It has been a busy time for retirements in the Emergency Department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital with four members of staff leaving after a total of almost 100 years of service.
Derek Lees worked in the department as a nurse for 20 years, first at Stirling Royal Infirmary before moving across to Forth Valley Royal Hospital. At school he planned to become an archaeologist but decided to study horticulture at college. He worked in botanical gardens, a tree nursery and the University of Stirling before switching to a career in nursing where his first post was in stroke rehabilitation. Derek was nominated as an exceptional mentor by students on numerous occasions.
Heather Hutchison worked in Stirling Royal Infirmary as a staff nurse before deciding to train as an Emergency Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her whole time within ED she had no sick leave and was a consummate professional who quietly beavered away to provide expert care for people with minor injuries. Her colleagues hope she will continue to support the Department in the future via the Staff Bank.
Christine Brotherson started in X-ray at Falkirk and District Royal Infirmary and then became a staff nurse in Falkirk before training to work as an Emergency Nurse Practitioner. She then decided to focus her remaining career on being a Team lead within ED ensuring her shifts were run with military precision. All who worked with her appreciated her direct manner and were in no doubt as to who was in charge!
Anne Finlay started out working in Falkirk and District Royal Infirmary before moving to Forth Valley Royal Hospital. Fondly referred to as ‘wee Anne,’ she was one of the hardest working healthcare support workers within ED always ensuring the place was ship shape. She also had a knack of being able to placate and de-escalate patients under the influence of alcohol with good natured banter, and had a caring and supportive way with children and their families.
We will miss them all but would like to wish them long and happy retirements.
Photo caption – Derek Lees (back row) Christine Brotherson (middle row – 2nd left) Heather Hutchison (middle row – 4th left) Heather Hutchison, Anne Finlay (front row – first left)
