How did you arrive at your current job?
I started my NHS career in 1979 as a nursing auxiliary at Bangour Hospital, Broxburn which has since been demolished. I thoroughly enjoyed my Registered General Nurse training at Falkirk & District Royal Infirmary; a chunk of it has been demolished. After qualifying as a midwife, I worked at Stirling Royal Infirmary; part of which has now been demolished……there’s a definite theme developing here. Let’s all hope Forth Valley Royal Hospital, where I currently work as a midwife in Ward 7, outlives me!
How would you describe your job as a midwife?
My job is extremely diverse. From celebrating birth, dealing with obstetric emergencies, to the devastating contrast of pregnancy loss, never are two days the same. It’s physically and emotionally demanding, with a high level of responsibility. It’s about empowering women and supporting them in their birthing choices and making what can be one of their most painful, stressful and life-changing experiences as positive as possible. It’s not just a job, it’s a privilege.
What makes you happy?
Life! I’m a ‘glass half full’ person. Spending time with my husband, family and friends, and ‘girlie days’ out with my daughter Kimberley (she is a Staff Nurse in ITU, FVRH)
What annoys you?
People who slate the NHS without considering all the good stuff. Every ‘industry’ has its flaws.
Favourite food?
If you ask my colleagues they will chorus “bananas”, I have at least one every shift! Dark chocolate gingers come a close second.
Bookworm or TV addict?
I don’t follow a lot of TV but the recorder is always set for Coronation Street. I’ve watched it since the days of Ena Sharples and Annie Walker. I’ve even been to Manchester and walked on those famous cobbles.
Worst nightmare?
My husband remembering his PIN and getting access to our joint bank account!
Holiday of your dreams?
I love the sun. I’ve never been a cruise so the combo of the two would fit the bill just nicely. Favourite holiday destination so far would most likely be Orlando in Florida – Minnie Mouse is very much an It Girl!
What might people not know about you?
I proposed to my husband on a leap year (31 years ago).
Hobbies?
I enjoy walking. Rod Stewart (and a few others ) accompany me regularly . I like pottering in the garden although I’m not very good at remembering the names of flowers or shrubs. Throughout the years I been involved in various activities to raise money for different causes which have ranged from pushing a hospital bed thru the High Street dressed as a punk rocker, pulling a Land Rover up a hill, wandering the Streets of Edinburgh in the moonlight in a pink frilly bra alongside 8000 other likeminded people and I have quite a collection of Midnight tiaras.
Your philosophy?
Don’t judge a book by its cover.
What is your favourite quote?
People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel –Maya Angelou.
