Lead Colorectal Specialist Nurse, Paula Pickersgill, retires on Wednesday, after 21 years in the team.

Paula started her nursing career in 1986, training in Barnsley Hospital, before spending some time in the private sector.

Specialist Nurse, Michelle Speight, said: “Paula initially joined the Colorectal and Stoma Care Nursing Team at HRI for a two-year secondment and has been with the team for 21 years, eventually becoming the colorectal nurse lead. 

“She has been providing patients with support and valuable advice in the bowel dysfunction service for many years.

“Her dedication to the patients and their families will be sorely missed. Her loving care, genuine concern and overwhelming desire to make a difference is something we shall all strive to emulate.

“Paula will return to CHFT working in the Bowel Cancer Screening Team, where her years of experience will be of great value and benefit.

“We all wish her every happiness for the future.” 

Paula is looking forward to spending more time with her family, visiting Ireland, and continuing her passion for running with the Stainland Lions Running club (she’s pictured completing her first marathon in 2016) and walking her dog Ruby.