Mariam Anthony, who turns 60 this week, can look back on almost 40 years of work and change at Groote Schuur Hospital.
Ms Anthony, of Heideveld, joined the hospital as a data typist in 1982, working in the medical informatics department for ten years until moving to the engineering department, where she has been ever since, in 1993.
“I currently work as an administration clerk in the engineering department, and my duties include seeing to all the maintenance of the staff’s leave and finance, among other duties,” she says.
“Engineering plays a vital role in the hospital. We have plumbers, electricians, and carpenters, to name but a few artisans. Without them, the hospital will not be able to function at all. So, I see us as vital for the hospital and I am proud that I can assist to make sure that we can provide the quality care for our patients.”
Now the oldest employee in her department, she says many of the friends she made on the job have since retired and she is adapting to working with a new generation.
“One of my highlights of working at the hospital is the fact that I met my husband 20 years ago at the hospital who is also an employee here. Sad moments are when colleagues die who have been working with you for all the years.”
Ms Anthony says she has never taken a proper break from work, other than when she was pregnant.
“I will retire when I feel that the time is right because we are allowed to work till the age of 65, and I can’t imagine my life without working at the hospital yet. I am, however, looking forward to a break as I need time for myself.”
