Jenny says farewell to Nursing after 51 years’ service in the NHS
A long serving nurse from Lichfield is finally hanging up her uniform after a staggering 51 years.
Jenny Heritage, 69, from Burntwood is looking forward to relaxing and taking life at her own speed once she retires.
Jenny qualified as a Nurse after she completed her training in 1971. After this, she went on to be a Theatre Sister until 1979.
Jenny said: “In 1979, I took ten years out to look after both of my children – I then returned back to a new position at Samuel Johnson Community Hospital working in the Outpatients Department as the hours suited me really well.
“I thought I’d hate the role what with coming from theatres, but I’ve actually thoroughly enjoyed it and have never changed roles again since I started here in 1989.”
Over the years, Jenny has had a specialist interest in Rheumatology, she said: “It’s been really interested to see the advances in practice for Rheumatology patients. We no longer see the patients we used to see because of such amazing medical advancements.
“Another thing I’ve seen change throughout the years is all of the technology – I’ve never been the strongest with technology and all the changes that come to healthcare, but the team have always helped me when I have found it challenging!”
Jenny officially retires from her role on Wednesday, 23 March. When asked how it felt to be leaving after such a long time within the NHS, she said: “I’m ready to leave, now is my time. All my colleagues are absolutely brilliant – I appreciate them all. I shall miss them greatly. They’ve been a great support over the years – I’ll certainly keep in touch.
“I’m looking forward to my retirement. I’m going to be taking life at my own pace and giving back to my local community by volunteering in a day centre for those living with dementia.”
Sister Stephanie Hulme said: “The thought of Jenny leaving makes me very emotional. She is a very special colleague who has made a big difference to the Outpatients Department at Samuel Johnson Community Hospital. The corridors will be incredibly quiet without Jenny’s singing and humming. We wish her all the best and hope she enjoys her retirement thoroughly.”
Another colleague said: “Jenny’s devotion to her duties and the kindness she has shown to everyone is a testament to the wonderful person she is.
“Work has never been just about work for Jenny, it was all about taking care of everyone around her. Everyone in the Outpatients Department Team wants to thank Jenny for her dedication, commitment, and humble demeanour. She is an absolute credit to the NHS and she should be extremely proud of her service.”