A collection of poetry and stories by patients, staff and visitors to Galway University Hospitals called This Never Happened II was launched by poet Kevin Higgins recently.
This is the second collection of creative writing by patients in units 5 and 6 of Merlin Park University Hospital.
The creative writing programme at the hospital is now in its 10th year and continues to be facilitated by Writer in Residence Kevin Higgins who was appointed in 2007.
Arts director Margaret Flannery says Mr Higgins continues to “work his magic”. “He creates a welcoming space for participants to attend where he promotes a reflective space for individuals to explore their creativity. The result is this delightful collection of poetry and short stories.”
The arts programme at Merlin Park University Hospital forms an important part of the Galway University Hospital Arts Trust’s work in GUH.
Mr Higgins holds creative writing workshops in these schools based on works by patients in Units 5 and 6 and then in turn the children are invited to write poems which are read to the patients in Merlin Park. This has become a highlight of the year for the patients of these units.
The aim of the Galway University Hospitals Arts Trust is to support and enhance the patient environment in University Hospital Galway and Merlin Park University Hospital.
For further information on this project and or the arts programme at Galway University Hospitals contact Ms Flannery at (091 ) 544979 or email [email protected]
