KENDRAY Hospital welcomed a special visitor to the site recently.
Sheila Skelding, nee Thompson, 97, began her career on the fever ward at the hospital 80 years ago.
Her daughter Diane contacted the South West Yorkshire NHS Foundation Trust asking to bring Sheila to the hospital to see how it has changed over the years.
Sheila shared fascinating memories from her time at the hospital, including nursing patients outdoors to help their breathing, and her ‘promotion’ to washing the sputum bowls - a role she recalled with a smile.
A spokesperson for the trust said: “Sheila spent a year at Kendray Hospital before going on to work at Southmoor Hospital in Hemsworth, which later became The Poplars - the trust’s dementia unit.
“Despite the passing years, Sheila remains fiercely independent and still lives alone in her own home.
“During her visit, staff showed Sheila and Diane the main reception, as well as the stroke and neurological rehabilitation units.
“They were both deeply appreciative of the opportunity to return and reflect on such an important part of Sheila’s life.”
