Guy’s and St Thomas’ honours former Chief Nurse

A portrait of Dame Eileen Sills has been unveiled at Guy’s and St Thomas’, where she served as Chief Nurse for 15 years.

The painting by Alex Rooney was commissioned to recognise, honour and celebrate the outstanding contribution that Eileen made as the Trust’s Chief Nurse in the service of its patients and staff.
  
Eileen stepped down as Chief Nurse in August 2020 having been in the role since 2005. She attended the unveiling with her family and friends, as well as colleagues past and present from Guy’s and St Thomas’.

Sir Hugh Taylor, Chair at Guy's and St Thomas', said: “Eileen touched the lives directly and indirectly of thousands upon thousands of patients and their families. She was a role model for all nurses – indeed for all clinicians and health workers.  

“Eileen led us through times of crisis, from terrorist incidents to the pandemic, and transformed the care we provide for patients with dementia. She took her senior colleagues back to the front line and encouraged nurses from the front line to become senior nurse leaders in this organisation and beyond.  

“This is a great portrait – in honour of a truly great person.”

Dame Eileen Sills said: “This is a very humbling experience, and I am grateful to the Trust and the staff who work within it that allowed me to do the job in the way I always thought it should be done. I had an amazing 15 years at the Trust, all I can say is thank you.”

The portrait will be on display in Governors’ Hall at St Thomas’ Hospital. Its commission was funded by the generous support of Guy’s & St Thomas’ Foundation. The portrait will be part of their arts and heritage collection which is used to enhance healthcare settings for patients, staff and visitors.