Bradford NHS Breast Care Nurses Retire After 90+ Combined Years of Service
Two senior nurses, Mandy Blackburn and Kath Kitchen, are retiring from Bradford Teaching Hospitals, marking the end of an era with their combined service of more than 90 years to the NHS. As Breast Care Nurse Specialists, they have provided critical advice and support to thousands of women and some men throughout their breast cancer treatment journeys.
Mandy Blackburn's Nursing Journey
Mandy Blackburn began her nursing career in 1981, training across various hospitals in the Bradford district before completing her midwifery training. She worked in gynaecology and later advanced to ward manager at St Luke’s Hospital’s surgical unit. In 2004, she found her true calling as a Breast Care Nurse, joining the Trust’s Breast Care Unit at the Dales Suite in the Horton Wing, where she has remained ever since.
Reflecting on her career, Mandy said, "My passion has always been in women’s health, so when the opportunity arose to join the breast team, I knew I had found my home." She added that her dedication to cancer care was inspired by her son Tom, who underwent chemotherapy as a teenager and is now a healthy adult. "I saw the difference that dedicated support made to our family, and this shaped my desire to provide that care to others," she explained.
Kath Kitchen's Career Path
Kath Kitchen started as an enrolled nurse in elderly care at St James’ Hospital in Leeds in 1979. She later worked as a district nurse in the community and became a staff nurse in 1990, serving across various wards at Seacroft Hospital. After roles in acute general surgery and St James’ A&E’s rapid response team, she became a Breast Care Nurse at Leeds General Infirmary in 2006, joining Mandy at the Dales Suite in 2013.
Kath shared, "Several women I have met have left a huge mark on my life because of their fortitude and positivity." She emphasized the importance of compassion and going the extra mile for patients, saying, "I feel humbled and privileged for the career I have loved through all its ups and downs."
Impact and Legacy
Both nurses have played an invaluable role in the breast care multi-disciplinary team, which includes consultants, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. Clinical Lead for Breast Cancer, Surgeon Fiona Langlands, praised them, stating, "Mandy and Kath are irreplaceable. Their knowledge, experience, and work ethic have had a profound impact on thousands of women and families."
Breast cancer patient and campaigner Cllr Allison Coates, diagnosed twice over 33 years, highlighted Mandy’s exceptional care. "Mandy’s dedication is nothing short of exceptional. She always makes time for her patients, no matter the hour," she said.
Sue Depledge, Treasurer of Bosom Friends Charity, commended Kath, noting, "Kath is a shining example of a true breast care nurse, always going the extra mile for her patients."
Retirement Plans
Mandy and Kath will retire on April 4. Mandy looks forward to spending more time with her family, including her 14-month-old grandson Sid, crafting, and walking in the Yorkshire Dales with her husband Kevin. Kath plans to perfect her garden, socialize with friends, travel, and enjoy well-earned rest. The two friends, who live just 10 minutes apart in Leeds, intend to meet regularly.
Chief Nurse Professor Karen Dawber extended the Trust’s gratitude, saying, "Mandy and Kath are truly outstanding nurses who have touched and made a difference to so many lives. We wish them a long, happy, and healthy retirement."
