A nurse at the University Hospital of North Tees is today (7 October 2024) celebrating 50 years in the job.
Jean Angus, head of nursing education for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, began her career on 7 October 1974 at North Tees General Hospital as it was known then.
Spending the next five decades predominantly in surgery, Jean now uses her unmatched experience to help the next generation of nurses throughout their training.
Enthusiasm
Jean, 68, from Middlesbrough said: “50 years has gone by so quickly, I had no idea that I would still be working in the same hospital 50 years later!
“The hospital may have changed beyond recognition, but it is the people who I work with that have made it a difficult place to leave.
“I still have the same enthusiasm that I did when I first qualified. I am so lucky that I really love my job.
“I love being a nurse. It’s not what I do, it’s who I am.
“Looking back, it’s the people you care for and the people you work with that you remember the most. Over the last 50 years I think I have seen it all, but this job can still surprise you every day!
“Working with students at the beginning of their nursing careers is very rewarding.
“Nursing education has changed so much since 1974, but the patients are still the reason we all become nurses.”
Committed
Jean, whose experiences include serving in the Army reserves during the first Iraq War, has no plans to retire and remains committed to helping train future generations of nurses.
Jean commented: “I’ll retire when I stop enjoying the job so I have no plans to retire at all. There is still just too much to do.”
Ward matron Emma Watson said: “Jean is such a valuable asset and has been a shining star supporting our lovely students throughout their nursing journey from students and beyond qualification.
“Jean is always there and helps us with anything we reach out to her for.”
Emma and her colleagues in the responsive care group surprised Jean with flowers, gifts and treats to celebrate her selfless half decade of service to the NHS.