Celebrating Super Dads: Father's Day at GOSH
Father's Day is a time to celebrate and appreciate the incredible dads in our lives. While we often focus on celebrating fathers outside of work, it's equally important to acknowledge the remarkable super dads among our hospital staff.
These individuals go above and beyond, not only in caring for patients at GOSH but also in being exceptional fathers.
We proudly highlight four of our super dad staff members, whose dedication and love extend both to their families and the hospital community and hear more from them on how fatherhood influences them in everyday life. Great Ormond Street Hospital CEO Mat Shaw, also includes a Father's Day message.
Aboubakr
Patient Liaison Manager
Aboubakr says the most rewarding thing about being a father is "witnessing my children achieve the highest levels of education", reflecting the pride he feels in their accomplishments.
Becoming a father has profoundly changed Aboubakr as a person. He says having a happy and successful life for his children and his wife is all that matters to him.
"I try to give my children life advice from lessons I have learned in my life such as self-reliance, maintaining your health, and most importantly getting closer to God and maintaining a strong relationship with God."
Along the journey of fatherhood, Aboubakr has encountered various challenges. As his children grew up and their individual personalities began to show, he had to learn how to provide them with guidance that would help them navigate their lives and achieve success. Through patience, understanding, and wise advice, Aboubakr has overcome these challenges and guided his children on the right path.
Drawing from the lessons he has learned throughout his own life; Aboubakr
believes his shared faith with his children has helped guide them towards a fulfilling and purposeful journey.
"One of my most beloved habits is going with my family for Eid prayers, experiencing the joy of new Eid clothes and the atmosphere of togetherness at the mosque. We also enjoy going for walks, when I see my kids smile, I feel happy"
To all other fathers, Aboubakr offers valuable advice, "try to be friends with your children and not only guide them but also share a part of your lives with them, giving them a measure of freedom that does not harm them is also important. Most importantly, be a role model for your children."
Nahid
Scheduling Co-ordinator
As a father, Nahid finds immense joy and fulfilment in spending quality time with his children and creating lasting memories. Becoming a father has had a profound impact on Nahid's life, he says it has made him a more responsible individual and has given him a deeper appreciation for his own parents. Parenthood has a way of shaping our perspectives and priorities, like Nahid's experience.
"I encourage my girls to never give up and always strive for the best, teaching them the value of perseverance and ambition." - Nahid
Nahid and his children also share special traditions and activities. "Every Sunday, they enjoy going for hot chocolate at their local Costa. This small but meaningful tradition is something that they will always remember."
Nahid offers some valuable advice to other fathers like him. He emphasizes the importance of open communication with children and being both a friend and a father to them. By fostering an environment of trust and openness, fathers can build strong relationships with their children and support them in their journey.
Nahid's commitment to his role as a Scheduling Coordinator at our hospital is matched by his dedication as a loving father.
John
Scheduling Administrator
John finds the most rewarding aspect to be teaching his children the values of goodness.
Like any father, John has faced his share of challenges. He often found it difficult to balance the demands of work and family life, leaving little time for self-care. However, he has learned to overcome these challenges by managing his time effectively.
"Being a father makes me feel incredibly loved and blessed, it has shown me that unconditional love and joy comes from taking care of my children and guiding them to the right path."
John emphasises the value of honesty, treating others with respect, good manners, the importance of hard work, and the understanding that success is not always guaranteed. He also teaches them the significance of having a sense of responsibility and to care about others like yourself.
"Every Sunday we attend church service together, fostering their spiritual growth and strengthening our bond as a family."
John has a few words of advice that has helped him in his journey:
"Don't worry what others think of you, be responsible, always choose to be kind, learn how to forgive and be present in your children's lives."
Aboubakr, Matt, Nahid and John exemplify the dedication and love it takes to be exceptional dads. They prioritise their children's well-being and impart valuable life lessons. Through their shared faith, special traditions, and commitment to guiding their children, these super dads leave a lasting impact. On this special day, we honour and appreciate all fathers worldwide who inspire us with their unwavering love and devotion to their families and the hospital community.
Happy Fathers Day!