‘Heart of Gold’ mural unveiled at Ulster Hospital honouring organ donors

The unique ceramic artwork, created by local artist Diane McCormick in partnership with staff and patients, serves as a lasting tribute to those who have given the gift of life through organ donation.

The mural features delicate Forget Me Not flowers representing a promise that donors will never be forgotten, a striking gold heart at its centre symbolising the donor’s selfless generosity, a flourishing garden reflecting renewal and hope, and butterflies representing transformation and new life.

South Eastern Trust, Organ Donation Specialist Nurse, Katie Anderson, said: “It was very important to us that this piece felt personal and unique to the South Eastern Trust.

"At the heart of the mural is the gold heart, representing the donor, the true centre of everything.

“We are incredibly proud of how it has come together, it is a beautiful and meaningful way to honour our donors.”

Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Dr Chris Gowers, added: “Organ donation is one of the most selfless gifts a person can give.

"In Intensive Care, we are constantly humbled by the courage and generosity of families who, during the most devastating moments of their lives, choose to honour their loved one’s wishes or think of others in need.

“This artwork is a touching and lasting way to recognise that generosity. It also highlights how important it is for people to make their wishes known. Registering a decision and just as importantly, having that conversation with loved ones, can make an incredibly difficult time a little clearer for families. That is what we are striving to encourage.”

Assistant Director of Anaesthetics, Theatres and ICU, Jeni Hamilton commented: “This artwork stands as a quiet but powerful reminder of the extraordinary kindness shown by individuals and families at the most difficult moments of their lives.

"Each element of the mural reflects not only loss, but also hope, courage and renewal.

“We are immensely proud to display this in a space where it can be seen every day, by staff who witness these journeys first-hand, by patients and families walking through our hospital and by the wider community.

"We hope it offers comfort to donor families, reassurance to those waiting for a transplant and inspiration for others to consider the difference they too could make.”

Lead Nurse, Northern Ireland Organ Donation Service, Nisa Francis, added: “This is one of the most beautiful ways to recognise the generosity and selflessness of our donors.

"It reflects the deep and lasting bond that is created through donation, a connection between donor families and recipients that endures far beyond that moment.

“Every detail within the mural represents the human side of this journey, from the courage of families at a time of immense grief, to the life-saving and life-changing impact donation has on recipients.

“We are incredibly proud of the strength and compassion shown by donor families and this artwork is a fitting tribute to their loved ones and their extraordinary legacy.”