After nearly half a century of dedicated service within the National Health Service (NHS), Rose Amankwaah, popularly known as the “fastest woman in Africa, retires after 50 years of her illustrious career.
Born in Ghana, Rose rose to fame as a sprinter, representing her country in the 1974 Commonwealth Games, where she clinched a bronze medal. In 1975, she transitioned to a different kind of track, joining the NHS as a nurse.
Initially balancing her nursing duties with her passion for athletics, Rose juggled weekend shifts with training sessions, even sharing the track with future Olympic champion Linford Christie. Throughout her tenure, she remained steadfastly committed to Central Middlesex Hospital, where she started as a staff nurse and ascended to the role of theatre matron.
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Rose’s accolades extend beyond the athletic field, as she was recently honored with the NHS Silver Medal Award in 2023 by England’s chief nurse, Dame Ruth May. Her remarkable journey spans decades of medical advancements, from witnessing the evolution of surgical techniques from traditional “open” procedures to the emergence of laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.
Despite her remarkable achievements, retirement for Rose evokes bittersweet emotions. She reflects on the profound sense of belonging she’s experienced within the hospital walls, likening her departure to losing a part of herself. Nevertheless, she looks forward to cherishing moments with her family and embarking on new adventures, including a long-awaited trip back to Ghana and the opportunity to witness the Paris Olympics.
Reflecting on her athletic career, Rose reminisces about her humble beginnings in secondary school, where she initially pursued high jump before transitioning to sprinting under the guidance of a dedicated coach. Her legacy as both a renowned athlete and a dedicated healthcare professional leaves an indelible mark on the NHS community.
As Rose bids farewell, her colleagues express heartfelt appreciation for her unwavering dedication and infectious spirit, noting that her departure marks the end of an era. Yet, her impact will continue to resonate, serving as an inspiration to future generations of nurses and athletes alike.