Wishing a fond farewell to Carolyn and Penny ahead of their retirement after 80 years of combined service
After an extraordinary 80 years of combined NHS service across both research and patient care roles, we prepare to say farewell to two cherished members of our team, Carolyn Currie and Penny Donley, who will be retiring at the end of March 2026.
Carolyn and Penny have been part of the Leicester Diabetes Centre (LDC) from its earliest days, contributing to its growth and helping to shape the supportive, participant-focused environment. As they prepare for new adventures, we reflect on the remarkable impact they have had on our team, participants and the wider NHS.
Carolyn began her nursing journey in Southampton before moving to Leicestershire, where she gained experience across a wide range of ward environments and community research roles. She joined the diabetes research team at the Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI) in 2009 and later relocated with the team to the Leicester General Hospital (LGH) when the LDC opened in 2012. Penny trained as a nurse in Manchester and after qualifying in 1986 secured her first job in Leicester, working on the wards at LGH, before moving into diabetes research in 1995.
Penny describes the role of a research nurse, “As a research nurse, I am involved in a research study from start to finish, from study setup, recruitment of participants, managing the study on an ongoing basis and performing study visits. I also liaise with the study sponsor and attend study meetings in the UK and abroad.”
Penny particularly enjoys helping participants achieve personal health goals and supporting new staff as they began their own research journeys. Carolyn has found supporting education rewarding, developing student nurse programmes earlier in her career and continuing to nurture staff learning within the LDC.
Looking back on moments that stand out, Carolyn explains, “A participant told me that her participation in research changed her life and the lives of her husband and children. I'll always remember that conversation, discussing dietary and activity changes with her, and then sharing the feedback with the trial manager and the rest of the team.”
Contributing to research during the global COVID-19 pandemic was a particularly memorable experience for Penny. Reflecting on her work, Penny explains, “We aim to build a good relationship with our study participants, some of whom have taken part in several long studies and I have known for many years.
“I still enjoy my job after all these years, learning something new with each study and my team have contributed to this, making some good friends.”
Carolyn adds, “I love working within a team, conversations about sport, family events and of course, what our dogs have been up to. The different personalities, ideas and strengths mean there are always discussions about different ways of working, implementing change and improving the participant experience. We are definitely best when we work together.”
As they look ahead to retirement, both are ready to embrace new adventures and make the most of the opportunities ahead.
Carolyn plans to spend more time outdoors, walking in all weathers, and travelling in her campervan to revisit favourite places and discover new ones, especially across Scotland. Penny is excited for the chance to travel more widely and spend additional time with family and friends.
Professor Melanie Davies, Co-Director of LDC, said, “Carolyn and Penny have been an integral part of the Leicester Diabetes Centre for so many years, and their dedication has helped shape the outstanding research environment we are so proud of today. Their compassion, professionalism, and commitment to our participants have touched countless lives. We are deeply grateful for everything they have contributed, and they leave a lasting legacy within the team. They will be greatly missed, and we wish them both a wonderfully happy and fulfilling retirement.”
To read more about the history of LDC, visit the about us section of our website.
Penny and Carolyn with research colleagues at LDC.
Carolyn Currie and Penny Donley.
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