Saying farewell to her ‘second home’: Mount Druitt Hospital’s Paula Fenton retires after two decades of service

For over 20 years, Paula Fenton’s presence has been a comforting constant in the bustling corridors of Mount Druitt Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).

Often hailed as the very heart of the ED, Paula’s recent retirement marks the end of an era after over two decades of service, most recently as a Clinical Support Officer.

She describes Mount Druitt Hospital lovingly as her “second home.”

Starting her journey in 2000, Paula initially joined Mount Druitt Hospital’s ED donning various roles including communications clerk. She later transitioned to the Children’s Ward, Ward 2B, serving as a Clinical Support Officer.

Her commitment and adaptability shone particularly bright during the COVID-19 pandemic when she took up a pivotal role as an Executive Assistant to the Director of Nursing for the WSLHD Integrated and Community Health team. Looking back at that challenging period, Paula said it remains a “precious and proud memory.”

“I was so proud of how staff came together during COVID-19, offering mutual support. The daily office chats, the camaraderie, the friendship, and the immense support from the hospital staff over the years is something I’ll deeply miss.”

Paula’s departing message for her colleagues was a reminder of the passion that first brought them to their current roles, and the importance of serving the western Sydney community by providing quality health care and treatments and their families.

David Glastonbury, Nursing Unit Manager of the ED, shared heartfelt sentiments about Paula’s departure.

“Her unparalleled enthusiasm, dedication, and sense of humour have made her an integral part of our team. Her unwavering commitment to putting patients and their families at the forefront is an inspiration to us all. We wish her a blissful retirement,” David said.

Mount Druitt Hospital’s Deputy Director of Nursing, Kirsty Wallis, also praised Paula’s legacy.

“Paula’s dedication to the WSLHD community over her 23 years of service is truly commendable. She’s been an invaluable asset to our ED.”

As she steps into a new chapter, Paula has exciting plans for her retirement. She looks forward to travelling, possibly residing abroad for a year, mastering a second language, and most importantly, spending treasured moments with her three grandchildren.