Bromborough medical workers wave goodbye

Mar 26 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Birkenhead News

THREE women who have devoted their lives to nursing and serving the public are retiring within weeks of each other.

Barbara Platt, 62, of Pensby, Pat Denbigh, 63, and Sue Johansen, 60, both of Bromborough, have given 52 years to Treetops Eastham Group Practice between them and many more to the NHS as a whole.

Barbara has nursed for 44 years and said the best part of her career has been meeting and helping people.

She said: “I retire on April 23, and my daughter Emma is due to give birth to my first grandchild on April 27 so I will have more time for them.

“I will also be volunteering at St John’s Hospice.”

Pat has worked as an administration manager for Treetops for 16 years and retired last Thursday.

She said: “I’ve been feeling excited and emotional. I have been here through many changes and think it’s now my time to go.

“My husband Tom is retiring in February so we will be travelling more as we have family all over the world.

“I am at a peak of health right now and want to use it for myself.”

Sue has been nursing at the practice for 18 years and is retiring on March 27.

She said: “I started in the NHS in 1965 as a cadet nurse. I always wanted to help people, which is what nursing is all about.

“Retiring is a natural progression for Barbara, Pat and I, and we are all starting a new chapter in our lives.

“I will miss my job but I feel retirement brings a sense of freedom.”

Dr Steve Williams from the practice who has worked, said: “Barbara, Pat and Sue have really worked really hard over the years to help make our practice very successful.

“I value their contribution.”