A VOLUNTEER for Barnsley Hospital who spent 93 days as a patient in its intensive care unit has been honoured at the hospital's annual awards night.
Stuart Steele, 66, was presented with the Lesley Lee Patient Experience Award at the ceremony, which celebrates the hard work and dedication of its staff and volunteers.
On the night, Stuart, of Silkstone Common, told the story of how he became critically ill in 2011 and needed round-the-clock care on the hospital's unit.
When he was finally well enough to go home after three months, staff applauded him off the ward.
Stuart felt he needed to 'give something back' and now offers his time freely to help the unit and its patients, providing practical and emotional support.
Chairman Stephen Wragg said: "This was a great night and we all really enjoyed meeting together to share our appreciation of our colleagues at the hospital and the fantastic work they are putting in all year round for patients, staff and visitors."
