Celebrations all round for Gillian’s 50 remarkable years in nursing | News

Gill Deravaiere, an exceptional nurse at Pinderfields Hospital is commemorating an astounding 50 years of service in healthcare, after beginning her journey within the NHS in 1973.

Joining Pinderfields Hospital as a student nurse at the tender age of 17, Gill began her career working diligently in orthopaedics before beginning her general nursing training. 

Qualifying with flying colours, Gill ventured into the challenging realm of intensive care. It was during this role that Gill's compassion and dedication shone through as she often extended her care to nursing the babies whose mothers were being treated in the intensive care unit at the time. This caring nature became her hallmark throughout her admirable nursing career.

After a brief hiatus to welcome her son, Jason, into the world, Gill returned to nursing, this time at Pontefract General Infirmary, where she found herself on the urology ward. In the 00s, the urology department at Pontefract merged with Pinderfields, forming one cohesive unit. Gill transitioned as part of this move, and her dedication stayed unwavering. Her caring attitude towards patients meant she often voluntarily began her shifts early and stayed until the night shift arrived, even with encouragement from the senior ward sisters, she could not be moved. This was a testament to her unyielding commitment.

Gill eventually transitioned from ward work to the specialist nursing team. Her contributions to building a service that both the Trust and patients can take pride in cannot be overstated. She carried with her the same values that defined her from the moment she qualified: nothing was ever too much trouble, whether you were a patient or not.

Sharing congratulations, Jason Alcorn, Nurse Consultant for Uro-Oncology & Andrology and Gill’s current team manager, said:

As a team, we are extremely proud of Gill and this milestone that reflects her unwavering commitment to patient care and the healthcare system.

Gill's 50-year journey in the NHS is an extraordinary achievement and a shining example. She is a legend in her own right, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Gill for her half-century of exceptional service.

Keith Ramsay, Chair at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, and presenter of the 50 years’ service award, added:

Gill’s story serves as an inspiration for current and future healthcare professionals, demonstrating the unwavering dedication and compassion that defines the spirit of the NHS.