DEDICATED Julie Grenon was given a socially-distanced send-off as she retired after 17 years at St Luke’s Hospice.

Julie, a palliative care nurse with the Hospice at Home team, thanked her colleagues as she reflected on her 17-year journey with St Luke’s as she stepped down.

Although some of Julie’s colleagues were unable to attend the party due to the coronavirus lockdown, they did not miss out on the fun thanks to the wonders of modern technology via a Zoom call.

Julie, 75, was emotional when looking back on a career spanning many years helping the community across south Essex.

She said: “It truly is the end of an era.

“I have worked in the Basildon and Thurrock community for the past 57 years, 17 of which were at St Luke’s Hospice, and what a journey it has been.

“Being a palliative care nurse is such a passion of mine and I feel privileged to have been alongside the wonderful families during such a difficult time in their lives, holistically assessing their needs, their families’ needs and sometimes even their pet’s needs!”

As a retirement gift, colleagues at the hospice gave Julie a gold necklace with a green stone, which symbolises compassion.

She spoke of her pride at working with St Luke’s Hospice’s committed team.

Julie said: “I feel privileged to have worked with such amazing professionals over the course of my career.

“We have taught each other, looked after each other and supported each other during professional and personal difficulties.”

St Luke’s Hospice helps people living in the Basildon and Thurrock districts, who have specialist palliative and end of life care needs.

Julie revealed she had been intending to retire for a number of years before deciding to step down from the charity.

She admitted: “I finally made the decision to retire from my role and feel that now is the right time, although I’ve been saying that for many years!

“I will cherish all of the fond memories I have from over the years.”

Offering thanks to colleagues, Julie added: “I wish all the staff in St Luke’s Hospice enormous luck for the future and I thank them all for their dedication to supporting our patients and their families when they need it most.”