Win for Geraldton nurse

St John of God Health Care is celebrating International Nurses Day and, the role nurses play in delivering the highest level of quality care to our patients and the community.

11 May 2016

11 May 2016

Today Hollomby Foundation Nursing Scholarship winner for 2015 and St John of God Geraldton Hospital Enrolled Nurse Jasmin Rigby shares her nursing journey and what makes her proud to be a nurse.

“I began working at St John of God Geraldton Hospital after my husband began working there in the kitchen. I had finished my training and graduated but was not ready to work, as I had a 10 month old baby. But my husband mentioned that I was a nurse to Paul Dyer, the CEO, Paul asked me to come in and bring my resume."

Hollomby Foundation Nursing Scholarship winner for 2015 and St John of God Geraldton Hospital Enrolled Nurse Jasmin Rigby.

"After I registered I was welcomed as a caregiver with open arms.”

Jasmin has been an Enrolled Nurse for two years and earlier this year took the next steps in her career, “I recently began the registered nurse conversion course through the University of Southern Queensland supported by the Geraldton University Centre (GUC) and applied for the Hollomby Foundation Nursing Scholarship.”

The scholarships are awarded through the Hollomby Foundation for GUC students with sponsorship from local Geraldton businesses.

“Over 40 people applied for scholarships across education and community and other sectors. The outcome was based on employee recommendations and an interview.”

“Many of the questions were about Geraldton and what I bring to the local community, and how I support Geraldton and why I love working in the mid-west region of WA”

Jasmin was awarded the Hollomby Foundation Nursing Scholarship for 2015, with prize money of $1000 to aid her studies.

“For me it wasn’t about winning the money, but being awarded the scholarship made me feel supported, encouraged and that the local community believe in me and my abilities.”

“I love everything about being a nurse. I am that annoying person who loves going to work,” Jasmin laughed.

“There are hard days, when I do go home and have a cry, but knowing that I have made a difference to someone, whether it’s explaining a complex procedure, or just spending a few minutes having a chat, it makes me feel good to know that I am helping someone else.”

Jasmin will join over 4,700 St John of God Health Care nurses and midwives in celebrating International Nurses Day.

“It’s really is a self-less job, and it’s great to see the community recognising what we do and supporting us. I love the camaraderie between nurses and it’s great to share that love.”