Junior doctor Sara Otung has taken a break from her usual duties in acute medicine to star in the play Nye alongside renowned actor Michael Sheen. The play tells the origin story of the NHS and has left some of her NHS colleagues moved to tears.
Growing up just miles away from where Aneurin Bevan, the architect of the NHS, was raised, Dr. Otung was surprised to learn about the state of healthcare in the UK before the NHS was established in 1948. She was shocked to discover the lack of access to healthcare, especially for women, and the struggles families faced in prioritizing healthcare for the breadwinner.
Despite her medical background, Dr. Otung is no stranger to acting, having participated in musical theatre productions during her time at Birmingham University. During the Covid pandemic, she found solace in performing and decided to pursue acting alongside her medical career.
Starring in Nye with Michael Sheen has been a transformative experience for Dr. Otung, who plans to continue acting while working as a doctor. She believes that understanding the origins of the NHS has made her more passionate about its future and the importance of not taking it for granted.
As the production comes to an end, Dr. Otung will return to her full-time job in acute medicine, feeling positive about balancing both her medical and acting careers. Her experience in Nye has reinforced her dedication to the NHS and its vital role in society.
