Rosemary Booth, our COPE (Community Orthopaedic Project in Essex) team lead, retired last week after working with us for more than 36 years.

During an emotional farewell celebration with current and former colleagues, Rosemary was joined by our Chief Executive, Matthew Trainer, and Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Graham Clegg, who presented her with thank you cards and an award.

Rosemary, originally from New Zealand, came over to the UK to complete her orthopaedic training at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH), where she spent four years before joining Oldchurch Hospital in 1987.

During her time with us, Rosemary has had many achievements, including getting a first class nursing degree in professional nursing studies, expanding the COPE team, and helping us reduce our waiting lists through projects such as the ‘Bones R Us’ week.

Rosemary said: “My proudest moment has to be the way the team worked throughout the Covid pandemic, or when our team received the Outstanding Excellence Award for Elective Recovery. We were working so hard after the pandemic to help reduce waiting lists.”

With her retirement, Rosemary is looking forward to taking some time out, planning a trip back to New Zealand, and even starting to learn Italian!

Rosemary said: “Although I’m going to miss the team incredibly, I am excited to see what is round the corner for me, even if I’m not sure what that is yet!

“Throughout my career I have always wanted to help and make a difference for patients, to be an advocate for them, and to be part of a team who provides great care – that’s what it’s all about; making a difficult time easier and making sure patients know they’re supported.

“In the NHS, we’re all working towards the same goal. It’s been a privilege to work in a trauma and orthopaedics team that values each other and keeps our patients at the focus, despite times often being tough. I’m so grateful for the support, encouragement and kindness I have received from so many throughout my time here.”