Galway doctor retiring after 40 years as GP 'cared for community with extraordinary compassion'
He joined his father’s practice back in 1985, now leaving the big shoes that he once had to fill to another new doctor
It is the end of an era for one Galway area as their doctor retires after 40 years of practice.
Dr Richard Joyce said goodbye and thank you to his patients for the final time this week at Gort Medical Centre.
He joined his father’s practice back in 1985, now leaving the big shoes that he once had to fill to another new doctor.
Gort Medical Centre paid the ultimate compliment to Dr Joyce by saying that he “cared for this community with extraordinary compassion and kindness” over his four decades.
They said: “Farewell and thank you, Dr. Richard Joyce. Today is a very special and emotional day for all of us at Gort Medical Centre, as we say goodbye to our dear colleague and friend, Dr. Richard Joyce, on his retirement.
“Richard began practising in Gort in 1985, joining his father, Dr. Paddy Joyce. For over 40 years he has cared for this community with extraordinary compassion and kindness. He has been a wonderful GP, a true colleague, and a friend to so many.”
They continued: “Richard, you will be deeply missed by all of us, and by the countless patients who treasured their visits with you. Your warmth and care made a real difference to people's lives.
“We know we have big shoes to fill, but we promise to do our very best to keep taking good care of our patients here in Gort, just as you always did.
“Thank you for everything, Richard. To you and Elizabeth, we wish you every happiness, good health, and many wonderful days ahead in your retirement together.”
Former TD Ciaran Cannon also paid tribute to Dr Joyce wishing him a long, happy and healthy retirement.
He said: “Being a GP is a very challenging role. It takes a special kind of person who can combine medical expertise with kindness, compassion, sound judgment and the ability to build trusting relationships with patients and their families. Richard Joyce has all of these gifts in abundance and he used them in the service of his community for decades.”