A MUSGRAVE dentist honoured his receptionist of fifty years for her hard work and dedication on Monday, treating her to cake and a special lunch to say thank you for her commitment.
Joan Botha has worked with Dr Jeff Chanoch, who is based in Musgrave Park, since he started his practice in 1967.
“I started working with Dr Chanoch as a dental assistant when he opened his practice. We had no patients at the time and built the practice up to what it is today,” said Joan. She said she remembered their first patient was a Miss Beans whose family had stayed with the practice up until five years ago when they emigrated.
“I have been with our patients for so long – some of our patients started with us 30 years ago. I have seen the patients have children, and their children have babies! ” said Joan.
Joan worked as a dental assistant at the practice for 13-and-a-half years, before taking on the job of receptionist.
“In the old days there was just one person who did everything in the practice, alongside the dentist, but as the practice grew, we needed help!” she said.
She thanked Dr Chanoch for the opportunity to stay on for 50 years in a job that she loved.
“Some bosses kick their older staff out of the door when they become pensioners, but Dr Chanoch has been the best boss, he’s a real old school gentleman. He’s a very nice man to work for and is very understanding and not at all difficult! I’m going to just carry on working as long as he is happy to keep me!” she said.
Joan added that she loved the people she worked with and was happy to be able to still work, as she said she would be bored sitting at home.
Speaking of the past 50 years, Joan said time had passed by so quickly.
“When you are happy in your job, the years fly by! I have such happy memories of working here and have some funny stories – I could write a book! I have enjoyed my time here and have enjoyed working with the dental assistants, past and present, who have all been super cool girls!” she said.
Dr Chanoch said it was a very important day, and that he was grateful for Joan’s hard work over the past 50 years.
“Joan is a very nice lady and she has done all she could for the practice,” he said.
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