Dorset nurse says shaking hands with King was 'pure joy'

Deepa Pappu joined the NHS in 2004

A nurse has said she was "deeply moved" by King Charles's decision to spend his birthday with international nurses.

Deepa Pappu, of University Hospitals Dorset, was among 400 nurses and midwives invited to a reception at Buckingham Palace on 14 November.

Ms Pappu, who is the equality, diversity and inclusion lead at the hospitals trust, joined the NHS from Kerala, India, in 2004.

She said shaking hands with the King was "pure joy".

Ms Pappu said: "It was one of the most memorable days of my career.

"My family back home and friends around the world were super excited.

"The kind and happy messages from my colleagues made me feel truly loved."

King Charles spoke with nurses and midwives at Buckingham Palace

Throughout her career, Ms Pappu has worked to welcome other internationally educated nurses in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

During the pandemic, she supported new arrivals who were isolated from their home support systems.

She added: "To be invited to the palace and shake hands with the King was beyond my dreams. It was pure joy."

The reception was part of the NHS 75 celebrations.

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