Pamela Copeland
Professional Clinical Practice BSc(Hons)
It was with sheer determination and strength that 53-year-old Pamela Copeland graduated with a degree in professional clinical practice. Though now working happily as a specialist nurse for a NHS trust, personal tragedy has often blighted Pamela's career.
"Many, many years ago I was due to start my nurse training," explains Pamela. "Unfortunately I had a bad accident and because of this I could no longer continue to work in the children's hospital where I was as a classroom assistant.
"I decided then to work in the private sector but I always kept my love for nursing. But as a single parent, bringing up two children with a high mortgage, I simply couldn't afford to do so."
Sadly Pamela's mother became ill and died but it was through a small inheritance which her mother left that allowed Pamela to start training again.
"When I heard that my application was successful I was delighted. To make ends meet I worked as an aide for adults with learning difficulties and as a waitress but it wasn't easy. It was the determination of wanting to become a qualified nurse though that helped me through these difficult times.
"Now I've qualified as a nurse I've never looked back. I love nursing and I've always adopted the attitude that if I'm interested in a job, I will accept it, even if it is a temporary contract."
