Staff with combined 40 years of experience retire from Wee County medical practice

Joy O’Hare and Carol Broadfoot recently left their positions with the NHS after decades with the health board.

Both women worked with the NHS in one capacity or another for more than 20 years and celebrated their retirement last week with a small gathering at Joy’s house.

Alva resident Joy is a hairdresser by trade but joined the NHS when she had her family.

She said: “I started in November 1999 as a receptionist. For the last five years I’ve been the office supervisor.

“I worked between Alva and Tullibody.

“I’ve really enjoyed it, I’ve made a lot of new friends.”

Joy added the last 18 months have been tough with the Covid-19 pandemic and so she made her decision to retire.

“It was really busy,” she continued. “Busier than it’s ever been, and it was hard with masks on and desks shut.”

Carol, the practice manager, joined the practice in 2001 and echoed Joy’s view.

She said: “I was probably already planning it [to retire] but it got so difficult during the last year…it’s been hellish.

“I’ll miss the people. Don’t get me wrong, I loved my job.

“I’ve worked with some fantastic people and I really did enjoy my job.

“Joy was fantastic at her job, she was such a good people person.”

However, it was time for Carol, who turned 60 last year, to take some time for herself.

Also a keen walker, Carol is looking to tackle the West Highland Way but first of all it’s time for celebrations, with numerous nights out and celebratory meals having already taken place.

“I’m hoping to go a few holidays and travel,” Carol said. “That’s what I’m looking to do.”

For Joy, she’ll be relaxing and enjoying the retired life but admits she’ll never say never about finding another job.

She continued: “I’m not saying that I’ll never get anything else but I’m going to enjoy myself for a wee while.

“I like to go walking, I did the West Highland Way this year and I’m planning another walk.

“A lot of my friends have retired…I’ll not be bored.”