Happy retirement to Margaret after 62 years of service

A very special get together took place in Coleraine this afternoon (Fri 26 Sept) in honour of a much-loved member of Team North.

Margaret Toye retired today after dedicating over 60 years to the nursing profession.

She has spent the last 14 years as a Bank Nurse, after initially retiring from her permanent post in 2011.

Margaret’s career journey began back in 1963 when she started her initial training, qualifying in 1965 before taking up employment in Coleraine Hospital.

In 1978, Margaret moved from the ward setting to the community, working in both Coleraine and Portstewart. She continued to study in the background, completing a conversion course and a teaching and learning course before graduating in 1999 with an Honours Degree in Community Nursing.

Speaking at today’s event, where she was presented with a deserved Greatix award, Margaret said: “I was drawn to nursing because of my desire to give care and help others in their time of need.

“I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible colleagues through countless experiences and with thousands of patients. Their trust and resilience has taught me a lot.

“In my career I have witnessed many changes in the world of healthcare from new technologies to evolving patient needs. The healthcare system has changed immeasurably but core nursing, the compassion, care and the simple act of being there for someone in their time of need, remains constant.

“It has been an incredible honour to serve in this profession and I am truly grateful for every moment of this remarkable journey.

“Giving my best years to this noble career is something I will never regret – I will miss you all.”

Katrina McAdams, Deputy Nurse Bank Manager, said Margaret will be greatly missed by everyone who has had the privilege of working with her: “Margaret is simply one of a kind, and all of us have benefited from having her as a trusted colleague and friend through the years.

“Margaret has dedicated her entire life to nursing, and she embodies everything that a nurse should strive to be.

“On behalf of Margaret’s colleagues, I want to say one big thank you to her. She is an inspiration to all of us and while we will miss her reassuring presence, we all wish her the most well-deserved, long and happy retirement.”

 

 

 

27th September 2025