25/10/2024
👏👏👏what an amazing women
Essex's First Female Paramedic Retires After 44 Years of Life-Saving Service
Essex's pioneering first female paramedic, Sally Pattie, has hung up her uniform after 44 years of dedication to the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST). Known as a trailblazer, Pattie, now 67, leaves behind a legacy of resilience, bravery, and an immeasurable impact on the lives of those she served.
Sally first joined Essex Ambulance Service NHS Trust in 1980 at just 23 years old, stepping into a male-dominated field and becoming the county's first female Ambulance Woman – a title soon to evolve into "paramedic" as the role itself developed in complexity. Reflecting on her extraordinary journey, Sally noted, "The highlight of my career is becoming the first female paramedic. There were a few men in Essex Ambulance Service, about seven, who were paramedics before me. We weren't just A&E; we did day care, taking elderly people to homes and, in between those jobs, we answered emergencies."
As the paramedic profession grew, so did Sally's passion for it. Her courage and determination have made her a shining example for generations of women who followed her into emergency care. Today, she proudly observes that women outnumber men in the profession. "I would say to any women or young girls who are thinking of joining that they should definitely go for it. It's not mundane – no two jobs are the same. You meet lots of people, and you gain medical knowledge you never forget," she added with her trademark enthusiasm.
From Bank of England to Ambulance Pioneer
Sally's journey to paramedicine began after working with the Bank of England. Fuelled by a drive to help others and a desire for the flexibility that shift work in the ambulance service offered, her dedication saw her through 38 years in West Essex, mostly based out of Ongar, where she formed an integral part of her community's emergency response.
"We weren't called paramedics back then; that's what we became in 1988. We were just called ambulance men and women," she recounted. In those early days, resources were limited to a chair, blanket, Entonox, and oxygen, but her commitment was boundless. Sally's expertise evolved with each call she attended, and her skill and experience quickly earned her a respected place in the service.
A Life's Work Celebrated by Colleagues and Community
In the words of Sandra Treacher, Head of Clinical Operations for Hertfordshire and West Essex, Sally has been a vital figure, "Sally's journey has seen her respond to thousands of emergencies, saving countless lives and touching the hearts of both patients and colleagues. Sally joined the ambulance service at a time when the role was traditionally male-dominated, but her passion, skill, and determination quickly paved the way for others."
Reflecting on Sally's influence, Treacher continued, "As Essex's first female paramedic, she has not only set an inspiring example for future generations but has also been a true pioneer in healthcare. Sally's dedication to her role has been nothing short of extraordinary, and she has remained a constant source of strength through it all. You leave behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come."
Retirement Plans and a Well-Deserved Rest
After a lifetime of service, Sally retired on 13 October with plans to focus on her health, enjoy more holidays, and work on her golf game. Her community, colleagues, and the nation owe her a debt of gratitude for her unwavering commitment, courage, and the lives she has touched along the way. Her story serves as a reminder of the incredible dedication and bravery that emergency service workers bring to their roles.
As Sally steps away from her post, Emergency Services News extends its heartfelt gratitude and wishes her a happy, fulfilling retirement. Her legacy and pioneering spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
