Sue Musson's thanks to Team LUHFT

LUHFT is such a wonderful organisation filled with caring, kind, compassionate and very funny colleagues. It has been an immense privilege to be Trust Chair for the last three years. I have so enjoyed getting to know you and am in awe of your commitment, resilience and achievements.

I am very grateful to have shared my journey, not always a smooth one, with Team LUHFT. My term as Chair began with implementing the Trust merger and setting our strategy. And then came navigating a global pandemic, completing and moving into the CSSB and new Royal Hospital, investing in an enhanced Aintree Hospital, introducing important service changes affecting all our sites and collaborating with partners - all to improve patient access, experience and outcomes. A crucial part of my role has been appointing capable, principled Board members, particularly James Sumner as our Chief Executive. James’s outstanding leadership will, I know, enable LUHFT to thrive.

As many of you know, my involvement on NHS Boards began 15 years ago following my son’s recovery from a horrible, life threatening illness. I was so grateful to the people who saved his life that I sought to serve as a non-executive director and chair to say thank you and to dedicate myself to working with fantastic colleagues to improve the quality of healthcare for all.

One of the best parts of my role as Chair is presenting the Employee of the Month and the Team of the Month awards. These are treasured occasions when I get to recognise individuals and teams for the great work they do. I always like to read out the poignant and heartfelt nominations written by patients, families and colleagues. They talk about what you do to make people feel safe, cared for and proud to serve alongside, often at the most difficult times. At these presentations, there have been smiles, cheers, photos and lots of tears as I’ve learned through the eyes of patients, families and team mates the difference you make every day.

For me, LUHFT is a place synonymous with teamwork, caring and togetherness. You have given me so many magic memories that I will treasure forever. Thank you for all your kindness and support. I have been proud to be your colleague and wish you all the best for the future.