Doctor who treats seriously ill children awarded for ‘pioneering work’
A children’s doctor has been recognised for his “kindness” and “pioneering work” at an awards ceremony.
Dr Richard Chavasse, who has been a paediatric respiratory consultant at St George’s Hospital in Blackshaw Road, Tooting, since 2010, was awarded the national accolade at the WellChild Awards.
He said: “I feel honoured to be recognised by WellChild for this award, particularly as the nomination was supported by so many colleagues and families of our patients.
“I hope it reflects the great teamwork and care we try to provide for children with all types of respiratory illness in the hope that this minimises the impact on their lives.”
Dr Chavasse works within St George’s children’s services, which sees more than 130,000 visits from children every year.
Colleagues and families of children in his care described the doctor as “outstanding,” and someone who “works relentlessly” to provide the best possible care for children needing long-term ventilation and support with respiratory problems.
Dr Luci Etheridge, site chief medical officer at St George’s Hospital, said: “Having worked clinically with Dr Chavasse for over 10 years, I am delighted that he has been recognised with this award.
“His passion for his patient group and his pioneering work is an inspiration, particularly in launching our St George’s school emergency asthma bag scheme across Wandsworth and Merton.
“Congratulations Richard, and well deserved.”
The emergency asthma bag scheme at St George’s Hospital is just one of Dr Chavasse’s innovations.
A spokesman for St George’s hospital said that Mr Chavasse has “always gone the extra mile”, such as dropping equipment to a family who could not make it into hospital and working from home in his own time.
Under his leadership, the respiratory service at the hospital has expanded to care for children with complex respiratory needs, including children being treated for severe asthma, complications of cancer, and the impact of premature birth.
In his spare time, he has also raised more than £10,000 for charities to support children’s health charities.
He was also praised for his “kindness”, “empathy” and “determination to listen to children and make them feel important and valued” in nominations.
Pictured top: From left, patron Prince Harry with Richard Chavasse at the awards ceremony on Thursday (Picture: Andrew Higgins/Thousand Word Media)
