Cheryll Hornigold reflects on her journey into the world of nursing. From student nurse to receiving a Queen’s Nursing award.
“I never envisioned myself as a nurse during my teenage years. My initial ambition was simply to work with children, leading me to pursue nursery nurse training after leaving school. Blood made me queasy, and the thought of becoming a nurse didn’t even cross my mind until I found myself on a placement at Airedale Hospital’s children’s ward. It was there, surrounded by dedicated nurses, that something clicked within me, and I knew that nursing was my calling”
As we celebrate International Nurses Day today, I can’t help but reflect on my own journey into the world of nursing. It’s a journey that began unexpectedly, guided by a passion for caring for others and fuelled by determination.
I never envisioned myself as a nurse during my teenage years. My initial ambition was simply to work with children, leading me to pursue nursery nurse training after leaving school. Blood made me queasy, and the thought of becoming a nurse didn’t even cross my mind until I found myself on a placement at Airedale Hospital’s children’s ward. It was there, surrounded by dedicated nurses, that something clicked within me, and I knew that nursing was my calling.
My path into nursing wasn’t without its challenges. Moving from the serene Yorkshire Dales to the bustling city of Hull marked the beginning of my formal training as an adult nurse. The Project 2000 diploma program tested my mettle, but with perseverance and a genuine desire to learn, I emerged successful.
My nursing career took me through various specialties, from medical and rheumatology wards to acute and general surgery. Along the way, I encountered remarkable mentors and colleagues who shaped my journey and instilled in me the values of compassion and dedication.
One particular area of nursing that captured my interest was infection prevention and control. My fascination with bugs and viruses led me to specialise in this field, where I found fulfilment in educating others and implementing strategies to safeguard patients and staff.
The past few years have brought unprecedented challenges, particularly with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a shielding individual due to my own health condition, my role as an infection prevention and control nurse took on a new dimension. Despite the obstacles, my team and I adapted, leveraging technology to continue our vital work and support the community through uncertain times.
Being recognised as a Queen’s Nurse was a humbling moment in my career, reaffirming my commitment to providing high-quality care to those in need. Now, as I embark on new educational endeavours, I am excited to further enhance my skills and contribute to the evolving landscape of infection prevention and control. Reflecting on my journey, I am reminded of the profound impact that nursing has had on my life. It’s a profession filled with challenges, but also immense rewards. For anyone considering a career in nursing, I wholeheartedly encourage you to pursue your passion. Whether in a specialised role like mine or in a different area of healthcare, nursing offers endless opportunities for growth, learning, and above all, making a difference in the lives of others.
Cheryll Hornigold – Infection Prevention and Control Nurse
