Cheers for Dr Choopong who scoops RJAH Stars Award

The first Anaesthetic Fellow to be part of the team at Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital has been awarded the monthly RJAH Stars Award. 

Dr Choopong Luansritisakul joined The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital back in October 2022 from Bangkok, where he trained in anaesthesia before completing a two-year fellowship in chronic pain and five years as a junior consultant. 

He was nominated by two members of the Research Team – Barbara Linklater-Jones, Research Nurse; and Sara Owen, Research Project Manager – who praised Dr Choopong for his support during two anaesthetic studies.The nomination was also supported by Dr Mel Bloor, Consultant Anaesthetist and Principal Investigator for both studies. 

Barbara said: “Choopong has supported us fully, both in setting up and running two anaesthetic studies.  

“He went above and beyond what we all expected, and with such grace and professionalism to both our patients and the Research Team.” 

Sara added: “He is an absolute credit to the medical profession and an all-around delightful human being. 

“Choopong will be returning to Thailand soon, and he deserves this award before leaving Team RJAH.” 

While at RJAH, Dr Choopong has been gaining valuable experience in regional anaesthesia alongside completing a Surgery MCh at Edge Hill University. 

He said: “This was a complete surprise and I want to thank everybody who nominated me. The Research Team is amazing and they have been really good to work with. 

“I also want to thank the Anaesthetic Department. My mentors Dr John and Dr Bloor have been really good with me and nothing has been too much trouble. I asked them if I could get involved in these research studies and they were generous enough to allow it.” 

Dr Choopong leaves RJAH in October but will be spending two months at Tameside Hospital in Ashton-under-Lyne before returning to his native Thailand. 

He was presented his award by Stacey Keegan, Chief Executive, consisting of a keepsake certificate, vouchers, and box of chocolates donated by the League of Friends. 

Stacey said: “It was clear in the short space of time I spent with the Research Team just how valued Dr Choopong is, and the impact he has made in his role. 
 
“The whole department turned out for his presentation, including several colleagues who could not be in the room but joined us on Microsoft Teams. I think that speaks volumes. 
 
“I was proud to be able to present him our Stars award for August and wish him all the best for his future career, wherever that may take him.”