Bridget’s 32 year Journey in Ardgowan Hospice

First Years at Ardgowan Hospice

I have worked at Ardgowan Hospice for over 32 years, and in many ways, I feel as though I have grown up here. I joined the hospice in January 1994 as Catering Manager, working alongside a team of three staff members and around 30 dedicated volunteers.

When our Housekeeper retired, I was delighted to be offered the role of Hospitality Manager, taking responsibility for both the Housekeeping and Catering teams. For a time, I also supported the Maintenance team and the Night Assistant team.

One of the biggest challenges was managing services across two separate buildings, but I was incredibly fortunate to work with amazing staff and volunteers whose dedication, teamwork and friendship made every challenge worthwhile.

Transitioning to Transport

In 2024, I was given the opportunity to join the Transport Team, and I was delighted to be appointed to the role as Transport Manager. I now work with a fantastic team of colleagues and our wonderful volunteer drivers. Throughout my career at the hospice, volunteers have always been at the heart of everything we do. They are not just volunteers—they are an essential part of the team. Their kindness, generosity and commitment make a real difference to the lives of the patients and passengers we support every day.

Why I’ve Stayed

People often ask me why I have stayed at Ardgowan Hospice for so long. The answer is simple—no two days have ever been the same. Every patient and every passenger is unique, and throughout every role I have held, I have always tried to keep them at the centre of everything I do. I have often asked myself, “What can I do today to make someone’s journey just a little easier?” Working close to home also meant I could balance my family commitments while doing a job that I genuinely loved.

Over the years, I have worked with around 16 different managers, each bringing their own leadership, ideas and experience. While many things have changed over the years, one thing has always remained the same—the hospice’s commitment to providing compassionate care.

It has been a privilege to spend my career at Ardgowan Hospice and to know that, in some small way, I have helped make a difference to people’s lives. Along the way, I have worked with some truly wonderful people, many of whom have become lifelong friends.

Spending Some Time Reminiscing

Some of my happiest memories include:

• My first day walking around the ward; it just felt like a really special place to be 
• Welcoming Prince Charles when he visited to open our Access Centre.
• Sharing in the many special occasions celebrated by patients on the ward.
• Patient picnics in our small garden, creating precious moments together.
• Our Go Yellow coffee mornings.
• The staff pantomimes, which brought so much fun and laughter.
• The annual walk and bike ride around Millport to help raise funds for the hospice.
• The moon walks
• Celebrating the incredible contribution of our volunteers.

Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities, friendships and memories that my years at Ardgowan Hospice have given me. It has been far more than just a career—it has been a place where I have learned, grown and shared countless special moments with colleagues, volunteers, patients and families. I will always be proud to have been part of such a remarkable organisation, dedicated to caring for people with compassion, dignity and kindness. Ardgowan Hospice will always hold a very special place in my heart.

Best Wishes,

Bridget

Throughout our 45th anniversary year, we will share stories, host celebratory events and most importantly commemorate the thousands of people that Ardgowan Hospice has had the privilege of caring for across Inverclyde since July 13th 1981. Please leave a dedication for someone special: https://45yearsofardgowan.celebrationpage.org/