The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn has bid farewell to two of its most dedicated healthcare professionals, Chrissie Johnston and Lyn Jones, who together have clocked up an extraordinary 93 years of NHS service. Their retirements mark the end of an era for the hospital, where they have been instrumental in patient care and staff development.
Chrissie Johnston's 45-Year Journey
Chrissie Johnston, the site matron, retired at the start of July after 45 years in the health service. Her nursing career began with a childhood dream, leading her to train at Peterborough District Hospital and qualify as a registered general nurse in 1984. She joined The QEH as a staff nurse on Leverington Ward before moving to Marham Ward in 1988.
In 2007, Chrissie became the lead nurse for Hospital at Night, a pioneering service designed to ensure safe out-of-hours care. Her role expanded in 2015 when she took on the position of site matron, overseeing the growing night service alongside the clinical site team.
Lyn Jones's 48-Year Career
Lyn Jones, a clinical nurse educator and specialist midwife, is retiring after an impressive 48 years. Her journey started in 1978 at the age of 18 as a cleaner at Napsbury Hospital, before she qualified as a mental health nurse. After becoming a mother, she retrained in general nursing in 1986 and qualified as a midwife in 1990.
For over three decades, Lyn cared for families at Peterborough City Hospital, before moving to The QEH in 2023 to support internationally educated midwives. Her dedication to maternal care has been a cornerstone of her career.
Words of Wisdom from the Retirees
Reflecting on her career, Chrissie shared her guiding philosophy: "Never forget the basics and always remember who you're doing it for – the patient. Teamwork has kept me in this job and I couldn’t have done it without my colleagues and friends. The QEH is a small but great hospital. We’re one family and we always look out for each other."
Lyn echoed similar sentiments, advising: "Never lose your passion and always remember why you started, regardless of how the landscape changes." Both women have been praised for their kindness and commitment, with hospital leaders highlighting their lasting impact.
Hospital Leadership Pays Tribute
Dawn Collins, chief nurse at The QEH, paid tribute to the retiring duo: "Chrissie and Lyn have dedicated their working lives to caring for others and have made an immeasurable contribution to our hospital, our patients and their colleagues. Their professionalism, kindness and commitment have left a lasting mark on The QEH and they will both be greatly missed. On behalf of everyone at The QEH, I would like to thank them for their remarkable service and wish them every happiness in their retirement."
Looking Ahead to Retirement
Chrissie plans to spend time with family, celebrate her 40th wedding anniversary, and tour the UK in her caravan. Lyn intends to continue supporting expectant mothers through pregnancy yoga and hypnobirthing classes. Their combined 93 years of service stand as a testament to their dedication, and they leave behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of healthcare workers at The QEH.
