Retired Nurse Wins the Award of Merit

A GALLOWAY nurse has received a top honour from the Royal College of Nursing. Vanessa Martin was granted the award of merit on Sunday June 5 after her talents were recognised and rewarded. The 77-year-old worked as a clinical nurse specialist focused on cleft services, including establishing the first education programme for nursing children with clefts. In retirement, she has worked as a secretary for the RCN for five years before being nominated and subsequently winning the highest honour bestowed to members for service to the RCN. [caption id="attachment_43244" align="aligncenter" width="680"]

WINNING NURSE. . . (From left to right) Pat Cullen, Andrew Doherty, Vanessa Martin, Kerryn McGowran, Carol Popplestone, Jane-Elizabth Tooke and Dr Denise Chaffer[/caption] Julie Lamberth, Chair of the RCN Scotland board said: “Nursing is in Vanessa’s blood. “Having had a highly successful career, she has taken her energy and enthusiasm for the profession into retirement and is a true credit to the College. “I’m delighted that Vanessa’s commitment has been recognised with the Award of Merit.” Vanessa Martin said: “I am truly honoured to receive this award and recognition from RCN. “It’s been a privilege to work with and support nursing colleagues in the Dumfries and Galloway branch to encourage them to engage with the College and speak up for our profession. “We are a team and I have received a great deal of support myself from nursing colleagues and the RCN.”