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As we mark International Nurses Day, we celebrate Sister Jean, a much‑loved Thistle Ward nurse at Newham Hospital, who has retired after decades of dedicated service and recently celebrated her 80th birthday. 

Sister Jean came to England in June 1970, beginning her career in a private nursing home before training at Kingston Hospital, where she qualified as a registered nurse in 1972. 

“When I was at home in Mauritius, I always wanted to do nursing. My little sister was meant to come to London, but she changed her mind, so I applied, took her place and came to see what the other side of the world was like.” 

After working at Kingston, Barking Maternity Hospital and Plaistow Chest Hospital, she joined St Andrew’s Hospital in Bromley‑by‑Bow in 1985, working in a psychiatric ward. When St Andrew’s closed, Sister Jean transferred, along with patients and colleagues, to Newham Hospital, where she continued to serve the local community with care. 

Over the years at Newham, Sister Jean became known for her compassion and strong work ethic. She went on to become a respected student assessor, recognised by City University for her support of nursing students. Among her many achievements, being recognised for her long service and named Employee of the Month remain especially meaningful highlights. 

“My colleagues describe me as very caring and thorough — nothing is ever too much for me. I will always put patients first. The students tell me they’re going to follow in my footsteps, which makes me feel really proud. 

“The most important thing is that I’m always ready to look after anybody, even when I’m back home.” 

Although she officially retired in April 2015, Sister Jean returned just months later, re-joining Thistle Ward in June 2015, where she continued to work until March 2026. 

“After working in the hospital for so long, it was so lovely to be appreciated. There is praise every day, and it really boosts you up. It makes you want to come back to work, because you know you’re always supported.” 

Sister Jean’s career spans more than 50 years, much of it dedicated to Newham. As she retires once more, the appreciation of her colleagues says it all. 

“Sister Jean, your journey has been inspiring. You have made a real difference to patients, colleagues and the profession as a whole. Thank you for everything you’ve given over the years, and we wish you a very happy and well‑deserved retirement.”  — Rubi, ward manager at Newham Hospital 

As we celebrate Sister Jean’s incredible legacy, we also want to say thank you to all our nurses for the difference they make every single day. If Sister Jean’s story has inspired you to start or continue your own nursing journey, visit our careers page to find out how you can shape your story with us.