Coventry NHS worker with 'heart of gold' retires from UHCW in Walsgrave

A Coventry NHS worker who dedicated more than two decades of her life to helping people has described it as 'quite the journey.' Carol Ross will now be retiring from University Hospital Coventry in Walsgrave.

Carol started at UHCW in 1997 and worked as a Healthcare Assistant. She was part of the Emergency Department (ED) for many years in that role but also worked in the GP Assessment Unit (GPAU) and the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU).

She spent 27 years at UHCW and was known as the 'Cannula Queen.' Colleagues described Carol as 'having a heart of gold' and praised the 65-year-old for 'always going above and beyond.'

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Carol will now be enjoying a well-earned retirement after saying her goodbyes last Friday (September 20). She said she had 'loved' her time at University Hospital Coventry.

She said: “It has been quite a journey. I loved the role! You meet so many lovely patients and colleagues. I will miss it greatly. I had an amazing send-off.”

Carol told CoventryLive that she is looking forward to spending her retirement with her husband James. She is planning to do a bit of painting and decorating and enjoy some time abroad.

Clinical Nurse Manager, Roxy Ratheram, said: “Carol has a heart of gold and always went above and beyond for both her patients and colleagues. She became known as the 'Cannula Queen' thanks to her knack of always being able to find the most difficult veins. All of us will miss Carol greatly, but we wish her all the best and a brilliant retirement.”

Staff at University Hospital Coventry shared their well-wishes for Carol on Facebook. Donna Amelia Brough said: “It has been a pleasure to work with you.”

Barbara Ann Muddiman said: “It has been an absolute pleasure and an honour to know and work with you, Carol. All the very best as you start this new chapter in your life! You will be missed.”

Melvina McKenzie commented: “I recall many happy memories from your earlier days. Now it is time for you to enjoy the next chapter of your life.”

Sharon Farthing said: “Congratulations Carol, a lady that always greeted you with a smile and a big welcome! Enjoy your rest!”

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