Subiaco Year of the Nurse and Midwife Spotlight Featuring Heather Marin

17 Nov 2020

What year did you enter the nursing or midwifery profession?

I began nursing at Royal Perth Hospital in 1973. Then in 1984, I completed midwifery at St John of God Subiaco Hospital.

After working as a Midwife and Registered Nurse in another Perth hospital and then spending seven years in London, I returned to St John of God Subiaco Hospital in 1993 to work on the Postnatal/Antenatal wards.

Why is this profession so meaningful to you?

I was inspired by other nurses and midwives, including my own mum.

When I was a student teacher, I also had a job as a carer. During this time, I worked with a lovely, caring and compassionate nurse who became my role model. She inspired me to leave teaching and become a nurse.

While training to become a nurse, I undertook a rotation on a maternity ward in Kalgoorlie. This experience made me realise that my passion was midwifery. The role of the midwife, supporting families’ at the most important and vulnerable times in their lives, inspires me.

I believe I will always be a mother at heart, and midwifery feeds my core passion and provides me with a sense of fulfilment.

What has been your proudest moment at St John of God Subiaco Hospital?

I have had many proud moments during my time at St John of God Subiaco Hospital.

Being promoted to Nurse Manager role after being at the hospital for only four months was a particular highlight.

Through this opportunity, I learnt new skills in nursing leadership and management. This led to further recognition and promotions, which I am grateful. I have seen our maternity teams excel in clinical and customer excellence.

St John of God Subiaco Hospital is a very special place to work, and this inspired my daughter to take up nursing also, as she observed the values in action visiting me and working as a patient care assistant.