After 29 years of service at health center, she walked out of her final shift, but wasn't prepared for what awaited her outside

When you give your best in service, it shows. Doing a job you love and giving it your all truly makes a difference. Glenda Elliott, mom and college nurse at St. Joseph’s Nudgee College, has been spreading this love by working in the health department for nearly three decades. After 29 years of pouring her love, kindness, skills and more into the Nudgee community, she decided to retire this year and worked her last shift on November 18. When she left the building for the last time, she was caught off guard with the best surprise — a result of her 29 years of service. 

The principal of the college, Scott Thomson, revealed in the college newsletter the news of Br Damien Price stepping down from the position of Chair of the College Advisory Council, and Sr Glenda Elliott, the college nurse’s, retirement. The principal had good words and best wishes to render to both members. Of Price, who served for eight years in the college, he said, “His wisdom, compassion, and steadfast commitment to Nudgee’s mission have strengthened the College in countless ways.” As of Elliott, he noted, “Generations of Nudgee men have experienced her care, warmth, and quiet humour in moments of need.” 

To the woman, whose sons also attended the same college, it felt more like a family she was leaving behind. To make her last day a core memory, the Nudgee family got together to put up a heart-melting surprise. All the staff and students lined up, the boys in their blazers deliberately worn over their shorts and shirts, to applaud Elliott and bid her farewell. As she walked out, she was stopped in her tracks upon noticing a wave of support, love and nostalgia waiting for her. She took a few steps back in complete disbelief… how could this journey end? 

Elliott's fellow staff held her hand and proudly walked her to the students, ensuring she got her moment. Applause, tears, laughter, and smiles filled the atmosphere that day at Nudgee College. It was only evidence of the love she had put into her 29 years of service. She greeted them with an emotional smile as she walked through the lines of the many boys and teachers. This was not just goodbye; it was a heartfelt thank you and an assurance of unending support to come. “Words can’t describe the lasting impact you’ve had on the whole Nudgee College community, especially our Boarders! We love you and will miss you!” the caption of the post read.

Clearly, to the students, the nurse served in an exemplary manner. “All of our families, but particularly our boarding families, have been the beneficiaries of her expertise and loving care during moments of sickness and injury to their sons. Glenda’s service is a living example of what it means to nurture the whole person; body, mind, and spirit,” Thomson added. In another post, the moments captured during the grand farewell were shared.

 Time stood still as the woman relived nearly 3 decades of her life in those moments. “You have each left a lasting imprint on our community and, more importantly, on the lives of countless young men,” Principal Thomson added. @daven4891 said, “The best. Always took great care of us boarders.” @mungle_ns added, “Glenda was so wonderful. Our 3 boys were so lucky to have her. You will be missed terribly.” @jane_sandyfeet remarked, "What a wonderful send off. So wonderful to be appreciated and recognised. Congratulations."

More on Scoop Upworthy

Teacher with brain cancer was retiring, students found the best way to surprise her

Walmart employee's emotional farewell after 10 years on the job wins everyone's hearts

Federer's farewell tribute to rival Rafael Nadal is sportsmanship at its finest: 'You beat me'