Lockdown during Covid brought about many health challenges.
Through vigilance and rapport with their patients and the public, community pharmacists are well placed to identify changes in behaviour and early signs of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance or alcohol abuse.
It was within this remit, that Jonathon Morrissey became an invaluable and critical member of the wider community team within Clane – working with local Garda in identifying and supporting those most at risk.
One of Jonathon’s key nominations came from local Garda Shane Smyth who told us, “We would have been lost without Marron’s pharmacy. Throughout Covid they helped me support the most vulnerable in the community that most people could not see needed help.
“Their happiness, professionalism, helpfulness and care for the community is second to no one. Every member of staff goes beyond what anyone could be asked for and everyone leaves the store feeling better, both for the medical help and with a smile.
“In my role as the Community Garda I see what goes on behind the scenes and I wanted to let you know that Marron’s Pharmacy ensures that the people of Clane’s physical and mental health is always their primary goal. Our small town would be lost without them.”
This was just one nomination from numerous, that we received for Jonathon. Both he and his pharmacy team are viewed as a critical member of the community family within Clane. For another nominee, his expertise and care during this extremely challenging time, ensured the children could return to school. Whilst the youngest member of the family has a compromised immune system which meant they couldn’t attend a walk-in centre for Covid vaccination, Jonathon ‘went above and beyond’ in administering the vaccine in the pharmacy, alleviating a lot of stress and ensuring the family were protected.
Jonathon comments, “I love my patients. I always have. They are why I love doing what I do. They are why I teach this to other pharmacists because I think the pharmacy profession is amazing. Frequently we are not good, as a profession, at promoting our work. It’s always humbling to receive recognition from your customers that you are making a difference and through this Award, pharmacists are able to once again remember why they ae doing what they do.
“Dispensing medicines is important but it is and there is so much more to be done by us all.”
Closing Date for Voting: Monday November 1st, 2021
To vote for your pharmacist visit: www.irishpharmacyawards.ie/panadol/
