Page 6 - QARANC Spring 2024

6 The Gazette QARANC Association
View from the Chair: ‘Xmas on antibiotics was at least kind on my waistline!’
I do hope all had a happy festive period; mine was spent with a hacking cough and antibiotics. I can certainly say my waistline did not increase, antibiotics tend to alter the taste of food I have, and continual coughing interferes with all.
Reflecting on 2023 it was a busy year: so much going on and something of an unknown future to consider and prepare for. We entered the New Year with Storm Henk followed by an artic spell and the warning of Storm Isha. 2024 begins to look interesting and, indeed, it will be.
Our 75th anniversary is around the corner; the Reunion Lunch should be memorable, and it does seem that many are to make a weekend of the occasion. Personally, when viewing the map of central Birmingham, I have ignored a district labeled ‘Jewelry Quarter’ sounds dangerous – one could lose one’s wallet there!
I welcome you to this edition of the Gazette, it is wide-ranging and interesting; clearly showing our diversity. Make coffee and sit down to an enjoyable read.
During the winter months some almost hibernate, not the Association sub-committees! Now, Tracey
Our fastest resolution to a case was just over two hours from receipt, speed indeed.
has her feet well under the desk and a good grip at the helm; the sub-committees – updating and with the future in mind – are reviewing practice, procedures, and policies. We are certainly moving ahead.
One area of concern where we do need your help is benevolence. Dee Radford – Dee is chair of benevolence, and the sub-committee is very experienced and knowledgeable – has drafted an article to raise awareness. I always say “want is dreamtime...need requires speed” speed requires us to have all the required information otherwise there is delay. Our fastest resolution to a case was just over two hours from receipt, speed indeed. Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sue McAteer has now retired, we understand she is enjoying her new ‘position.’ We must say bye to Lt Col Jo Cooke and a big thank you for her leadership as Chair of Membership and Media. Jo has moved to Command – good luck!
Look after each other.
John DF Quinn
Chair Board of Trustees
A word from the Editor: After 75 years the Gazette’s voyage goes on
“We are launching out on to unknown seas,” reads the first line of the very first Gazette, in January 1950. With the 75th anniversary of the QA Association upon us, I thought it would be interesting to revisit some of those early editions, which I’m planning to delve into in more detail for an upcoming feature.
Clearly, the writers of that first article, simply titled ‘Editorial,’ felt some trepidation about how the magazine would be received by the membership. No doubt accomplished in the ways of medicine, they felt out of their depth when it came to journalism. “Not one of us... has ever done anything of the sort before,” they confess, before expressing the hope that “our postbag may contain a word or two of encouragement”.
How could anyone reading that not feel sympathy? I wonder if they would have been surprised to learn that the Gazette would indeed endure, and still be around in 2024, or that you would be holding in your hands issue number 182?
While much changes, much stays the same, and I am pleased that the Gazette continues to bring you accounts
of members getting togethers to renew bonds of friendship, through reunions and outings. As well tales of service given here and abroad and accounts of
members challenging themselves in far flung locations, making lifelong memories. In this we are continuing proud traditions.
Reflecting on the changing face of the Association, this edition features a young Muslim corporal, Iqra Shahzadi, on her unconventional journey into the British
Army, and Major Steph Hayward speaks candidly about being transgender in the military. Plus, we meet Sian Peters, a nurse and championship weightlifter! And we bring you an extended interview with our
new and impressive colonel commandant, Andrea Lewis.
Don’t forget you can now read this Gazette and some earlier ones as ‘flipbook’ editions on the Association website. Times change but our values remain,
and the voyage continues...
Steve Bax
Editor
QARANC Gazette