News stories

After an extraordinary half century of caring for patients, Claire Fletcher, a Haematology Clinical Nurse Specialist at Good Hope Hospital, is retiring.
 
Claire has dedicated almost her entire working life to supporting patients undergoing cancer treatment - a vocation she has followed with unwavering compassion and dedication.

She began her nurse training at University College London in 1976, before moving to the Royal Marsden in 1980 to specialise in Oncology. Her career then took her to The Christie in Manchester, followed by East Birmingham Hospital, later known as Heartlands Hospital, in 1984. There, Claire helped launch the Hospital’s new clinical haematology ward. She played a key role in setting up and establishing the new team – a career highlight she remembers with pride.

Over the years, Claire has shaped services across several hospitals, supported countless patients, and mentored many new nurses. Whether working in education, immunology, haematology, or the private sector, she has always been at the heart of building and improving patient care.

In May 2018, Claire returned to Heartlands Hospital as a clinical educator progressing to the Haematology Clinical Nurse Specialist at Good Hope Hospital in 2020, a role she has cherished.

Reflecting on her career, Claire said: “Expanding the care we give to our patients in a nicer environment has given me great job satisfaction over the years,” she said. “I’d say the greatest challenge has been knowing there is always a limit to what we can do, as we always want the very best for our patients. I’m a little apprehensive about retiring after working for so long; but I’m really looking forward to getting a dog once I have more spare time.”

Naomi Dean, Haematology Lead Nurse, said: “Claire has provided ongoing advice and support to thousands of patients through her nurse-led clinics over the years. She consistently receives positive feedback and thanks from patients who have described her experience and knowledge as a credit to the service. Claire takes great pride in her work and she has also supported numerous new members of staff by sharing her knowledge with them. From all of us in Haematology, we will miss you Claire and wish you only the very best in your next chapter!”