A nurse from Holbeach is retiring after 42 years in the profession.
Loraine Andrews (62) is retiring after 25 years at the QEH in King’s Lynn, where she has delivered compassionate patient care.
She began her career in 1983 as a care assistant before qualifying as a State Enrolled Nurse (SEN) in 1986.
Over the years, she has worked across a range of medical and neurological rehabilitation wards, including the Wolfson Rehab Unit at the Atkinson Morley Hospital in Wimbledon.
In 2000 she moved to Norfolk to be closer to her parents and joined the QEH shortly afterwards, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a calm, compassionate manner.
She played an instrumental role in setting up the original Discharge Lounge in 2001 – a facility she remained closely connected to throughout her time working at the hospital.
Reflecting on her career, Loraine said: “I honestly love my job – no two days have ever been the same. I’ve had the privilege to care for people at some of their most vulnerable moments, and that’s something I’ve never taken lightly.
“I will really miss putting on my uniform – it means so much to me because of what it represents, compassion, respect, and making a difference, even in small ways.”
Loraine plans to spend some time relaxing after retirement and is looking forward to welcoming her extended family from America for a special Christmas with her mum. In the new year, she hopes to focus on her own wellbeing and fitness.
She was joined in celebrating retirement by her colleague Dawn Brown (56), who leaves after 17 years in nursing.
