'Dedicated...larger than life' consultant has resuscitation training centre named in his memory

10.02.2025

A resuscitation training centre, championed by a respected paediatric consultant has been officially renamed in his memory.

Dr Nick Nelhans was described as a “larger than life character” by former colleagues at a ceremony marking the naming of The Nick Nelhans Resuscitation Training Unit, in Glan Clwyd Hospital, on Tuesday, February 4.

A respected consultant paediatrician since April 2001, Nick worked at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. Along with his wife Fiona, an associate specialist in the anaesthetics team on the same site, he was a fierce advocate for resuscitation training and was instrumental in gaining the space for the resuscitation team’s new home.

The official opening was carried out by BCUHB’s chair Dyfed Edwards, who paid tribute to Nick’s work and his legacy.

Dyfed Edwards said: “We should all be grateful for what Nick did and we stand here today because of his efforts. I think what we can see is a legacy which is here for future staff, driven by Dr Nelhans. He clearly had a passion and drive to ensure there were the best possible facilities for such a life-saving service.”

Resuscitation services manager, Sarah Bellis, fondly remembered Nick on the day he received his posthumous recognition.

She said: “He’s very missed by all of us. We are really proud to realise the creation of the resuscitation training unit that Nick and the whole team had worked so hard for.

“It will benefit our colleagues and patients by providing onsite training for all levels of resuscitation courses and allowing the resuscitation services team to be present on site and available when needed.”

Nick was described as a huge support to the resuscitation service and its team members after becoming clinical director more than 10 years ago. His “second to none”, relaxed and inclusive teaching style showcased a natural gift for putting candidates at ease.

Nick and his wife Fiona would often take advanced resuscitation training sessions for staff. Underlining his humour and approachable nature, he would often conduct them while sporting his infamous Bristol stool chart t-shirt, among many others. He certainly knew how to break the ice.

Fiona Nelhans attended the ceremony with their son Andrew, a medical student who travelled up especially from Swansea University. She was proud her husband’s name would be associated with the unit.

She said: “It is very emotional but it’s absolutely lovely. Nick fought long and hard to get a training facility here. It is lovely to be here and see it come to fruition and see his legacy living on in that way.”

In addition to his clinical work in paediatrics and his support and guidance of the resuscitation team, Nick also volunteered to go on charity medical missions to Africa, along with colleagues from across the Health Board and beyond.

One of those colleagues, Nicola Tanner, told the Royal Colleagues of Surgeons’ Dispatches magazine in 2015 how their trip to Ethiopia had “renewed her appreciation for the NHS”. She added: “Nick Nelhans and Liz Bailey undertook several Paediatric Basic Life Support sessions, training more than 50 midwives and doctors.”

Sadly, Nick became ill in 2020 and was unable to continue in his role as clinical director. Paediatric consultant Dr Liz Richards volunteered to fill the breach and has now take on the role of clinical director, much to the appreciation of the team.

Dr Nick Nelhans passed away at his home on October 19, 2021. Although he may not still physically be here, his presence is still felt by his former colleagues.

“The Nick Nelhans Resuscitation Training Unit is named in memory of Nick,” said Sarah Bellis. “It’s a tribute to his dedication, hard work and support, as well as his determination to secure us the training space we so desperately needed. Thank you Nick for all you did. We will be forever grateful to you and you’ll be forever remembered.”

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