BEING a pharmacist may not have been his first choice, but it certainly was the best career choice for him, says Durban North pharmacist Peter Carruthers.
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He recently celebrated 50 years as a pharmacist, as well as his 40-year anniversary at Kensington Pharmacy, where he is known and loved by many who frequent the business, whether for medication, one of his hugs or both.
Speaking to Northglen News, Carruthers said he initially wanted to study medicine, but when he was told his academic results were not up to scratch, he opted for pharmacy, a decision he has never regretted.
“I knew that I wanted to help people in some way, and I get to do that every day. I have formed special relationships with customers, their families and even their doctors. Sometimes, people come to me for professional advice for ailments that don’t require seeing a doctor, and I am happy to help them. When it’s something serious, I advise them to see a doctor,” he said.
During the first ten years of his career, Carruthers worked in hospitals; on borders for the South African National Defence Force, controlling its pharmaceutical supplies; government hospitals and facilities, and the like.
It was personal circumstances that led him to join his brother in the business which went under new ownership two years ago.
“A lot has changed in 50 years. I, for one, am glad that medications come pre-mixed and bottled. We used to mix our own medication back in the day. I still do compounding but not often,” he added.
One of the game-changing moments for Carruthers was being a frontline worker during the global Covid-19 Pandemic and watching what he calls a ‘marathon’ to develop the Covid-19 vaccines.
“Working in a pandemic was a learning curve, but that’s what pharmaceuticals is all about. There are always new ailments and new drugs being formulated. Upgrades are happening all the time, but for me, it was interesting to see the development of medications to deal with ailments more accurately instead of taking a blanket approach.
In particular, antipsychotic medications and anti-depression drugs have become very sophisticated,” he said.
Next on the cards for Curruthers is retirement which his plans are underway for.
“I am a church musician and have been playing the organ for church for over 40 years. I’m also the choir master, so during my retirement, I plan on becoming more involved in music,” he said.
His advice to those who are thinking of studying pharmacy is to go for it if you are passionate about helping people.
“At one time, you only had neighbourhood pharmacists, but in more recent years, the profession has become so commercialised which has led to a lot of pharmacists becoming despondent. Being a pharmacist is a calling, and it certainly has been for me.
“Working in a private pharmacy has afforded me the privilege of having direct relationships with the community. I have had the pleasure of interacting, helping and guiding people through my skills. It’s been a great gift,” he said.
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