After an extraordinary 47 years of dedicated service in the Nursing profession, Lead Nurse for Surgical Specialties, Jenny McMahon has retired from the South Eastern Trust.
Jenny began her nursing journey in 1977 at Ards Hospital, where she commenced her training. She qualified as a Nurse in 1980 and quickly embarked on a career defined by compassion and leadership.
In 1981, Jenny broadened her experience by spending a year working in Scotland. However, her passion for Nursing in Northern Ireland brought her back in 1982, when she resumed her work at Ards and Bangor Hospitals as a Staff Nurse.
In 1993, Jenny transitioned to the Ulster Hospital as a Staff Nurse, where her career continued to flourish. Over the years, she progressed from Staff Nurse to Senior Staff Nurse and eventually to Ward Sister of Ward 8 in the Ulster Hospital. Her exceptional leadership skills were further recognised when she was appointed Clinical Co-Ordinator and ultimately to her current role as Lead Nurse for Surgical Specialties.
Jenny’s commitment to professional development was evident throughout her career. In 2006 she undertook her Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Ulster, further enhancing her ability to lead and innovate.
Reflecting on her career, Jenny said, “It is such a privilege to be a Nurse. The patients and families I have met over the years, many of whom I remember so clearly, I will never forget, they are very special. I have been supported professionally and personally by the Trust over many years from across all the Directorates and teams and I have made many special friendships along the way.
“Retirement is a new chapter in my life, which is very exciting but I will never forget my time in the Trust and stay in contact with my Trust colleagues and friends. I now have the opportunity to spend more time with my wonderful family and friends here and in England and Scotland, with travel plans already made! My new puppy and time in the garden will keep me busy, but I will also be making time to catch up on my reading!”
Wishing Jenny well on her retirement, Clinical Manager in Surgical Specialties, Julie McClughan added, “Jenny has had an amazing 47-year career in Nursing, most of it within the South Eastern Trust. Her care, compassion and commitment to patient care have been exemplary. She has been a much loved and valued colleague and we wish her a very healthy and happy retirement.”