Paris Heart Centre

When we think of the phrase “one in a million” we usually have at least one person that springs to mind. I am sure you would all agree for those of you who know him, that this phrase is more than appropriate for Derek Balmer, the Cath Lab porter. Sadly, as you all know, Derek retires after nine years loyal and dedicated service to the patients passing through our Cath Lab.

Derek has rightfully earned himself a reputation for providing focussed, efficient and sensitive service to all the patients he has transported. The staff in both the Cath Lab and on the wards have many stories of how Derek has ‘gone the extra mile’ on so many occasions in the interests of his patients. He has been known to often provide extra reassuring support when patients are understandably apprehensive about undertaking a procedure in the lab. Often it has been Derek’s reassurance and gentle persuasiveness that has enabled the rest of the Cath Lab team to successfully carry out the planned procedures. Derek’s natural humility may not allow him to speak publicly about these small but significant “interventions” but I felt it was important that these did not go unnoticed at the time of his retirement.

On behalf of you all I wish to thank Derek for providing a first class patient focussed portering service. I also wish to acknowledge his hard work, personal endeavour and loyalty to both his colleagues and the patients with whom he has come into contact. What more can we ask for in a high pressured and fast moving service such as ours? Derek, we wish you and your family all the very best for your retirement and beyond. You truly have been, and always will be “ONE IN A MILLION”.

Kind regards With every best wish for your continuing health and happiness All your colleagues in the Paris Heart Centre

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