Edinburgh children's hospital receptionist retires at 90 after almost six decades with NHS Lothian

A receptionist at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh has officially announced her retirement at the age of 90.

Cathie Lackie, who has worked for NHS Lothian for almost six decades, started her career at the city’s old Sick Kids hospital in 1966.

Her duties included operating the switchboard, which involved manually connecting calls by plugging cords into the right socket for the caller to be put through to the correct department.

The grandmother initially retired 30 years ago, when she was 60 and mandatory retirement rules were in place, however her “expertise and dedication” were so valued that she was asked to return.

The health board said Cathie’s “warmth and professionalism” would be missed by staff and patients.

Cathie recalled: “When I first started and was on the switchboard, it was very different to how it is here now.

“I’m definitely going to miss the company and all the chats.”

Cathie moved to the new hospital when it opened in 2021 for the final chapter in her remarkable 58-year career, where she has enjoyed getting to know the doctors, and see them grow throughout their career.

“That’s been one of the best things about working here, to see them progress from junior doctors all the way to consultants”, she said.

“Then they retire, and I see their children become doctors.”

Staff who have been touched by her kindness over the years recently came together for a farewell celebration.

Allister Short, NHS Lothian’s service director of women’s and children’s services, described Cathie as an “institution”.

He added: “When you walked through the front door, especially at the old site, Cathie was always there with a warm smile.

“For children who were regular visitors, seeing her familiar face made a huge difference.

“Hospitals can be intimidating places, but Cathie’s welcome brought comfort to so many families.

“We’re all going to miss that and there will always be a special space for Cathie in our hearts.”

Cathie now plans to swap her reception desk for her garden, and spending time with her family, including daughter Susan Burns.

Susan said her parents used to share childcare and, when the grandchildren arrived, Cathie would look after them before heading to work in the evening.

She said: “Working at the children’s hospital has been such a huge part of Mum’s life.

“Her work family was so important to her.

“Even when she was meant to retire at 60 and reduce her hours, we quickly realised she was going in seven days a week!”