Heartbeat: Farewell to Lorna Rowes

April 30, 2020

Recently we said goodbye to Lorna Rowes who retired after 30 years at our Trust. Having joined us in April 1990, Lorna began her career working in both adult and paediatric dietetics. She developed a keen interest in diabetes and went on to cover the paediatric diabetes clinic.

Diabetes became Lorna’s area of expertise. She undertook a course in the management of diabetes in the home and the community, which broadened her knowledge and experience. Working alongside Dr Agwu and the paediatric diabetes specialist nurses, she developed the service offering structured education sessions, home and school visits.

Speaking to Heartbeat, Lorna remarked, “I have had a rewarding career working at the Trust. Colleagues have become friends and I’ve watched my family grow as I developed a successful career. I recall being supported back into work after I had my first child. At that time, I completed the management of children with diabetes course too.

“Over the years, I worked on a lot of different projects. One of the things that I am most proud of is completing the certificate in diabetes care via the University of Warwick. As part of this, I produced a leaflet on carbohydrate counting which was used as a resource to support patients and their families.”

Looking to the future, Lorna said she will be enjoying spending more time with her family. “I plan to take life at a more relaxed pace. I’m planning to visit Scotland more regularly as that’s where some of my family live.”

Shabnam Bashir, Paediatric Dietitian said, “Lorna was an extremely invaluable member of the team, helpful at all times. She continually went above and beyond for patients and colleagues. We’ll miss her.”

Thank you for your contribution, Lorna.