#TeamNorthMid blogs

Words by Hazel Manzano

In life, it's not always about the cards we are dealt but rather how we respond to challenges and persevere to achieve our goals. My name is Hazel Manzano, and I am the eldest of six children in a middle-class family from the Philippines. Despite not being born with innate intellectual abilities, I firmly believe in the power of tenacity and determination to shape my future.

During my childhood, my family encountered various financial obstacles. We were a large family of six children and providing us all with the necessary financial means to pursue education seemed like an insurmountable task for my parents. Their salaries were simply not enough to support each of us adequately. Faced with this reality, I understood the importance of finding a solution.

Driven by my desire to pursue a nursing degree, I embarked on a journey of dedicated study and unwavering determination. My goal was to secure a scholarship that would alleviate the financial burden on my family. Along the way, I encountered numerous challenges that tested my resolve. However, I refused to be deterred.

With each obstacle that presented itself, I held onto my perseverance and resilience. I remained steadfast in my pursuit, knowing that the road ahead would not be easy. But I was determined to overcome any hurdles that stood in my way.

Through hard work, countless hours of studying, and the support of mentors and loved ones, I succeeded in securing the scholarship I had dreamed of. It was a pivotal moment not just for me, but for my entire family. This achievement brought us hope and renewed faith in the power of determination.

The journey was not easy, but together, we made it through. Among my siblings, three are now nurses, one is a medical technologist, one is a professor in a university, and one is a successful businesswoman. Each of our individual successes has brought immense pride to our parents and serves as a testament to the power of hard work and determination.

For me, nursing is not just a profession; it is a true calling that brings me immense fulfilment. Specifically, working as a neonatal nurse and a leader has allowed me to make a difference in the lives of others. Guided by my personal values of self-care, courageous commitment, and empathetic truth, I have learned that being self-aware of these values has transformed me not only as a nurse but also as a mother, wife, and woman. I have developed insight and sensitivity to the needs of others, making myself available and visible to both my team and my family.

My dedication and commitment have not gone unnoticed. I have been nominated and honoured as a finalist in various national awards for the positive impact I have made on babies, families, and staff. This recognition further fuels my passion to continue making a difference in the lives of those I encounter.

My journey as a nurse and an individual has taught me that intelligence alone does not determine success. It is the unwavering belief in oneself, coupled with tenacity and perseverance, that paves the way for personal and professional achievements. Overcoming financial challenges and embracing my vocation as a nurse has allowed me to find purpose and fulfilment in my life.

My journey serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, with unwavering determination and a commitment to hard work, we can overcome the most daunting challenges. It is a testament to the strength that lies within us when we set our minds to achieving our goals.

I share this story with the hope that it inspires others who may be facing similar financial obstacles or pursuing their dreams against all odds. No matter the circumstances, remember that perseverance and unwavering determination can lead to remarkable achievements, and the potential to inspire others and make a lasting impact…making a difference in the lives of others.

 

We thank Hazel for taking part in our #ThisIsMe blog series which focuses on the incredible diversity of our workforce across North Mid, beyond the usual protected characteristics of age, disability, ethnicity, religious beliefs, gender, sex and sexual orientation.

Please help us encourage fellow Trust colleagues to do the same by sharing this post.

Feel free to share any feedback or comments. If you wish to share your own story or think you know colleague who might want to share their thoughts, ideas and experiences about diversity, please contact our communications team at northmid.comms@nhs.net.