At 96, Audrey Joughlin is still doing what she loves: helping patients. Having served the National Health Service since its foundation in 1948, she represents something extraordinary about British healthcare – a lifetime of dedication, compassion and service to others.
Today, all of us at My Medical Gateway (MMG) joins the many people celebrating this remarkable woman, whose story was reported by the BBC.
Audrey began her healthcare career before the NHS existed, working in histology, examining tissue samples to help diagnose disease. She remembers the transformation that followed the creation of the NHS in 1948, when healthcare became available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
“All of a sudden there it was, free. It was wonderful,” she recalls.
Nearly eight decades later, Audrey continues volunteering at the Royal Liverpool Hospital, where she has helped patients since 1994. Today, she runs the hospital’s book trolley service, bringing reading material, conversation and companionship to people receiving care.
And she has absolutely no intention of slowing down.
“I always said I want to die before I stop living,” Audrey told the BBC.
Her explanation of why she continues volunteering is especially moving: “I exist quite a lot for the rest of the week, but today I live, because I can do this and I know I’m appreciated.”
Her colleagues adore her. “She’s our queen,” says volunteer coordinator Debbie Grimes, adding: “She’s absolutely amazing.”
Emily Naylor, the hospital’s lead voluntary services manager, describes Audrey’s dedication as remarkable, while her daughter, Aileen Hodgson, says the affection she receives helps keep her going.
A Lifetime of Service, an Example to All of Us
At MMG, we believe Audrey embodies the very best of healthcare: kindness, dignity, independence and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Her contribution goes beyond the NHS. People like Audrey enrich the wealth of our nation through their service and, more importantly, the health and wellbeing of our nation through their humanity.
MMG salutes Audrey Joughlin and proudly stands behind her.
Audrey’s extraordinary energy is also a reminder of the importance of mobility, independence and living life to the fullest.
For people struggling with painful hips or knees, lengthy waits for treatment can mean precious months of lost independence.
MMG helps UK patients explore affordable, consultant-led hip and knee replacement surgery at accredited private hospitals across the European Union, with fixed-price Treatment Packages and a choice of three treatment dates within six weeks of clinical clearance.
Because everyone deserves the opportunity to keep living life on their own terms.
Explore hip and knee treatment options at My Medical Gateway.
Source: BBC News, Marc Waddington, 13 October 2026, “The woman who has worked for the NHS since it was founded”.
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