Young patients become trainee biomedical scientists for the day at Morriston Hospital

Two children became trainee biomedical scientists for the day when they visited Morriston Hospital to find out what happens to their blood samples.

Lexi Hughes and Jack Stuart joined up with the laboratory medicine team during National Healthcare Science Week to see the machines and meet the scientists who test their blood.

Lexi, 11, and Jack, six, require frequent blood tests to monitor their medical conditions.

Their visit came via the Harvey’s Gang charity, which was set up in memory of leukaemia patient Harvey Baldwin who was interested in the process of his blood samples being analysed.

The pair were given a full tour of the laboratory as they learned all about the work involved in processing blood samples.

The experience provided them with an insight into the world of biomedical science, as they followed the journey a sample takes after it leaves the arm, and explained the extended time it takes some results to be returned.

Susan Hyatt, laboratory medicine training manager, said: “We were delighted to welcome Lexi, Jack and their families to laboratory medicine as members of Harvey’s Gang to celebrate National Healthcare Science Week.

“We look forward to them becoming biomedical scientists of the future!”

Susan said that the visit had also taught herself and her staff a lesson.

“Our Harvey’s Gang visit has motivated all laboratory medicine staff to focus on understanding the needs of the patient alongside the service we provide.

“We hope to welcome more Harvey’s Gang members in the future,” she added.

(Lead image: Swansea Bay NHS)