In this episode, Donna interviews David Jenkins, a retired military veteran and NHS nurse, who shares his remarkable journey from a childhood in Carlisle to a diverse career in public service. David reflects on his upbringing, his decision to join the military at 21, and the challenges he faced during his six years of service, including the loss of close friends. Transitioning to civilian life, he discusses the difficulties of settling into various jobs before finding his calling in the NHS, where he ultimately became a registered nurse at nearly 50 years old.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The journey from military service to civilian life can be challenging, as individuals may struggle to find stable employment and adapt to a different lifestyle. The importance of resilience and adaptability is emphasised throughout the transition.
Building strong bonds with fellow service members is crucial, but the military experience can also involve significant emotional challenges, including the loss of friends and colleagues during training exercises or conflicts.
Working in the NHS requires a high level of empathy and emotional intelligence. Healthcare professionals often encounter patients at their most vulnerable, and the ability to connect with them is essential for providing effective care.
Pursuing further education and training, even later in life, can lead to fulfilling career opportunities. The transition to nursing involved overcoming challenges such as learning to use technology and adapting to new responsibilities.
Both military and healthcare careers can be incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Despite the challenges, the satisfaction derived from helping others and being part of a team is a significant motivator for those in these fields.
BEST MOMENTS
"I wanted to do something different. I had a couple of civilian jobs and I just wanted to do something different."
"You have to be able to run three miles. Always a minimum standard."
"I still think about them. They were here. And now they’re gone."
"You are trying to see the world from their perspective. And there are so many, many sad situations that we find ourselves in as nurses."
"If you want to care for people, or you care about people, it's a worthwhile career, despite all the ups and downs."
ABOUT THE HOST
Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.
She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.
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Email: Donna@lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr
This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.
