Looking back on 40 years of radiography service

A 63-year-old chief radiographer from Bellville was among 75 recipients of the award for 40 years of service at Tygerberg Hospital on Monday.

Petronella le Roux said she became a qualified radiographer in February 1983.

Some of her duties include the management of X-ray equipment, assisting with the procurement of consumables, health and safety inspections, radiation protection and handling radiation dosimeters, according to the Tygerberg Hospital.

Hospital spokesperson Laticia Pienaar said they recognised the service of 474 employees at the 2024 Long Service Awards ceremony on Monday December 9.

A total of 204 employees were honoured for 20 years of service, 195 for 30 years of service, and 75 for 40 years of service for this year, Ms Pienaar said.

“It feels great receiving this certificate because it is a privilege to be healthy enough to achieve this milestone in my career. It becomes part of your DNA to deliver a service to the patients and your colleagues.” Ms Le Roux said.

Some of the major challenges in her career included being part of the team that had to deal with Congo Fever cases in the 1980s and the recent Covid-19 pandemic, she said.

“You must enjoy working with sick people, and radiography is not only about broken bones, it covers a wide field of examinations in making a diagnosis,” she said of her career.

Outside work she loves hiking and spending time in nature.

Dr Matodzi Mukosi, CEO of Tygerberg Hospital, told the recipients that: “You have touched countless people’s lives and made a profound difference for our patients and their families. We celebrate you with heartfelt gratitude and pride.”