Painting of St George's nurse lights up Oxford Street

An artist's picture of St George's staff nurse Sarah Franks lit up Oxford Street last Thursday as part of the #MAKEITBLUE campaign.

The oil painting of Sarah – who is based on Florence Nightingale ward at St George's Hospital – was created by artist Rebecca Wright (INSTAGRAM: @wrightartstudio) and is called 'Painting on a Smile'.

The #MAKEITBLUE campaign is a nationwide effort championed by businesses, as well as publicly funded organisations, to show gratitude and support for the NHS.

Sarah is pictured standing next to the large projection of the painting on Oxford Street last Thursday.

Sarah said: "It felt amazing – such an honour, and Rebecca is a friend as well. Covid-19 has been so tough for everyone, and gestures such as this make a big difference."

It's been a busy week for Sarah, who also received this message from a patient:

"Sarah Franks was extremely kind and helpful towards me. She always made me feel at home especially when I felt sad and low.

"She really went above and beyond to make my stay really stand out. I won't ever forget her kindness."

Ana Seco Ferreira Vaz, Matron at St George's, added: "Sarah is amazing, and we are all very proud of her and everything she does for all her patients and colleagues every day."

The picture of Sarah will appear on Oxford Street until the end of March, together with a picture of other NHS staff created by artists from across the country.

Well done Sarah!

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