As the year is coming to an end, it is always nice to reflect on the year and look forward to a new and exciting year ahead.
At the start of 2019 I was lucky to have a job in administration at my local Community Hospital and the hours fitted in around my 2 days in college. This job gave me an insight into how care is provided in the community. In February I was accepted at my chosen University to study my dream job of becoming a Paediatric Nurse starting in September. All my hard work at college and past voluntary experiences had paid off.
University
I was moving away from home for the third time this time to University. It was more daunting this time round. I was moving to an unknown city and having to manage my health problems alone. I love my Apartment as it is only 5 minutes from University and bus/train links. It was already fitted with a wet room that has emergency cords too. This gives me and my family that extra piece of mind should I ever collapse in the bathroom. I am very lucky that my mum can come over one day a week to help me with my shopping.
I think everyone must be nervous on their first day at University and I was no exception. I needn’t have worried though as everyone was so friendly. I am with a lovely group of students. I have also been able to make friends from other nursing disciplines as in the first year we have lectures together. The support I have received from the University to enable me to access my work and placements has been fantastic.
Placement
My first placement was based on a medical specialities ward and lasted for 4 weeks. I learnt about different medical conditions and syndromes and alternative ways of feeding. I had never had experience of working on a ward before, only of being a patient myself. The nurses and fellow second year students on the ward made me feel at ease straight away and I soon felt confident in my surroundings. I had to pinch myself that I was actually now working towards becoming a qualified nurse.
Throughout my first placement I experienced the different shift patterns a nurse could be likely to work in a week. This is something the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) require all students to do over the three years. One of my weeks I had two night shifts. The nurses were very supportive teaching me new skills I had not experienced on days. Sadly though, I ran into my first hurdle. Although I could see, the dimmed lights on the ward put a real strain on my vision. Also due to the different timings I was taking my medication, my routine was out of sync which is not advisable. Once the University was aware of this they quickly put adjustments in place. Luckily, I have experienced nights now and have met the criteria so I no longer need to do these again. Now that I have started my placements the University have a better understanding of how to support me to work without it causing a big impact on my health.
I am not going to lie, it has been challenging with my health and I am sure I will come across more problems in the future. I love a challenge though and thrive through constantly pushing the boundaries.
I have my first assignment to hand in after Christmas but I have survived my first term of University. Yay!!
I am looking forward to the year ahead which I am sure will be filled with lots of exciting experiences. Watch this space!!
Health
Hospital appointments and managing my health is something that is continually ongoing. It never gets any easier but year on year I learn more and more on how to manage my conditions.
This year I was fortunate enough to be given a new treatment which has been life changing. This sadly came at a price with the side effects. It has caused me to put on quite a bit of weight which made me feel quite self conscious. I was worried at first what people would think. Despite this, the positives outweighed the negatives and I have learnt to accept this.
In 2020 I will continue to live my life to the full and share awareness to invisible disabilities.
Musicals
In my spare time I love going to Musicals. This year I have seen these amazing musicals: The Jersey Boys, Motown the Musical, Les Miserables, Book of Mormon, Les Miserables the staged concert and The Bodyguard. I am hoping to see some new Musicals in 2020. If anyone has any recommendations do let me know.
I am looking forward to spending Christmas with my family and catching up with close friends. I will also be remembering people close to me that are sadly no longer with us.
As we all unwind and settle down to celebrate Christmas and the New Year I would like to thank all my followers new and old for your continued support. Your words of wisdom help me through the tough days and keep me smiling.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all.
Love
Stephanie. Xx
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