RIP Andy Hanson

In July 2018, RMN Andy Hanson got in touch with us, responding to a call we put out to hear from mental health nurses about their working lives and experiences.

Andy wrote us a wonderful piece about his nursing experiences. It forms a powerful and important testament about the work of mental health nurses. You can re-read it by clicking on this link. What strikes me on reading it again today is not only what a fresh and thoughtful piece it is, showing that change does happen and can involve both gain and loss, but also how consistent our best hopes and values have been over time against challenges that are often surprisingly constant, too. Andy shows that trying to understand mental health and mental health care is an inherently political task. I cannot recommend it enough. It has been read nearly 700 times, which suggests that it has been shared and appreciated by many.

Andy’s daughter, Rachel, has contacted the network to tell us that, sadly, her father has died following a long period of illness, with cancer. She has provided her email for anyone that would like to message her (at the bottom of this post). The funeral is tomorrow, and she can give details of that, for anyone who would like those.

I am confident that I can speak for the many readers of Andy’s piece in offering sincere condolences to Andy’s family and our appreciation for his example of a thoughtful and caring nursing life.

Best wishes to all,
Jonathan Gadsby

Rachel’s email: rach.hanson94@gmail.com