Just a girl from Wallasey

From Wallasey to Nursing: A Remarkable Path

I was born in Wallasey, a town nestled along the banks of the River Mersey. My parents, hardworking and resilient, taught me the value of perseverance and determination. My father toiled in a factory, and my mother graced the halls of Lewis’s—a legendary department store in Liverpool, marked by its iconic naked man statue.

The School Days: Challenges and Triumphs

School wasn’t always smooth sailing for me. I was the classic “Joanne”—the one who could do better if she just stopped talking and paid more attention. But beneath that chatter and occasional distraction lay a fire—an unyielding desire to make a difference. I left school with 9 really good GCSEs but no A-levels, and the world didn’t expect much from me. Little did they know that a calling awaited—one that would change my life forever.

The Nurse’s Call: Answering the Shortfall

In the late ’90s, our healthcare system faced a critical shortage of nurses—50,000 strong. An advertisement caught my eye, calling out for those willing to step into the noble profession. I applied to Chester University, embarking on a three-stage interview process. I stood before the Dean, my heart pounding, and made my case: “Take a chance on me. I won’t let you down.” And they did. They believed in my potential, and I embarked on a three-year journey—a journey that would shape my destiny.

The Diploma in Higher Education: A Foundation for Excellence

In those days, it was the Diploma in Higher Education in Nursing that awaited me—a rigorous program that tested not only my knowledge but also my resilience. I learned the art of compassionate care, the science of healing, and the power of advocacy. As I walked across the stage in 2002, a newly minted nurse, I knew my purpose had crystallized. But it was what lay ahead that truly ignited my passion.

The NHS Cancer Plan: A Beacon of Inspiration

Two years prior, the NHS Cancer Plan had been published—a visionary document that outlined our path forward. It spoke of nurses with advanced skills—nurses who could take blood, cannulate, and bridge the gap between theory and practice. I had never worked in cancer during my student days, but the plan resonated with me. It was a call to action—a summons to elevate our profession.

Haematology Ward: Where Passion Met Purpose

Upon qualifying, I applied for a role on a haematology ward. They didn’t usually take newly qualified nurses, but my passion was contagious. I left the Ward Sister with little choice but to give me a chance. And there, amidst patients battling blood disorders, I found my purpose. I learned to read lab reports like poetry, to administer treatments with precision, and to hold hands during moments of vulnerability. The ward became my canvas and compassion my brushstroke.

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre: A Trainee Chemotherapy Nurse’s Dream

When the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre welcomed me as a trainee chemotherapy nurse, I felt like I’d stepped into a sacred realm. The dark art of administering chemotherapy unfolded before me—the delicate balance between healing and toxicity. I immersed myself in advanced skills, knowing that each infusion held a life in its hands. Obtaining degree in cancer nursing expanded my horizons, and additional courses in oncology fuelled my passion.

Research Nurse: Unravelling the Mysteries of Trials

From there, I embarked on a new adventure—research nursing. Commercial trials, gene therapy investigations—I delved into the unknown, seeking answers that would shape the future of cancer care. The patients became my partners, their courage fuelling my determination. I stood at the crossroads of science and compassion, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

The Advanced Nurse Practitioner: Empowering Patients Beyond Hospital Walls

My pursuit of knowledge led me to a master’s degree—an advanced nurse practitioner in the making. But it was here that my passion took a new form. Nurse-led services became my canvas—a way to support patients beyond hospital admissions. Pre-treatment tests at home—simple yet revolutionary. I saw firsthand how empowerment could transform lives, I shared this through research publications in nursing journals and overcame my fear of public speaking through sharing my insights internationally.

Advocates and Open Doors: The Clatterbridge Legacy

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre believed in me. Advocates opened doors, allowing me to work on groundbreaking projects. National groups, high-fluting and influential—I stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow nurses, shaping policies and practices. My pursuit of knowledge led me to a master’s degree—an advanced nurse practitioner in the making. But it was here that my passion took a new form. Nurse-led services became my canvas—a way to support patients beyond hospital admissions. Pre-treatment tests at home—simple yet revolutionary. I saw firsthand how empowerment could transform lives.  And as I climbed the ladder— I moved away from Clatterbridge this was not an easy decision to leave the NHS but I wanted to enable more patients to received treatment out of a hospital.  I started at LPCH as a healthcare development manager to Lead Cancer Nurse—I realized that dreams were no longer distant stars; they were constellations guiding my path.

From Dreams to Reality: Deputy Head of Nursing and Beyond

Deputy head of nursing, head of nursing—the titles felt surreal. A girl from Wallasey, no A-levels to her name, now leading teams, shaping care, and since 2023 holding the title of Director of Nursing and Clinical Services transitioning from the senior leadership team to most recently being promoted to an executive board member, a significant milestone for “just a girl from Wallasey”. My journey from Ward to Board epitomises the essence of nursing—the persistence that defies odds and the inspiration that lights our way whilst reflecting the gender diversity in the upper echelons becoming an increasing reality for female leaders.