HEALTHCARE heroes at Forth Valley Royal Hospital will remember all those who battles Covid-19 with a dedicated "Tree of Life".

The artwork has been installed on one of the full-length windows on Ward A31 last week following an initiative by staff.

There are around 100 green and amber leaves on the branches of the tree of life, the former colour representing those who have recovered and returned home.

The amber leaves are helping to remember the patients who sadly lost their lives.

Rosario Walshe, NHS Forth Valley's clinical ward manager, said: "At times, particularly in the beginning, it was pretty hard and I think staff have coped very well as a team.

"Many of our patients were extremely ill.

"It was harrowing and emotional but we pulled together and have been very supportive of each other.

"Our first patient was allowed a visit from her family which happened to take place on Mother's Day.

"They waved at her through the glass for what they thought would be the last time but miraculously she recovered and went home."

A31 was one of the designated coronavirus wards at the hospital where nurses and doctors hoped to acknowledge and remember all of the patients who have been cared for throughout the pandemic.

The clinical ward manager added: "We wanted to dedicate this tree to all of the people who have been affected, patients, their families, friends and loved ones.

"Covid-19 is something which will probably stay with people for years to come and this is one way that memories of this difficult time can be enshrined."

Throughout the crisis, staff had lined up to clap and say goodbye to patients who have recovered.

They will also continue to add leaves to the tree, although the number of patients admitted in recent weeks has fallen significantly – as has been reported in the Advertiser over the past month.