As the NHS reached its 75th anniversary we spoke to a family who are proud to have had three generations working in healthcare.
William Leslie, his daughter Judith Mackenzie and his granddaughter Amy MacMillan all chose careers in the health service. Combined they have over 75 years of experience of working in healthcare.
William, 79, has lived in Inverness for over 60 years and worked for the Scottish Ambulance Service for 40 years, starting in 1968 as an ambulance technician.
William said: “I felt my occupation with very rewarding as I was able to care for the public at a time when they needed it the most. I did see a lot of changes over the years when I worked there, the greatest changes were the advancement in training and the development of equipment that we used in the vehicles. I was also there for the introduction of the helicopter service.
“I’m very proud that my daughter and granddaughter both work in the health service. I think it is such a worthwhile career.”
William’s daughter, Judith Mackenzie, has worked in nursing since she started as a student nurse in 1988. Her career includes working as a staff nurse in the medical admissions unit at Raigmore Hospital before moving to the patient flow team, where she works as a staff nurse.
Judith said: “My dad working in the ambulance service was a big influence on my chosen career as I could see his professionalism and also the achievement he felt in doing his job. I was also encouraged to pursue a career in nursing by a neighbour who used to be a nursing tutor.
“I enjoy my new role in the patient flow team. There is a lot of communication involved and problem solving while also being mindful of all the pressures that the wards, our Emergency Department and the ambulance service face on a daily basis.
“I was very pleased that my daughter also decided to pursue a career in nursing. It’s a secure profession and her ward is a very supportive environment to work in.”
Judith’s daughter, Amy MacMillan, 23, has been a qualified nurse for two years and works in the medicine for the elderly ward at Raigmore Hospital.
Amy said: “If it hadn’t been for both my mum and grandad working in the NHS I probably would not have pursued a career in this field. It still amazes me the good rapport that they have with past and current colleges around the hospital.
“It gives me a great sense of pride knowing I am following in their footsteps. When I was growing up, a lot of my mum and grandad’s friends worked in the NHS and being surrounded by hardworking, career-driven people definitely influenced my decision to join the nursing profession.
“I really like my job, my favourite part about working in my role is the team I work with. Even on the most challenging of days they never fail to put a smile on my face.”
(Article for use by NHS Highland only)