Hawkesbury mum’s inspiring return to nursing
For over 15 years a passion for nursing took a back seat in Emma Harvey’s life as she cared for her family, however the hospitalisation of a loved one was the reminder she needed to refuel her desire of a career she once longed for.
Now, as a new graduate nurse rotating through the Maria Lock ward supporting palliative and cardiac care at Hawkesbury District Hospital (HDH) she recounts her long journey of returning to a profession where her care is making a meaningful difference to the patients she cares for.
“I graduated from my first nursing degree in 2009 and even shared a graduating class with some of the Nurse Unit Managers here at HDH!” recalls Emma.
“However, life happened. My husband’s role in the army meant that we moved a lot, so, along with raising a young family, my nursing career took a back seat, even though I paid my membership fees to the Board of Nursing every three years.”
It wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic when Emma’s grandfather was unfortunately hospitalised that she returned to university determined to complete a second nursing degree.
Despite having done lots of other jobs over the years including hospitality, photography, administration, none gave Emma the same sense of purpose as nursing.
“Whilst studying, I worked as an Assistant in Nursing at HDH and also worked in the Patient Services team.”
“I love working here – I live nearby and my three children attend three separate local schools in the area, so working here is like being with family. No one is treated as a number,” says Emma.
“As a new graduate the first few weeks have been fabulous. I’m consistently motivated by my patients and the feedback I receive from their family and friends, knowing that I am able to help people when they need it, whilst I’m constantly learning.”
“Being a bit older than other graduates, I feel I will always want to be working closely with patients. The idea of being able to influence and create change for patients is what I love to do.”
Emma is one of 89 new graduate nurses to begin a career in health care at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District this year. A second intake of 89 new graduate nurses begin in June.
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