Gemma, who lives at one of Hightown’s learning disability supported living schemes in Buckinghamshire, is breaking barriers with support from staff. Gemma, who is autistic, is proving that anything is possible after achieving an unconditional offer from Brunel University to study nursing.
Gemma’s passion for nursing stems from wanting to give back to the community for all the incredible support she has received throughout her life.
Gemma is pursuing a career in nursing as she says “it felt like a calling”, especially after undertaking a role as a healthcare assistant at a hospital. She thoroughly enjoyed the role and went to college to study Health and Social Care. Having just finished her course, she feels like now is the right time in her life to take that bold step and go to university to pursue her dreams.
Gemma commented:
“I think it’s a wonderful career to have as every day you go to work, you’re making a difference to someone’s life and helping to improve their health.”
She particularly wants to specialise in paediatric nursing because she hopes to bring comfort and joy to children during difficult times and support their journey to better health. “They are so vulnerable in what they are going through. If I can give a little bit of happiness to them and a bit of imagination while providing them with the care they deserve, it will make every moment of my career worthwhile.”
Alongside Gemma’s aspirations of children’s nursing, she has been gaining independence and self-confidence daily since moving into her supported living home three years ago.
Gemma said:
“What I enjoy most is my freedom. I can cook and go out to London with support, or I can head out on my own. But the great thing is I know there is always support from staff to help me learn.”
In her spare time, Gemma likes to paint and write children’s stories. She is currently writing a book on a young boy and a unicorn’s adventure. She hopes to one day be able to share her story on a children’s ward to give those children some happiness and imagination.
Reflecting on her own journey with autism and pursuing her goals, Gemma’s advice to anyone on a similar path is:
