Retired hospital cleaner is first Cancer Centre patient

Valerie Conroy was the first patient welcomed to the new Cancer Centre at Guy’s Hospital when it opened its doors on Monday 26 September.

Valerie, 63, from Catford, worked as a cleaner at Lewisham Hospital for 13 years while her husband Gordon, 70, worked for the NHS for 40 years in various hospital works departments.

Sir Hugh Taylor, Chairman of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, welcomed Valerie to the new Cancer Centre and presented her with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

A total of 123 patients came to the Cancer Centre on its first day – the first chemotherapy treatment will be given next Monday 3 October.