Ex-nursing chief leaves 'legacy of compassion'

Tina Donnelly was a "pioneer" and "a nurse to be reckoned with", a tribute from RCN Wales said

A former nursing leader who served in Afghanistan has left "an enduring legacy of courage, compassion, and commitment", a union has said.

Tina Donnelly, a former reservist in the Army Medical Services and former director of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales, died on Sunday 24 August.

In a tribute to the 71-year-old, RCN Wales' executive director Helen Whyley said Ms Donnelly, from Llanelli, was a "pioneer" and "a nurse to be reckoned with".

"Tina's reach in nursing extended globally, improving the working lives of nursing staff and advancing patient care everywhere she went," said Ms Whyley.

Ms Donnelly died at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, her family said.

Her work with the Army Medical Services over a 25-year period included serving in Iraq and as commanding officer for two tours of Afghanistan.

Nursing policy was very important to Ms Donnelly, the tribute from RCN Wales continued, adding that she "pioneered the implementation in 2016 of the landmark nurse staffing legislation in Wales".

Expressing the RCN's condolences to Ms Donnelly's family and friends, Ms Whyley added: "She leaves an enduring legacy of courage, compassion, and commitment to our profession."

She was a fellow of the RCN and was director of RCN Wales from 2004 until her retirement in 2018.

In 2014, she was awarded a CBE for services to nursing, the armed forces and trade unionism.

She also served as High Sheriff for Mid Glamorgan, Deputy Lieutenant for Mid Glamorgan and nursing officer in the Welsh Government.