A DEDICATED nurse is saying a fond farewell to Inverclyde Royal Hospital after a 46-year career.
Mary Noone, 64, has been serving the Inverclyde community since 1985, after starting her nursing career back in 1976.
The Greenock resident has worked across various wards throughout her career and joined the fracture clinic in 2000, where she has remained for the last 22 years.
Over the years, Mary has witnessed many changes, but one thing has remained consistent — the sense of community at the IRH.
Mary said: “It will be very strange to be retired. I have always worked, and even when I had my daughter 28 years ago, I ended up only deciding to take three months off.
“I will miss my working routine, and the patients we work with too. I’ll really miss all of the team here at the IRH too. Over the years there have been a lot of changes but at the IRH there has always been a real community feel, everyone looks out for each other.
“One thing I know my colleagues won’t miss though is my singing!”
Mary celebrated her last day at the IRH on Thursday with colleagues and friends. And while she has mixed emotions about leaving, her IRH legacy will continue through daughter Catriona Stevens.
Mary added: “My daughter Cat Stevens also works at the IRH too, in the x-ray department, so it’s nice to still have one of the family working with such a great team. Although, despite her name, she can’t sing either!
“I’ll miss everyone but I must say I’m looking forward to not switching on the alarm clock every morning. I took up walking during the covid pandemic so I’m looking forward to doing more of that and spending time with my family and friends.
“I’m also looking into perhaps doing some volunteering at a local care home.”
Louise Watson, site lead at Inverclyde Royal Hospital, said: “We would like to thank Mary for everything she has done for the patients, community and staff at Inverclyde Royal Hospital during her career.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with Mary and the entire team will miss her. After 46 years of incredible service, we hope she enjoys a well-earned break.”
