Nurse Elizabeth Graveson is proudly hanging up her uniform after an impressive 48 years of service at Princess Alexandra Hospital, with her tenure spanning generations of patients and significant changes across the hospital's history.
She first arrived at PAH in 1978 as an enrolled nursing student, completing her training and living in the nurses’ quarters.
“I started in the old rehab building, which was called S5, before moving to Haemodialysis S1 and later General Outpatients,” Elizabeth said.
“I then worked in Diabetes and Endocrinology Outpatients as they were short on staff.
“I watched the new building be built and saw the old building demolished. We then moved to Ground Floor OPD for a few years before moving to Burke Street, which is where Endocrinology is now.”
A stint supporting the Diabetes and Endocrinology team proved to be a defining moment in Elizabeth’s career, with the department becoming her home for almost three decades.
“When I look back, the time went quickly, but my heart was always with Endocrinology,” she said.
“That’s how I ended up there for such a long time. It always felt like home.
“What I loved most was helping people. I cared for some patients for more than 20 years and got to know their families and partners. It was very hard to say goodbye.”
She also fondly remembers watching generations of healthcare professionals progress through their careers, from junior medical officers starting their journeys to becoming specialists.
“I have enjoyed my time at PAH and in the Endocrine Outpatient Department particularly. It has been a great place to work.”
Elizabeth is now preparing for a well-earned retirement and is looking forward to spending more time with her family, especially her grandsons, and enjoying more time in the garden.
Thank you, Elizabeth, for dedicating 48 years of your life to helping other lives.