Clinical Nurse Manager in Children's Diabetes, Sarah Schorah, retired last week after 37 years at CHFT. On Friday, her colleagues, patients and the families she's supported over the years all came together to wish her well.

Speaking about her career as a nurse, Sarah said: "I had always wanted to be a nurse as my mum was a Nursing Sister in the community, so nursing was a large part of my childhood.

"I began my training here in 1989, and became a Staff Nurse on the urology ward for two years after qualifying. However, my passion was for children's nursing, so I transferred to paediatrics. Whilst I was on the children's ward I would attend the activity weekends away with the children with diabetes, and the rest, as they say, is history.

"I started my role as a Paediatric Diabetes Specialist Nurse in February 2000. I have had so many memories that I will cherish, such as when the team gained national award nominations for their hard work, as well as attending the various activity events that are invaluable to the children, but also give parents a well-deserved break.

"I feel especially proud when patients, now in their 30s, or those that I currently look after, see me and thank me for everything that I have done for them. I have been honoured and privileged to try and help the children, young people and their families deal with this extremely challenging long term condition over the past 26 years. It really is the most beautiful job in the world, knowing you may have made a little difference to someone's life is priceless. 

"Seven years ago I became the manager for the team, and have been lucky to work with such an amazing, compassionate and dedicated colleagues. I will deeply miss all those I have worked with over the years, as I can honestly say everyone I have come across in CHFT have been such a pleasure to know.

"I am now ready though to hand over the helm of the ship, and know it will be in extremely safe hands."

Some of Sarah's colleagues and families of patients wanted to share their messages:

Parent and Patient Advocate in the Paediatric Diabetes Team, Amanda Grayson, said: "The day my son, Olly, was diagnosed over 14 years ago, Sarah appeared on the ward to meet us as a newly diagnosed family. With her wonderful smiley face and laughs, stories, optimism and positivity, I knew from that point onwards, that life would carry on - albeit in a different way - with such an amazing nurse to support us as a family. She told me I would become the "expert on my own child "... and I did.  So much so, that four years later I ended up applying for a job in the Team. Sarah has taught me personally and professionally that life moves on and becomes a new normal, and the joy and challenges of being able to support patients in a similar position and their families through the toughest of times."

Parent, Samantha, said: "Some people do a job, but you did so much more than that. Your compassion, patience and support helped us through some really difficult times, and we can never thank you enough. Retirement is so deserved, but you’ll be hugely missed."

Parent, Stacey, said: "Noah and I are absolutely devastated! You have gone above and beyond for us, and we will miss you so much. Your supportive words and encouragement have helped us through some really tough times, and we will be for ever grateful."

Parent, Sarah, said: "Sarah your smiling face was just about all that got Kadie and me through that first week.

"You’ve been a massive support to us over the years, and we’ll never forget what you have done for us."

Thank you Sarah, it's clear that your impact on our colleagues, patients and their families is innumerable. You will be greatly missed by all those lives you have helped.