Nurses surprised with Chief Nursing Officer Awards
As we reflect on International Day of Nurses (12 May), we’re sharing the stories of four incredible nurses who were surprised with prestigious Chief Nursing Officer awards.
At The Royal London Hospital on Wednesday 14 May, Karen Bonner, regional Chief Nurse for NHS London, hosted a special surprise for four dedicated nurses. Little did they know, our nurses were about to be recognised for the extraordinary care they provide daily to our patients, communities and colleagues.
The ceremony's highlight was the presentation of a Gold Chief Nursing Officer Award to Denyse, Deputy Associate Director of Nursing for The Royal London Hospital, who has devoted more than 30 years to Barts Health. Arriving from Trinidad in the 1990s to begin her pre-registration nurse training, Denyse has since been instrumental in numerous projects and improvements, including her vital role on the integration team that transformed cardiac services across East London into the renowned Cardiac Hospital at St. Bartholomew's.
Known for treating staff and patients with compassion, knowledge, and loyalty, Denyse reflected on her journey.
"I grew up at The Royal London. I came here when I was 18 and I will retire from here. Everyone I have worked with over the years has instilled their values onto me and I wear them with pride. I've learnt so much about people, emotions, and nursing. Nursing is a privilege and it's a privilege to care for someone. I wish and hope that nurses of the future hold that value, and I hope I inspire other people to hold that value too."
The celebration continued with three outstanding nurses receiving Chief Nursing Officer Silver Awards:
Now retired Nurse Consultant for Outreach, Ann, who began her career at The Royal London Hospital in the 1980s as a student nurse, has consistently placed nursing at the heart of her professional mission. As the first Nurse Consultant at Barts Health, her compassion and visibility have been invaluable to patients during times of trauma.
Nursing Informatics Lead, Dang, joined as an internationally educated nurse (IEN) in 2003 after qualifying in the Philippines in 1999, and has since become a role model for IENs throughout her career. Her journey from excelling as a clinician in critical care to pioneering digital nursing solutions highlights her commitment to nursing.
"Whether it's holding a patient's hand in critical care or improving their experience through better systems behind the scenes, nursing is a constant act of service and connection. It's also a profession of lifelong learning and adaptability, which is why I've found purpose in both the clinical and digital sides of care. Ultimately, nursing gives you the chance to make a real difference - every day.", Dang shared.
Lead Nurse for Paediatric Haematology and Adult Heamagloblinopathy, Kim, was recognised for her pivotal role in coordinating care for patients with sickle cell disease, thalassaemia, and other rare inherited anaemias. Her patient-centred approach, combined with contributions to multiple research studies and publications, has advanced clinical outcomes and evidence-based innovation in her field.
As we celebrate our nurses, their stories remind us that nursing isn't just a job - it's a commitment to always being compassionate and dedicated beyond just our hospital walls.