Sensing Spaces of Healthcare

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Memory #14

I remember… Waiting to hear the results of my partner’s breast cancer test … exploring the free lending library in the lobby of the hospital. The smell of well-loved books in this little alcove for a few minutes comforted me by taking over the usual hospital smells. I dropped a pound coin into the donation slot, then took with me a hefty paperback of Margaret Atwood’s Oryx & Crake. The test was good news, so now that book is too.

Other similar cards…

Memory #65

From 2022

I remember… My husband was in hospital for 6 months, the food was good – he liked it very much, particularly their lasagne. The staff were wonderful. As a visitor I also remember the smell of the food – delicious! I would walk up the corridor and know they’d had their lunch.

Memory #47

From 1949

I remember… I had an adenoid operation to remove them in London – Christmas Day, 1949 – I remember the smell of chloroform! I was only 6 years old. It wasn’t an unpleasant smell, it was actually quite refreshing though the mask was scary.

Memory #50

I remember… The smell of coffee on the breath of my exhausted family members who took it in turns to visit me or stay with me overnight.

Memory #53

From 1957/58

I remember… I was 2 … the cot next door threw their nappy into my cot. It didn’t smell though!

Memory #56

From 2022

I remember… I like the smell of lavender, my perfume Charlie, and my favourite food is jacket potato with cheese & beans