It is so lovely to see the signs of spring arriving in the West End, writes Dr Isabelle Cullen.
This year the sense of hope that comes with longer days and spring flowers blooming is more welcome than ever.
We have a beautiful camellia bush in the surgery garden at the entrance to the close at 1 Queensborough Gds.
My father, Dr Archie Cullen, bought it in the late 60s from a botanical garden which was closing in London.
He used to tell us about going to pick it up off a train in Central Station and planting it carefully in the best position.
The bush blooms around this time every year and he would always bring one flower home to celebrate.
As a GP I never fail to be amazed at the effects of spring on the health of the population.
It is usually very clear to see an improvement as we pull away from the dark winter’s bugs etc.
Most people feel better as the days lengthen and they can spend more time outside.
It seems very poignant this year after the restrictions of the last 12 months.
There are good reasons to be hopeful of course as the vaccine rollout continues and we see the benefits of lockdown in managing the pandemic.
This year the sense of hope that comes with longer days and spring flowers blooming is more welcome than ever
DR Isabelle Cullen
We continue to see patients as necessary at the surgery.
We are still speaking to everyone on the phone initially to ensure they get the most appropriate care.
Please do not be put off by this system of triage.
We have found it a very efficient way to run over the last year – ensuring that patients and staff alike are seen in as safe an environment as possible.
