Reflections on 2023
A message from the Station Manager.
As we approach the end of the year, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all the incredible individuals, businesses, and organisations that have been the backbone of Inverness Hospital Radio throughout 2023.
The unwavering support has allowed us to continue spreading joy, hope, and positivity through the power of music and meaningful conversations. Together, we've made a real impact in our community, touching the lives of those who need it most.
Whether you tuned in, donated, volunteered, or shared our mission with others, you played a crucial role in our year's success. Your generosity has enabled us to help important programs, support local causes, and bring joy to countless people. You are the driving force behind our mission to make a difference, and your kindness has shown us the true meaning of community, we are incredibly grateful to have you by our side.
As we bid farewell to an eventful 2023, we reflect on the incredible moments that defined our year—a tapestry woven with your support, resilience in challenges, and shared triumphs, as well as a year of transformation, and, unfortunately, profound loss.
We kicked off 2023 on a high note, bringing home 2 Hospital Broadcast Association Awards that recognised the dedication and passion of our presenters. Your support catapulted us to new heights, and these accolades belong to each and every one of you who make up the heartbeat of IHR. We wish our volunteers who have entered for next year's awards the best of luck.
Bringing incredible entertainment to the participants and spectators at the Highland Cross, we experienced the beauty of endurance and determination. You painted a vivid picture of community spirit, making the Highland Cross broadcast a testament to the strength that lies with us all. Thanks to Ally, Tom, Karen, Helen and Ben for taking on this event.
Transforming the magical weekend of Bella to radio where we immersed ourselves in the music and charity that defines this extraordinary event. Thank you to Terry, Iain and Bill who were our Team Bella all weekend, and of course, thank you to the team who run Bella every year.
Our outside broadcasts took us to the Parkinson's Walk in Inverness, where we witnessed the strength and unity of a community dedicated to making a difference. Thank you @Parkinson's UK in Scotland for letting us be a part of raising awareness and support for Parkinson's research. Thank you to Tom and Philip for taking this event on.
The thrill of the Highland Hospice Bungee Jump resonated in our broadcast as brave souls took a leap of courage, all for a cause close to our hearts. Even though the event was cut short, we were very grateful for being a part of everyone's day. Thank you to Tom, Ben, Helen Terry and Philip for being our broadcast team and @HighlandHospice for letting us be a part of it.
Our mission to enhance your listening experience led us to embark on a significant studio revamp. While the process has been more challenging than anticipated, your patience and support have been our guiding light. From technical hurdles and unexpected delays, every obstacle has been met with determination and a shared commitment to creating a space that resonates with the spirit of our community. A big thank you to Ally, our technical Co-Ordinator, Tom, Ben, @Media Pro Scotland Ltd, and the team at @broadcastradio for being a part of a very challenging project.
Amidst these adventures, we are very happy to announce that our ward visitors are allowed back into the wards to collect song requests and messages, in line with current health and safety regulations. Our volunteer presence and shared moments are helping bridge the gap, bringing comfort and smiles to those on the wards. Thank you to Atholl who has been working hard assisting new ward visitors as well as ensuring Hospedia monitors are up and running for our patients.
In the midst of our charity endeavors, we faced the heartbreaking loss of Kevin McLoughlin, a cherished member of our presenter family. He played a vital role at our station, contributing his passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to our cause. Kevin's absence is deeply felt, and we will treasure the positive impact he had on our station and in the hearts of those who knew him.
To each and every volunteer who has lent their time, skills, and passion to IHR, you have been the catalyst for positive change. Your dedication to our cause has made a profound impact on the lives we touch, and we are immensely grateful for your unwavering support.
Wishing you all a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of community. Here's to a new year filled with hope, harmony, and the shared belief that together, we can make patient life at NHS Highlands a better place, one show at a time.
With thanks,
Shannon Marvell
Station Manager
