Finalist Hilary Dolan, Pharmacist and Owner at The Mill Pharmacy in Coolaney, Sligo has been described by her customers as the pillar of her community.
“Hilary always provides service with a smile . She has stepped up over and beyond during this pandemic and has been a friend, a counsellor, a medical advisor and a breath of fresh air to both young and old during this season,” said one customer.
Hilary quite literally saved the life of her nominee, June Boyle. During a routine eye test in June of this year, it was identified June had a bleed on the brain. However, with GP surgeries remaining closed, it was her on-call GP who had to contact Hilary out-of-hours to open the pharmacy for high dose steroids for the swelling to her brain, prior to June getting to Galway University Hospital.
“I have the best pharmacist in the world,” reflects June. “What rapidly turned into a medical emergency and a fight for life for me was terrifying but Hilary ever faltered in her care and compassion.
“Her fast action and quick response literally saved my life. I have since been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Hilary has been remarkable. Her support has been invaluable.
“She brings the medication to my house on days there is no one to pick it up. She explains and goes through everything so thoroughly as she knows my brain takes bit longer to process information. Her patience, kindness, positivity is truly remarkable. I am grateful everyday to have such an amazing support pharmacy in my village.”
Hilary comments, “Without a doubt, nomination for such an Award is an enormous honour for me, professionally, but also, to a far greater extent, personally.
These past 18 months have been unparalleled in the challenges that they have brought about, not least in our community.
“Yet, to read such sincere and heartfelt comments from June, a woman who has exuded class and courage throughout the challenges that have come her way over the pandemic, is a touching reminder of why I became a pharmacist.
“While any recognition for my work is of course welcome, the appreciation of my patients here in Coolaney, where immense hospitality and friendliness is a given, is as fulfilling an Award as I could ask for.”
Closing Date for Voting: Monday November 1st, 2021
To vote for your pharmacist visit: www.irishpharmacyawards.ie/panadol/
