Pharmacy award for Sadie

Sadie attended the awards ceremony which was held at Crowne Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge in Belfast, providing an opportunity for pharmacies, GP practices and local communities to shine a light on the work that was done for patients across the province.

The Community Pharmacy Service tribute, supported by Johnson & Johnson, was given to Sadie from Gordon’s Chemist, Portrush, for her service of more than 70 years.

Alongside Sadie, two other women were praised for their long service.

A spokesperson for the awards said: “The Community Pharmacy Service tribute supported by Johnson & Johnson brought a tear to every eye and got a standing ovation.

“The three lovely ladies have given their lives to their community pharmacies, this was a fantastic accolade.

“Graham Powrie, capability manager at Johnson & Johnson, presented them with their award. Isobel Keenan over 50 years service, Sadie Jefferson 70 years plus service, Bernie McLauglin 45 plus years service.

“What an achievement for their community and their employers!”

The awards were hosted by the UCA-NI in conjunction with Profile Event Management Team.

“The province’s community and general practice-based pharmacists do a fabulous job on a day-to-day basis, providing their patients with a first-class service,” said a spokesperson.

“It’s only fitting that that service – so vital in today’s overloaded healthcare service – was recognised at Northern Ireland’s leading pharmacy event, Pharmacy in Focus Awards.

“Support for the awards is always fantastic, but it’s particularly phenomenal this year - Event partner Numark Associated partners, Emis Health, Sangers AAH, Alliance Healthcare, McLernons, Cambrian Alliance, Johnson & Johnson, Bestway Medhub, ALK Abello, GSK.

Bannside Pharmacy of Portglenone won the title of Pharmacy of the Year, supported by Sangers AAH.