THE Mayor of Derry and Strabane Council, Alderman Graham Warke, has paid tribute to a nurse for her work at Altnagelvin Hospital.
Said Mayor Warke: “It was a pleasure to host a Mayor’s reception yesterday for Michelle Doherty who received an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2021 for services to Nursing and Lung Cancer Patients at Altnagelvin Hospital.
“Michelle has helped so many families and truly deserves her award.”
Michelle admitted that the award had come as a huge surprise when the news was announced.
“I really can’t believe this has happened. I feel very honoured. I love being a nurse and I am blessed to have made it to over 40 years in the profession,” she said.
“During my career I have met many wonderful people and I remember countless patients and carers who have left me humbled and inspired every day.
“I feel very privileged to be part of a great team- a lung team that works exceptionally hard. I am in awe of their knowledge, skills and genuine drive to provide best care with the patient always at the heart of all they do – the way that it should be and I am so thankful and proud of them all past and present.
“Throughout my career I have been surrounded by wonderful nursing colleagues who have always encouraged me and helped me in my personal life.”
She also paid tribute to her family for their support throughout her career.
“I couldn’t have done the long unsociable hours without the love and support from my husband Leo and children Peter and Megan.
“I feel this is also a tribute to them and I can’t wait to go to the palace with them. The reaction from everyone has been overwhelming especially from my sister Joan who is also a nurse and my brother Stephen.
“My only regret is that my parents aren’t alive to be part of it.
“My father was from Yorkshire and I know he would have been particularly pleased.
“This is such a lovely end to my career and it is with sincere pleasure and gratitude that I accept this honour.”
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