A former Healthcare Assistant in the South Eastern Trust, who was inspired by her own family’s experience of mental health challenges, has fulfilled her lifelong ambition of becoming a registered Mental Health Nurse.
At the age of 53, Kerry Nightingale graduated from Queen’s University Belfast before joining the Mental Health Unit at Downe Hospital in June, where she is now helping others facing similar experiences.
Kerry shared how she is proud to be wearing a blue uniform and is looking forward to starting this chapter in her life, having had first-hand experience of those close to her struggling with mental health issues.
Kerry said, “I was a carer for a family member who was going through their own struggles with mental health. I was a Healthcare Assistant and I applied for the Access Course into Nursing. From there I decided to apply to Queen’s University to study Mental Health Nursing.
“I never thought that I was going to get there, but I did. It took me four years and I started working on the ward in June.”
Kerry’s achievement in her professional life is testament that it is never too late to pursue a lifelong ambition.
Kerry added, “I am loving this role and I would definitely encourage anybody who wants to or feels that Nursing is for them, to apply.”
Mental Health Nursing is a profession built on empathy, compassion and understanding, qualities Kerry brings to her role every day.
Reflecting on what inspired her career change, Kerry stated, “Initially I never saw myself as a Nurse, but after doing the Access Course and having had my own experience, I thought, ‘If you can help one person’, it is all worthwhile’.”
Kerry has also praised the support she has received since joining the Team, “The support on the ward and from the Team has been fantastic. Everyone is always willing to help and support me. We really are a Team.”