A BARNSLEY Hospital nurse who inspired others with his tribute to his fellow NHS workers has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award.
When the country went into its first lockdown, David Bissell, a lead nurse from Dodworth, created a portrait that symbolises all of the NHS workers across the borough.
The 54-year-old was inspired to paint the portrait after the efforts made by key workers during the coronavirus outbreak.
The painting, which got an overwhelmingly positive response online, has boosted the morale of those on his wards and other patients during the pandemic.
David said: “My painting is an amalgamation of all the nurses in intensive care who I have the pleasure of working with.
“I was inspired by my amazing colleagues and those working on the frontline to create the painting I wanted to donate it to the intensive care unit at our hospital.
“I’ve always splashed paint about, I used to paint a lot years ago but recently I have picked the paint brush up again.
“Painting, for me, is a chance to take a breather in an unprecedented time.”
David has been working on the frontline throughout the year, and has found things incredibly challenging but believes it’s important to remain positive.
“This lockdown has been more difficult than we could have anticipated. We’re really stretched to our limits.
“It’s the amazing team that keep me going during the tough time at work. The patients are the reason we do this.
“That’s what inspired the artwork and I’m thrilled that people are still thinking of it.”
David’s hardwork has landed him a nomination in this year’s Proud of Barnsley awards in the Hospital Hero category.
Upon hearing the news, David added: “I’m gobsmacked about the nomination. It’s totally unexpected but I’m really thrilled.
“At this time, I’m thinking of the families of the patients who have lost their lives this year.”
