Doctor follows in mother's footsteps

Dr Sandra Moore's position at the Aramoho Health Centre will be taken by her son, Dr Chris Jacques. PHOTO/BEVAN CONLEY

When Whanganui doctor Sandra Moore decided it was time to retire, she didn't have to look far for her replacement.

Her son, Chris Jacques, 29, has taken over Dr Moore's position as joint partner at Aramoho Health Centre.

Dr Moore has been at the health centre since it was built about 28 years ago.

Dr Jacques decided at the age of 17 to become a doctor, although his mother was not a fan of the idea.

"She actually discouraged me because she knew what a challenging life [being a doctor] was," Dr Jacques said.

"But having a parent as a doctor meant there was always a possibility that I would become one too, because I have that role model."

The pair did not plan for Dr Jacques to take his mother's place, but it all fell into place over the past few months.

"Two years ago when Chris said he was interested in being a GP I had it in the back of my mind that he might one day want to take over from me," Dr Moore said.

Recently Dr Jacques has been working as a GP in Palmerston North and at the Wicksteed House Medical Centre in Whanganui.

Dr Moore said the Aramoho Health Centre had been an important part of her life for nearly 30 years.

"So it's nice to see the next generation of doctors coming through. I'm pleased to be able to hand over to someone that I know and trust."

Practice nurse Sue Crawley is helping with the transition period from mother to son.

"She's been with me 23 years, so my patients have known her for a long time and she provides that continuity," Dr Moore said.

Dr Moore will continue to work with patients at Kowhainui retirement home for another year before she retires "properly".

And she has clear plans for what she intends to do in her retirement.

"Look after Chris's kids, do the gardening, go out for coffee with friends."