he "Happy Staff" spirit was vividly demonstrated at the Hospital Authority Long Service Awards Presentation Ceremony 2011 on 21 July. Accompanied by families and friends, a total of 547 loyal colleagues received the honour at the HA Head Office.

"I have served in a number of hospitals and have different experiences. Sometimes you still get complaint from patient even you have done your best. Don't let hatred take over you though. Instead, we should be thankful and cherish what we have learned and gained all these years," Dr Francis Mok, Chief of Service (Surgery) of Caritas Medical Centre (above right), shared his 30 years' bliss and woes at the event.

Ms Karen Lai, Department Manager of Clinical Oncology at Prince of Wales Hospital (below right), received a 40-year long service award. She expressed deepest thanks to her colleagues for their support.

HA Chief Executive Dr Leung Pak-yin paid tribute to all the award recipients, "The stress of working in HA is well known to all of us. It is truly our blessing to have you all, who are highly committed and dedicated. Thank you for all your enormous contribution to public healthcare service. Let us keep up the good work to serve the public."

Employees who have completed at least 10 consecutive years of service is entitled to receive a long service award from HA in recognition of their commitment and loyalty.