The British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) is delighted to share the news that one of our longstanding members, Ms Hannah Crane, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the NHS and voluntary work in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List.
Ms Crane, a Clinical Scientist, was recognised for her contribution to healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as in her wider experience within the NHS. Her achievements include:
- In the 'first wave' of the pandemic, Hannah was an early volunteer to work at the NHS Nightingale hospital at the ExCeL centre working directly with COVID-19 patients. Hannah undertook shifts on a rota until the hospital was stood down, all in her own time whilst working her normal 'day job'
- As the pandemic continued, Hannah volunteered within Barts Health NHS Trust to undertake additional shifts (i.e. on top of her day job) in the intensive care unit to assist those teams as a clinical support assistant. Putting herself on the front line, utilising her medical background but also taking a 'step down' in terms of professional level demonstrates Hannah's willingness to serve and her deep humility
- Alongside volunteering in intensive care, Hannah has also volunteered on her days off as a vaccinator, again at the London ExCeL centre as NHS staff
Outside of the NHS, Hannah's fundraising efforts have spanned the last 2 decades. As a teenager, she fundraised for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and supported Cancer Research events through the Cleveland Army Cadet Force. At university, she led the Leeds University Women's Hockey Club, facilitating over £7,000 for charities such as SUDEP and local Leeds charities, as an individual she has undertaken challenges such as Swimathon 5km, and the London - Brighton cycle for charities such as Marie Curie and the Alzheimer’s Society.
As a junior cardiac physiologist at The James Cook University Hospital, Hannah organized a charity ball that raised an impressive £13,000 for the South Cleveland Heart Fund. Additionally her humanitarian efforts extended globally, including volunteering with BSE colleagues in South Africa, delivering vital heart screenings to children and coordinated donations of hundreds of football kits. Furthermore, she contributed to charitable housing projects in Romania, assisting some of the country's most disadvantaged communities.
In support of the nomination, Dr Nolan Stain, Lead Principal Clinical Scientist at Barts Health NHS Trust, said “Hannah cares deeply for the patients and staff of the NHS and has been an example of selfless commitment to the country's response to the Covid-19 pandemic. She has done so following significant service to her community and is a worthy candidate for recognition by a national award honour. I have no hesitation in supporting such a nomination.”
Professor Dan Augustine, President of the BSE said, “We are delighted to see Hannah recognised in this way. She is a fantastic ambassador, not only for echocardiography but also for all NHS staff. Hannah gives her time willingly to so many groups and projects so we are extremely grateful that she also makes time to sit on the BSE Education Committee. I’d like to congratulate Hannah on this well-deserved award.”
Ms Crane said, “I am deeply honoured to accept the British Empire Medal. This accolade is a testament to the unwavering dedication and extraordinary resilience of my peers, colleagues, and the wider NHS workforce, who have tirelessly protected and cared for our patients during challenging times. I am profoundly grateful and committed to continuing to provide compassionate care.”