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Cancer Survivor Becomes Children's Nurse
2 Apr
Summary
- Cancer survivor Dan Laird pursued nursing to give back to the NHS.
- He was inspired by his own positive experiences at Birmingham Children's Hospital.
- Age is no barrier, with Laird encouraging others to pursue nursing careers.
Dan Laird, a 33-year-old childhood cancer survivor, has realized his lifelong ambition of becoming a children's nurse. He was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of six and underwent three years of intensive treatment, including chemotherapy.
Inspired by the exceptional care he received at Birmingham Children's Hospital, Laird felt compelled to contribute to the NHS. He noted the significant need for more male nurses, particularly those who can offer comfort and relatability to young patients.
Laird commenced his Children and Young People's Nursing degree at Coventry University in 2023. He secured a nursing position on a children's ward at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust in January of this year, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to a fulfilling career.
He encourages aspiring nurses, regardless of age, to pursue their passion. Laird advises new nurses to seek help, remain resilient, and find grounding influences, emphasizing that age should never be a limiting factor.
