PICTURES: Black Isle-raised GP who shone during coronavirus pandemic accepts MBE
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A GP who was brought up and schooled on the Black Isle and in Dingwall is celebrating after receiving her MBE in Holyrood.
Dr Kirsty Cole (41), who now lives in Orkney, was recognised for her stellar work during the pandemic at Skerryvore Medical Practice. She attended her MBE Investiture on January 18 and was presented with the honours by Princess Anne.
RELATED: Honoured doctor pays tribute to Black Isle upbringing
Dr Cole's parents, Ian and Patricia, still live on the Black Isle and were also present for the special day. Speaking of the event Dr Cole said: “It was a wonderful day and a really special experience. I was really happy to share it with my family, who were thankfully able to come despite the snow at the time!
“It was such a privilege to be with so many amazing people from so many other walks of life. They were all so nice, and it was a very memorable experience for my family and myself.”
Dr Cole received the news she was receiving the MBE in the late Queen’s Birthday Honours, last June. The citation said: “During Covid-19, she came to the fore in her support to the Chair of Silver Command, providing highly credible advice and fearlessly interrogated the science to gain clarity, whilst representing the needs of her primary and secondary care colleagues.
“Her specialist knowledge and ability to draw on the right people at the right time has been central to the preparation, management and on-going response of NHS Orkney to the pandemic.”
However, for Dr Cole the honours is about more than just her. She said: “Everyone on the island came together during the pandemic, and the staff at the surgery were absolutely brilliant.
“We were navigating unknown territory and we had to ensure that our patients and staff were safe.
“I am glad the restrictions are now mostly gone, but we are now the busiest we have ever been! I wouldn’t change anything though. I love working in rural healthcare, and there are so many unique challenges.
“I hope more people will be attracted to rural practices because it really is a special job.”
