AMERICA | A 77-year-old woman, Teresa Jackson, is celebrating an extraordinary 61-year career in nursing and says she has no immediate plans to retire, despite decades of dedicated service to patients.
She stated that she sees the career as not just service but a fulfillment of her childhood dream.
Teresa's Story and How She Did It
Teresa, who is originally from North Hykeham near Lincoln, began her journey into healthcare at just 16 years old, starting as a cadet nurse in Grimsby.
More than six decades later, she is still actively working as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in colorectal and stoma care at Grimsby Hospital.
She revealed that she knew she wanted to be a nurse from around the age of nine, often bandaging her pet dog and baby sister—much to their disapproval.
Monday officially began her nurse training in 1965, splitting her education between Grimsby General Hospital and Scartho Road hospitals, where she gained experience across multiple specialties.
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After qualifying, she worked as a staff nurse on a general surgical ward, later serving in special baby care, elderly care, and night management roles. In 1971, she became the youngest ward sister, and a year later, an approved examiner for the General Nursing Council.
Over the years, Teresa continued to rise professionally. In 1995, she became one of the first Clinical Nurse Practitioners in Surgery in Grimsby, and following the retirement of a consultant she worked closely with, she transitioned into her current role as a clinical nurse specialist, focusing on stoma care.
She says the most rewarding part of her job is supporting patients through life-changing procedures and helping them adjust both mentally and physically.
“Patients are not numbers on a spreadsheet. They are human beings—often frightened, in pain, or vulnerable. A nurse is there to give comfort and ease that journey,” she said.
Reflecting on how the profession has evolved since the 1960s, Teresa recalled a time when nursing was more patient-oriented than technology-driven.
“We didn’t have the equipment available today. Patients stayed much longer in the hospital, and everyone received bed baths. It gave us time to really talk, listen, and connect,” she explained.
She added humorously that increased computer work is the one thing that nudges her closer to retirement.
One of the highlights of her career was receiving an invitation to a garden party at Buckingham Palace, where she met the late Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William, and Princess Kate.
“It was such a special day. Everything was so posh—even the sandwiches had little crowns on them,” she recalled.
Despite her age, Teresa remains passionate about her work. “When I’m asked if I intend to retire, of course. But when? Who knows. As long as I can do my job to the satisfaction of my patients and colleagues, I’ll continue,” she said.
Amanda Stanford, Group Chief Nurse at Humber Health Partnership, praised Teresa’s dedication, describing her career as a perfect reflection of what nursing stands for.
“Her drive and passion to care for others is a testament to the core values of nursing—care, compassion, competence, communication, courage, and commitment,” she said.
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