Please briefly describe your clinical/medical experience to date?
Straight from qualifying, I began my role as a staff nurse in PICU. I learnt of the strength in patient and parent/carer journeys and the sincere determination, kindness and compassion of my colleagues. From here, I became a CNS in paediatric clinical immunology, caring for children and their families with immune deficiencies in a tertiary children’s hospital. Finally, I became a Sister in paediatric BMT/haematology/oncology of where I work now, and it’s the best job in the world! Being able to contribute and provide care to our amazing families is truly just the best.
What motivated you to enter paediatric care in the first place?
Our patients are sometimes small but ever so mighty! I love how children and young people have so much strength whilst also being able to carry on being a typical child or teenager. Paediatric medicine is complex and ever changing, most definitely not one-size-fits-all. I also admire the relationships we develop with our families as well as the young person, it feels like a buy one get one free!
How will the funding from The Evie Dove Foundation help you to advance your career and your impact/services to children?
The funding from TEDF will contribute towards mine, and my service’s, understanding of paediatric bone marrow transplant and cellular therapies around the world, gaining unique comparison of care and what’s out there. As a specialty we learn by effective comparison and outcomes so being able to attend a course at an international level is incredible.
How did you find out about The Evie Dove Foundation?
My matron highlighted it to me when I was discussing how much I wanted to always keep learning more. I am a bit of a geek for learning! So gaining funding opportunities was crucial to further development. When I looked into TEDF I was deeply inspired by Evie and the foundation the team have created, it felt like a really nice fit to be able to work with them.
Tell us about yourself!
I have a sausage dog called Gregg (named after the bakery of course!) of whom is my world, all of my colleagues and patients know about Gregg! I enjoy dog walks on a drizzly northern weather day, baking, DIY and exploring the world with my partner, friends and family.
Anything else you would like to tell us about your experience, future aspirations and motivations?
I really look forward to my development in paediatric BMT/haematology/oncology as I always strive for high quality, patient centred and evidence based care. I hope so keep the motivation burning and share this fire with my colleagues at work, and attending this course will ensure my knowledge is in a great position. I am sure there will be future opportunities for learning and I will keep going!
