This March we say a fond farewell to Clinical Director Kathy Newbould after a remarkable three decades. As Kathy closes this chapter in her career to enjoy time with family and embark on new adventures, we’re reflecting on and celebrating the amazing 30 year contribution of a leading light in local hospice care.
Kathy, whose extraordinary 42 year career began when she trained at Harrogate School of Nursing in 1976, said: “I started nursing on my 18th birthday, and my nursing life has been a joy, I have loved every moment of it.
“I remember coming to Saint Michael’s when the charity was based at the Convent of the Holy Child Jesus — it struck me what a warm, vibrant place it was.
“When we recognised the demand for the service, everyone within the team had the same intention and passion to get the charity established.”
Since joining the team in 1992 as a Bank Nurse, Kathy has brought her warm, positive and professional approach across a number of roles, and developed important and enduring relationships with colleagues, volunteers, patients, families and the community.
Kathy said: “I have never tired of this organisation – I feel very privileged to be part of it.
“When I reflect on my time here, it’s not about me – it’s about so many people, past and present, who have made the organisation so special.
“For whatever reason you are reading this, it means you have interest in the Hospice and all the work we do. You may be a work colleague, a volunteer or someone who needed our care and support. You may have been involved with Saint Michael’s for 2 weeks, 2 years or 20 years. The fact is you care, and that is exactly where I come from too.
“I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has contributed to making our organisation what it is today, for being constant in your giving, and consistent in your care. The last two years have been particularly challenging, but none-the-less, through the pandemic, we have continued to provide excellent support for those who need us.
“The Hospice is all of us yet none of us, for we cannot stand alone – but as people together we can get things done, achieve small things with great success and share life events knowing that someone is there to care.
“I have enjoyed the most wonderful career in nursing, and working for the Hospice for the past thirty years has been so amazing and fulfilling.
“I will cherish my memories, and for me, retirement is not an ending but an acknowledgement of all we’ve achieved since the organisation began. I leave with confidence that this work will continue in the future.”
Kathy leaves a legacy not only of hard work and dedication, but of consistent care, kindness and support for those she worked with and alongside.
Joining the organisation’s Leadership Team in 2015, Kathy’s significant skills and experience played a key role in shaping the strategic direction of hospice services. In her role of Director of Clinical Services, Kathy brought strong, visionary, inspirational, collaborative and integrated leadership to all of our care teams, to ensure effective management, organisation, delivery and quality of our fast-growing range of clinical services.
Yet, Kathy’s trailblazing approach is not limited to her clinical roles, but has characterised her attitude as a unwavering ambassador for hospice care. In 2012, Kathy summoned her trademark determination, dedication – and sense of humour –to walk barefoot across burning coals, raising funds as part of Saint Michael’s Fire Walk.
From car boot sales and Midnight Walks, to championing the charity across radio, print and television, Kathy has been consistently passionate about raising funds and awareness, in 2018 representing Saint Michael’s as part of a regional television advert together with eleven other Yorkshire hospices.
A shining light in the charity and our community, the impact of Kathy’s contribution cannot be overstated. We hope you will join us in saying a heartfelt thank you to Kathy, and wishing her all the best for her next chapter.
