Sligo University Hospital’s Nursing Class of 1974 commemorated

“Our roots are in Sligo but our shoots spread worldwide”, that’s the inscription on the plaque at Sligo University Hospital which was installed to commemorate the hospital’s first nurses-in-training. 

The first intake of student nurses joined Sligo University Hospital in 1974 and the foundation was laid for the next 50 years of professionalism, compassion and dedication to patients.

The inaugural group of nurses were welcomed back to SUH last week for a reception hosted by Director of Nursing, Maura Heffernan.

Speaking about the reunion Maura said, “It was an absolute privilege and honour to welcome the class of 1974 back to Sligo University Hospital and to listen to their life’s journey 50 years on. One thing is certain; the ethos of nursing remains the same, safe compassionate care to our patients.”

During the reception the group shared their memories of training and spoke about their lives dedicated to helping others in Ireland and abroad. A strawberry tree was also planted in the grounds of SUH to acknowledge the profound legacy of this group of women.

Mary Coffey, commenced her nursing training in SUH in 1974, Mary now lives in Dublin but has great memories of her years of service in Sligo. Mary said, “We owe a debt of gratitude to this hospital for the wonderful education we received and the friendship we continue to cherish.”