Creena retires from Pitsmoor Surgery

Story:Ashley Scrace

She's been a central figure in the community for decades as practice secretary; keeping patient referrals, records and helping Pitsmoor Surgery run smoothly.

But after 33½ years of loyal service in Pitsmoor Surgery's office, 62-year-old Creena Cassin says goodbye to the computer, pens, papers and patients as she retires to her family home.

Starting at the surgery under the wings of Dr Kershaw, Dr Stark and Dr Tyson, Creena explains just how different the surgery was in the seventies. At that time it was based next door in one half of what is now the dentists.

"When I started it was nothing like it is today. I had to write out all the patient referrals and letters on a big black typewrite. And it was extremely busy. People would have to cram in the hallway and wait on the stairs because the waiting room was so small."

"But I enjoyed going to work. Everyone there was friendly and you knew everybody, especially when you lived in the area all your life."

Creena's family had lived in the area for many years and before starting work at the surgery they lived right next door. In the eighties the surgery evolved, it swiftly outgrew its premises and the modern surgery was built on empty land nearby.

"When we first moved into the new building it was quite pioneering. It kept getting extended and it got bigger, turning it into a business really. It became a medical centre dealing with a whole range of health social and welfare issues which meant more staff and more work. There was hardly time for a little chat as the pressure increased. But it was still enjoyable."

Now the longest serving employee at the surgery, Creena realises just what an excellent training ground the surgery is particularly for new GP Registrars. Creena hopes that people will recognise just how hard she and all her colleagues work to keep the surgery running.

"At the end of the day we are the cogs in the wheel but without us it would not work. I believe everyone at the surgery deserve some recognition, especially as they keep things going in the recession."

After contracting breast cancer, Creena decided it was time to call it a day.

"I had been working all of my life and I had really enjoyed it. But after my illness I thought maybe it would be a good idea to call it a day. But during my time there I never considered doing anything else."

So now what for Creena? Dedicated to work as usual, Creena plans to relax a little but wants to keep giving something to the community.

"I love children in general. My son Nic works at Byron Wood School and I may consider in the future going into a school to just help the kids.,/p>

"The surgery has been a big part of my life and I am grateful for all the help and support from everyone at the surgery and in the community, but now I think I deserve the rest and time out to do what I want to do when I want to do it . I do miss everyone dearly and I just want to say thanks to everyone I've worked with and the patients who know me."