Tuesday 6 February, 1968, was the day Cheryl Bell arrived for her very first shift at Ross Home.
Fifty years later she has decided it might be time to slow down a little, and to move away from the routine of shift work that has been her life for many decades.
Apart from a few years overseas, and some time away to have her three children, Cheryl has spent her working life at Ross Home. Cheryl has worked under five different managers, and held a range of roles in the home.
Cheryl has been the infections control nurse, the nurse’s delegate and has supported a number of staff when they have joined Ross Home. The majority of her early years were in Craig Unit. More recently, Cheryl has been a member of the team in Dalkeith Unit.
Those who spoke about Cheryl at her farewell talked about her attention to detail. They enjoyed working with Cheryl and always treasured her good advice and her advocacy for residents, who were the central focus of her work.
Staff commented that it was ideal to be on any shift that followed Cheryl, because “you knew if Cheryl has been there things were always going to be left in good shape when her shift finished.”
Cheryl will take many great memories from her time at Ross Home, “It is hard to say goodbye as I’ve worked every shift in the home over my time here. I’ve enjoyed every single day coming to work at Ross Home.”
Cheryl is not completely disappearing. She is a member of the committee putting together the Ross Home Centenary celebrations, which will be enjoyed later this year. Having been involved with the home for half of its lifetime, it is a very fitting way for Cheryl to continue her involvement with Ross Home.
Cheryl and her husband, Harvie, are looking forward to a little more time to travel, and enjoying more time with their eight grandchildren.
Thanks, Cheryl, for many years of service at Ross Home!