Retired nurse from Maldon lifts spirits at Broomfield Hospital with her three-year-old golden retriever Rosie
Joyce McIntosh and Rosie visit every couple of weeks
After dedicating 47 years to neonatal nursing, Joyce McIntosh from Maldon has found a new way to continue her passion for helping others—through therapy dogs.
Joyce and her three-year-old golden retriever Rosie have joined Essex Therapy Dogs.
Together, they visit Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford every couple of weeks, bringing smiles and cheer to patients and staff alike.
Throughout her career, Joyce, 63, has supported families during their most distressing times, providing care for premature and critically ill babies.
Originally from Scotland, Joyce trained as a nurse before relocating to South Africa with her parents, where she first encountered neonatal care.
She said, “A colleague there suggested I work with babies who had been born very prematurely and needed a huge amount of care and attention, and I loved it from the start and knew it was where I was meant to be.”
Returning to the UK, Joyce continued her career at St John’s Hospital in Chelmsford, eventually becoming matron and senior sister.
She then spent the majority of her working life at Broomfield Hospital.
Reflecting on her career, Joyce shared, “I have had parents, years later, come up to me in the supermarket with a very tall teenager to say hello and tell me I helped look after them when they were born.”
Even in retirement, Joyce felt compelled to stay connected with healthcare.
Inspired by Essex Therapy Dogs, she knew Rosie would excel in the role.
Joyce explained, “Once she was accepted, we started coming into the wards. Rosie helps bring a bit of calm to people at a worrying time."
Rosie often visits the children's wards, and her presence often creates a sense of joy.
Beyond the hospital, Joyce and Rosie extend their visits to a local primary school and care home residents in Maldon.