It's never too late to follow your passion

Thursday 20 February 2020, UCAS advice

by UCAS

It's never too late to follow your passion

UCAS

I always thought midwifery to be an honourable, worthwhile and varied profession, but having two less than ideal experiences of childbirth in hospital (23+ years ago), I didn't take the notion any further. It was only after having the wonderful experience of having my next two children at home that the role of a midwife took on a broader meaning. 

It was the attitude of my midwives that 'allowed' me to have the birthing experiences I did. In the hospitals, the poor midwives were disempowered by the system; they couldn't speak up for me & so I was disempowered too. At home, the midwives respected the choices I'd made for my births, and gladly supported me in a very unobtrusive & hands-off way. 

I decided I want to be a midwife who would strive to honour women's choices, and if circumstances should prevent the birth plan of her dreams, then dignity and respect can, and should, always be prioritised.

It is early days yet in my course; I am a first year and have yet to assist a woman in birthing her baby. I am challenging myself out of my comfort zone every day, as I believe this is how we expand as people, in our knowledge and  experiences. The course aims to broaden my understanding and outlook on life, as I care for pregnant women and their families from all sorts of different backgrounds and means. Midwifery challenges – it forces me to reflect on my biases, beliefs, and ethics. I know I will come away from this course better for doing it, and I don't just mean academically.

I am not particularly ambitious, or money led. I would like to use my qualification to experience midwifery in other countries, and do some voluntary work abroad in disadvantaged areas. 

I have come to midwifery relatively late in life, so I would also like to express to all those who feel they have left it too late, that you haven't. I am 50. Go live your dream!