For dedication and loyalty to the nursing profession, they don't come any better than Andrea Keppie.
For 44 years as a district nursing specialist she has been supporting patients, families and, more recently, junior colleagues at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS FT, sharing her expertise and knowledge.
Three years ago when she was eligible to retire, and because the Trust needs committed nurses like Andrea, she decided to stay in post on what’s known as the NHS retiree returner scheme.
Andrea, who lives in Ashton with Anthony her partner, started her nurse training when she was 18 at Wythenshawe Hospital and joined the Tameside District Nursing team in 1998.
She is a proud Queen’s Nurse and is based at Cricket’s Lane Clinic, in Ashton, where she looks after the postgraduate students who are doing specialist practice – effectively the link between the service and the university.
Over four decades she says she’s seen many changes.
“One of the main differences between when I started and now is that nursing has become more academic. Back in the ‘70s it was more practice-based, there was more training on the job. The profession has come a long way.
“Then doctors were very much in charge. We nurses now have our own voice. We are able to work with other colleagues to drive and influence change,” she explained.
In her spare time Andrea is a keen cyclist, attends spinning classes twice a week and loves to be by the coast, beach-combing the shore for unusual shells and driftwood.
Trust Chief Executive Karen James OBE said Andrea’s dedication and commitment to nursing are second to none.
“To give 44 years to a profession you love - and are wonderful at - is to be applauded and celebrated.
“Andrea is a true credit to our Trust and an example to all young nurses everywhere,” she said.
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