We're delighted to introduce you to Sue who has been with DHU for more than 20 years. As we mark International Nurses Day, we wanted to speak to Sue to find out a bit more about her time as a Nurse, what nursing means to her and how it's changed over the years - in her own words...
"I started my Nurse Training in London in 1984 as, at the time, I didn’t want to go to university, and the combination of practical and intellectual learning was appealing to me.
"My career progresses to include orthopaedic, theatre, practice, respiratory nursing, several years as a midwife and for more than 20 years, as a nurse practitioner, including here at DHU.
"I began working for Derbyshire Healthcare (as it was then) in October 2005, my out of hours role gave me an insight into Urgent care and I have always really enjoyed the diversity, variety and challenges it brings.
"I’ve had a number of roles, including audit lead and clinical lead for more than 10 years and continue to enjoy this. I recently retired from my clinical service lead role to reduce my hours which was a difficult decision. It was a privilege managing such a fabulous group of practitioners and my line manager provided inspiration and support. I now work 20 hours clinically, allowing me more time with family and friends and embracing new hobbies.
"Why do I still work for DHU after 20 years? I still enjoy my work here, no two days are the same and if you know that you have made even a small difference to a patient’s journey it makes coming to work worthwhile. Hopefully, I will continue to work for DHU for a few more years!
"Looking back on my Career on International Nurses Day I feel privileged to have been able to care and make a difference to people from a newborn baby to patients on end-of-life care. Nursing has certainly changed over the years, but I strongly believe that care and dignity must always be the focus for every nurse starting out."
Publish date: 12 May 2026