ORANGE hospital’s nurse of the year, Linda Harvey, has proved that with hard work and determination you can achieve your dream.
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At the age of 40, after working as an assistant in aged care, Mrs Harvey embarked on her nursing degree while juggling shifts in an aged care facility and caring for her husband and two children.
She says at times the study and the challenges were very tough.
“At times I felt like giving up, but I love nursing so much."
“I suppose it goes to show you are never too old to start your training."
Director of nursing Sue Patterson, who paid tribute to Mrs Harvey on Wednesday, said her empathy for patients was one of the contributing factors to being chosen as nurse of the year.
“She is an excellent role model, helps to educate junior staff and has a great approach to her patients,” she said.
For Mick Cobram, who has been at his wife’s side during a lengthy stay in hospital, Mrs Harvey’s award was well deserved.
“I think she’s the best nurse in this hospital - and I told her dad that too when he was a patient here in the hospital,” he said.
Mrs Harvey was humble in accepting her award.
“I’m not really very good at this sort of thing - accepting an award,” she said.
“But this is also about all the great people I work with.”
janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au