Ruth Sims Returns to Mildmay

Dorothy Hannan, our Chaplain Sister Bernie, Ruth Sims CBE, Ruth Clark and CEO Geoff

This week, we were delighted to welcome back Ruth Sims CBE, a pivotal figure in Mildmay’s modern history.

Ruth joined us as matron when Mildmay reopened as a charity in 1985, after its closure by the NHS in 1982, and played a central role in our transformation into Europe’s first AIDS hospice in 1988. Working closely with Medical Director Dr Veronica Moss, Ruth pioneered many of our HIV programmes across Africa and Europe throughout the 1990s, ultimately serving as Mildmay’s Chief Executive.

Ruth Sims with Diana, Princess of Wales, 1989

This visit comes at a particularly meaningful time for Mildmay, as we mark our 40th anniversary since reopening as a charity. Our year of commemoration and celebration has brought together staff, patients, and supporters past and present. Ruth’s return visit added a special dimension, reminding us of the individuals whose leadership and dedication have shaped Mildmay’s direction and impact.

Ruth, accompanied by her friends and former colleagues Ruth Clark and Dorothy Hannan, was warmly received by our current Chief Executive Geoff Coleman and our chaplain, Sister Bernie. During her visit, Ruth toured our hospital, meeting members of the team - especially her fellow nurses - and reflecting on the remarkable changes since her tenure. She was particularly impressed by our state-of-the-art building, opened in 2015, and the dedication, professionalism, and compassion of our staff.

"The hospital is beautiful full of love and healing."

Today, Mildmay continues its mission of compassionate care, supporting people living with HIV and extending our services to those recovering from homelessness and substance misuse.

Ruth shared many stories from Mildmay’s early days and generously contributed materials for our archive, which we look forward to sharing on our website. Ruth’s visit was a powerful reminder of the enduring values at the heart of Mildmay: a commitment to practical care, innovation, and support for those facing some of life’s toughest challenges.

We are grateful for Ruth’s ongoing connection to Mildmay and for the opportunity to celebrate both our history and our continued work.