Have you, or anyone you love been treated at hospital and feel someone there deserves a special thank you?

The Medway Messenger has once again teamed up with Medway Maritime for the Hospital Hero Award, giving readers the chance to nominate a member of staff or volunteer who has gone that extra mile.

The hospital has been under the spotlight since being placed in special measures 18 months ago, but often the picture painted by patients is one of staff doing the very best they can in the most difficult circumstances.

Now is the time to recognise these employees who really make a difference.

From cleaners and porters to tea trolley volunteers, midwives, doctors or surgeons – if you feel someone has done their job well, let us know. We want to hear from anyone who feels someone at the hospital has gone above and beyond the call of duty to deliver outstanding care.

Last year a doctor described by grateful mums as “one in a million” was the Hospital Hero winner. Ranjit Akolekar, a fetal medicine consultant, was one of 11 nominees.

Dr Akolekar was initially put forward by Rebecca Woodhouse, from Rochester, after he helped her through a double tragedy. In 2011, her son Riley was born with polycystic kidney disease, a rare genetic condition for which there is no cure. He lived for just 27 minutes.

Following two miscarriages, Rebecca fell pregnant again in 2013 but tests revealed her daughter had the same condition.

Dr Akolekar supported her every step of the way when she decided to continue with the pregnancy. Star was born at 38 weeks but died a few hours later.

Rebecca said: “Dr Ranjit is a kind man and his explaining of things was so understanding. He was so supportive and we got the best care he promised we would. He is one in a million.”

Rebecca’s nomination prompted other grateful mums to also get in contact with the awards team. In total, he received six separate nominations.

To nominate this year, write to: Hospital Hero, Medway Messenger, Medway House, Ginsbury Close, Sir Thomas Longley Road, Medway City Estate, Strood, Kent, ME2 4DU or email hospitalhero@thekmgroup.co.uk

Include a short description of why you think they deserve the award and what department they work in, as well as your address and phone number.

The closing date is Monday, April 13.

The winner will be announced at the Medway NHS Foundation Trust’s annual awards night later this year.