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A nurse has retired after more than 50 years on the job. Staff gathered to bid farewell to Maggy Morley, 72, as she left her post as a cancer nurse specialist at Worthing Hospital. The 72-year-old worked for University Hospitals Sussex for 55 years, and was the trust's longest-serving colleague.
Maggy Morley and her husband Mike (Image: Worthing Hospital) Robyn Payne, cancer matron and head and neck MDT lead, said: "Maggy has been a dedicated head and neck cancer nurse specialist for 20 years, providing compassionate support to patients facing life-altering and life-limiting diagnoses. "Head and neck cancer profoundly affects essential functions such as speech, eating, drinking, and breathing, making specialist care crucial. "Maggy’s holistic approach ensures patients receive the guidance and reassurance they need throughout their treatment journey.
" Maggy’s journey began in 1969, when she joined Southlands Hospital as a cadet nurse, leaving home at just 16-years-old. Reflecting on her career, Maggy said: "I had always wanted to be a nurse, my mum used to say, from about four years old playing with the dolls – the usual story. "It’s a passion fulfilled.
"I have loved every minute." Maggy, who has been married to her husband Mike, a former paramedic, for 51 years, received her nursing finals results whilst on her honeymoon in Jersey. Throughout her career, Maggy worked in many departments including surgery, intensive care and ear, nose and throat (ENT).
For the last 20 years, Maggy has played an instrumental role within cancer services as a head and neck cancer nurse specialist. Robyn said: "Maggy has expertly assisted us in merging services across Brighton and Worthing, building relationships and smoothing out pathways with her signature warmth and wisdom. "Honestly, there’s no one Maggy doesn’t know—you could probably drop her anywhere, and she’d bump into at least three people she’s worked with.
" Andrew Moore, clinical lead for ENT and consultant ENT head and neck surgeon, has worked alongside Maggy since he was a junior doctor. He said: "I have never worked with anyone more devoted to their hospital and colleagues. "Maggy’s career is truly remarkable.
"She has contributed so much to Worthing Hospital and will be truly missed." Maggy won’t be gone for good though, as she has plans to return as a volunteer supporting the team and patients in the head and neck cancer clinic..
