The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, visited Dalston Junction station today to launch the six new line names and colours being used across the London Overground network.
Geoff Coleman from the Mildmay Hospital represented the Mildmay Line which honours the small, charitable hospital in Shoreditch that has cared for Londoners over many years. It notably played a pivotal role in the HIV/AIDS crisis in the 1980s, which made it the valued and respected place it is for the LGBTQ+ community.
Princess Diana visited made 17 visits to the hospital in her lifetime, where she brought about profound change, breaking through the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS. Through her unwavering support and compassion, Princess Diana helped transform countless individuals affected by these conditions.
The Princess’ visits to Mildmay helped to raise awareness of the disease and its impact on individuals and families. She also helped to raise funds for the hospital, which allowed it to continue its work providing high-quality care to people living with HIV and AIDS.
Geoff Coleman, CEO of Mildmay Hospital, said: “We are deeply honoured that the London Overground Mildmay Line has been named in recognition of our hospital’s long-standing commitment to caring for London’s most vulnerable communities.
“This tribute reflects the heart of what Mildmay stands for -compassionate, inclusive care for all, especially during the HIV/AIDS crisis, and it carries our legacy of healing and hope into the future. We are proud to be part of this historic change to the capital’s transport network and look forward to continuing our work alongside the diverse communities of this great city.”