Karen McGuire, Sara Parr, and Karen Cropley started their nursing careers at the hospital in 1989 and have been caring for patients ever since in a variety of roles as their skills and experiences evolved.
It was the 14 of August 1989 that saw the start of their Registered General Nursing (RGN) training. They didn’t just share a milestone on that day; they’ve been there for each other ever since.
1989 was a notable year; Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web as a way of sharing information between computers; The Berlin Wall came down, Nintendo’s Gameboy first went on sale; Baywatch was first broadcast and Jive Bunny was riding high in the UK Top 10 charts with Swing the Mood.
As the nursing trio celebrate their extraordinary careers they share their stories of commitment, challenges, and the special relationships that have made in their time at The QEH.
Celebrating a legacy of compassionate care and leadership
Their combined impact on healthcare at the Trust has been immeasurable, and their roles continue to be integral to the hospital’s success.
Karen McGuire, now Deputy Chief Nurse, has led with dedication, fostering an environment of compassion and care. Karen said: “When I started at the hospital, I never imagined the journey I would embark on. I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing people who share the same values of patient-centred care. Over the years, it’s been about more than just leadership; it’s about creating a team environment where everyone feels supported and empowered. We’ve built something truly special here at The QEH.”
Sara Parr, Lead Advanced Practitioner and Paediatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP), has focused much of her career on the development of paediatric care, both in practice and education. “Empowering and educating parents and children in terms of meeting their healthcare needs, and watching younger nurses grow into skilled, knowledgeable professionals with the same family centred approach to care has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” says Sara.
Karen Cropley, an Emergency Nurse Practitioner in the Emergency Department (ED), has witnessed firsthand the critical role nurses play in emergency care. “The fast-paced environment of the ED is exhilarating, but it also comes with great responsibility. Over the years, I’ve seen how much we, as nurses, can make a difference in a patient’s life, sometimes with just a touch of kindness or a quick decision in a time of crisis. It’s been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues who are passionate about patient care,” Karen explains.
A journey of professional growth and innovation
Their individual achievements are a testament to the personal growth they’ve experienced over the years, but their shared dedication to improving care across The QEH binds them together. From advancing clinical practices to supporting the next generation of nurses, their commitment to nursing excellence has remained steadfast.
Karen McGuire reflects, “From the moment we began our training together, we knew we were part of something larger than ourselves. We’ve always been there for each other, supporting one another through challenges and celebrating the successes. I think that bond is why we’re still here and still passionate about our roles – we’ve all had varied careers and pathways but committed to care throughout.”
Sara Parr agrees, adding, “We’ve been through so much together. We’ve seen the hospital evolve, and we’ve grown with it. The bond we share isn’t just personal; it’s about a collective dedication to always improving the care we give to our patients.”
Continuing to make a difference
The work of these three nurses has helped shape The QEH into the institution it is today, providing leadership, guidance, and mentorship to newer generations.
For the three nurses, the past 35 years have been a story of shared commitment, growth, and a lasting impact on the patients and colleagues they serve. As they continue their work at The QEH, they remain united by a passion for nursing and a deep commitment to compassionate care.
Ends. Notes to editors; For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216. For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
Photo captions:
- Photo 1: 1989 at The QEH: Sara Parr (back left), Karen McGuire (back, third from the left), and Karen Cropley (back, second from the right).
- Photo 2: 2024 at The QEH: (Left to right): Sara Parr, Karen McGuire and Karen Cropley.
- Photo 3: Karen McGuire with Sister Bryony Oughton.
- Photo 4: Sara Parr with a young patient.
- Photo 5: Karen Cropley with an elderly patient.
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