A DUNDONALD woman has realised a lifelong ambition by starting work as a midwife in the same maternity unit where she gave birth to her children.
Hayley Hobday began her new role at the Ulster Hospital on July 16 after qualifying as a midwife, completing a journey that began when she became a patient in the hospital’s maternity ward.
The first person in her family to attend university, Ms Hobday said she had always dreamed of returning to the Ulster Hospital as a midwife.
Reflecting on her journey, she said: “I started working at the Ulster Hospital after I had my second daughter as a service assistant. I loved being around patients and I was always drawn to pick up shifts in the maternity unit.
“I always said that when my youngest child started primary school, I would make my dreams a reality. I completed a full-time access course over two years and then applied only for midwifery. I got in first time.”
Although her university placements were originally due to take place in the Belfast Trust, an opportunity arose to switch to the South Eastern Trust.
“I jumped at the chance,” she said. “When I had my daughter at the Ulster Hospital, I
always imagined that one day
I would come back as a midwife. I worked really hard to get here and I am so proud to now be wearing my blue uniform.”
Ms Hobday said she believes midwifery is a rewarding career and hopes to provide the same support to expectant mothers that inspired her to pursue the profession.
“You are so privileged. To become a midwife is something that I have always been passionate about,” she said.
“Having my daughter really empowered me. Women’s health needs supportive women who will stand beside them to support and advocate for them.
“I feel that women go through such a vulnerable time in their pregnancies and in giving birth. As a midwife, by providing the most compassionate support can make a mum’s journey so much better.”
