Growing up in Nigeria, I always dreamed of wearing a nurse’s uniform. To me, nursing was more than just a profession; it was a way to bring healing and hope to people in their most vulnerable moments. From a very young age, I admired the resilience of healthcare workers who stood firm in the face of challenges, and I promised myself that one day, I would walk the same path.
Early Life and Academic Foundation
My education began in Lagos, where I completed my secondary schooling with a focus on science subjects. I had a natural passion for biology and chemistry, which guided my decision to pursue a career in healthcare studies. While resources were often limited, I stayed determined, studying late at night and seeking knowledge from books borrowed from local libraries.
Every step felt like preparation for the bigger dream to qualify as a nurse. But I also understood that the road to nursing was not just about theory. It demanded practical skills, discipline, and the ability to work under pressure.
Moving Abroad for Training
My ambition eventually led me to London, where I was introduced to a field I had not previously considered: phlebotomy. During my search for opportunities to build healthcare skills, I came across the Phlebotomy Training Institute, a recognized training body in the UK. I enrolled in their intensive program, which provided both theoretical understanding and hands-on practice in venipuncture, blood collection, infection control, and patient care.
The training was rigorous, but it opened new doors for me. I learned to interact with patients from diverse backgrounds, manage anxiety during procedures, and master the technical precision required for safe blood draws. It was here that I realized the importance of patience and empathy, qualities that would also serve me well in my nursing career.
Becoming a Phlebotomy Expert
After completing my training, I began working as a phlebotomy expert in London. My role involved collaborating with doctors, nurses, and laboratory teams to ensure the accurate collection of samples and patient safety. At first, the responsibility felt heavy. Patients trusted me with their care, and I had to prove myself worthy of that trust.
Over time, my confidence grew. I handled hundreds of patients, from children who feared needles to elderly individuals with fragile veins. Each interaction was not just a task but an opportunity to reassure, comfort, and support someone. I learned that healthcare is not only about medical accuracy but also about human connection.
Continuing the Dream: Nursing Pathway
While phlebotomy became a stepping stone in my career, my heart remained set on nursing. The skills I developed, precision, empathy, communication, and resilience, prepared me for the next chapter of academic growth.
Today, I am working toward my nursing qualifications while continuing to practice in healthcare settings. My academic memorabilia is filled with certificates from the Phlebotomy Training Institute, notes from late-night study sessions, and memories of every patient who reminded me why I chose this journey.
Looking Back and Ahead
When I look back at where I started in Nigeria, I see a girl with a dream. When I look at myself today, I see a woman who turned obstacles into opportunities. Phlebotomy was never part of my original plan, but it became a crucial stepping stone toward a career in nursing.
My story is still being written, but one lesson stands out: healthcare is not just about reaching a destination; it is about embracing every step of the journey, learning from it, and using it to bring care and comfort to others.