Marie Dunderdale has worked for the NHS for 33 years, 23 of which have been as a Health Care Assistant at CUH. Here Marie tells us about her time at CUH.
What is your name and your role in our hospitals?
Hi, I'm Marie Dunderdale and I'm an assistant practitioner in the day surgery unit.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I like meeting new people everyday. Meeting people who come in the doors unwell and go home better.
Tell us a bit about your CUH journey.
I joined the CUH family in January 2000 as a level 1 health care assistant. However, I began my career with the NHS in March 1990 in Gainsburgh. At that time, Gainsburgh, was a cottage hospital, so my study days were at Lincoln County Hospital.
Whilst working at CUH over the last 23 years I have progressed from a level 1 health care assistant to my current role as a level 4 health care assistant where I am an assistant practitioner in the day surgery unit.
Everyone works so hard on the wards. I have seen so many changes, particularly through the pandemic. Where myself and my colleagues have done so much to accommodate the rapidly changing environment. This does take a toll and I understand the need to be flexible. I am enormously proud of what we’ve achieved, despite some limitations.
Why you like working at CUH?
One of the best things about working at CUH is that I have made some wonderful lifelong friends and been part of the amazing history at Addenbrooke’s.
What does a usual day look like for you?
Very busy! I ensure that there is a tidy environment for patients, we have a 06:30 handover meeting, then I will admit patients and prepare them for their surgery.
Tell us about a case study/experience at CUH that really stands out to you.
When I was ill myself and admitted to CUH, the care I received was phenomenal.
I really felt looked after and my team helped me to get back to work, nurturing me along the way.
Specifically, Georgie, Nikki, and Gail have been with me on my health journeys and helped me up from my lowest time, when I thought I would never get back to work.
This job means so much to me, that getting back and helping my colleagues and patients has been fantastic.
How do you feel your role benefits our patients?
I put patients’ minds at ease, make sure they’re ready for theatre, feel like individuals and are treated with respect.
Are you involved in our staff networks?
I lead the health care assistant meetings on the day surgery unit, where I help my colleagues to feel empowered to make improvements for our ward.