Coventry and Warwickshire Hospitals fund-raiser marks anniversary of world's first Covid vaccine - The Rugby Observer

Coventry and Warwickshire Hospitals fund-raiser marks anniversary of world's first Covid vaccine

Rugby Editorial 8th Dec, 2021   0

THE FIRST anniversary of the world’s first Covid-19 vaccination – which was administered at University Hospital Coventry (UHC) one year ago today (Wednesday December 8) – is being marked by a fund-raising initiative for UHC and Rugby’s Hospital of St Cross.

This time last year, the world watched as Matron May Parsons administered the first Covid-19 vaccine to 90-year-old Margaret Keenan – but the vaccine wasn’t the only thing that caught people’s attention.

Margaret’s blue ‘Penguino’ t-shirt – the Christmas t-shirt of the University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire Charity, normally purchased by staff to wear on the wards – became an overnight global sensation.

Penguino gained popularity across the world and became a symbol of the joy and hope that the first vaccination brought.




Now, one year on, the charity has launched a new t-shirt for 2021 featuring the Penguino mascot plus some new friends.

To commemorate the anniversary of the first vaccine, staff are being encouraged to wear the t-shirt on December 8 – and again on December 10 to celebrate Christmas T-shirt Day.


UHCW Charity Director Jo O’Sullivan said: “We’re excited to share our 2021 Penguino and Friends Christmas T-shirt, proudly worn by our charity ambassadors Maggie Keenan and Matron May Parsons.

“All funds raised will make things better for staff, patients and their families over the Christmas period.”

Local business Uzin Utz UK is again supporting the charity by sponsoring this year’s t-shirt, as they did in 2020.

Managing Director Matthew Brown said: “The heroes at UHCW provide exceptional care and welfare for their patients. Our support over the last 18 months reflects our gratitude to their dedication and it is a privilege to sponsor the Christmas T-shirts again to commemorate their achievements.”

Wednesday December 8 is the anniversary of the first Covid-19 vaccine, dubbed International Penguino Day by the charity. Friday December 10 is UHCW Christmas T-shirt Day.

Visit www.uhcwcharity.org/shop to buy the 2020 and 2021 Penguino t-shirts for £10 each. All proceeds go towards UHC and St Cross.

Visit www.uhcwcharity.org for more information about the UHCW Charity.

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