Ryman’s Nurse of the Year finalists reveal why they chose nursing

Leodicia Harris has a very personal reason for choosing nursing as her career.

“I was born with a congenital heart defect, resulting in me having three open heart surgeries and multiple small procedures when I was young,” says the Jane Mander Village enrolled nurse.

“Being looked after by wonderful nurses as a little girl really inspired me to be someone that looked after people and made me want to help others.”

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Now, Leodicia takes daily medications, has annual check-ups and keeps fit and healthy and says her condition has no impact on her daily living or her ability to perform at work, other than a strong awareness of what it’s like to be a patient.

“I work in the special care unit and I enjoy knowing the care to my residents is making a big impact and difference, not only to our residents but to their families as well.

“I find it rewarding when my residents are happy and when I go home knowing they are settled and that I have given a good hand over. Communication is key.”

For Anthony Wilding registered nurse Janet Bucag, a nursing career was a very popular option in her home country of the Philippines.

“As I began working and became fully engaged in the field, I discovered a profound dedication and passion for helping others and positively influencing their lives.”

But it was working in a residential care facility that really focused Janet’s mind.

“I have a genuine passion for helping and caring for the elderly. I realised I had an ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our most vulnerable residents.

“It is gratifying to see patients improve, knowing that I played a role in their recovery.”

For Chrissy Toa, registered nurse at Princess Alexandra Village, building relationships with residents and their families is the best part of the job.

“Getting to know the residents and the families, that’s what I love. Because then you can cater for their needs better.”

Chrissy has worked at Ryman’s Napier village for 19 years, initially as a caregiver. It was her drive to be able to do more for her residents that inspired her to become a nurse over 10 years ago, finally realising a childhood dream.

“It was something inside of me. Since I was a kid, I wanted to be able to be there for people and help people.”

There are challenges, she says. Working in the hospital wing means many residents are nearing the end of their lives.

“It’s not easy because you know why our residents are there, but being with them until the end is what makes it such a privilege. You focus on the good that you have done for those people and their families.”

All three say it is crucial to recognise the work that nurses do.

“Because to be a nurse you’ve got to be compassionate,” Chrissy says. “A lot of our nurses put everything into their job, and it’s not just a job. They make a real big difference and they’re amazing.”

Says Leodicia: “We make such a big impact on our residents’ lives and their families’ lives so it’s very important to acknowledge nurses.”

Janet agrees: “Recognising nurses’ dedication and hard work not only boosts morale but also highlights the vital contribution they make to the healthcare system and society as a whole.”