Sisters excel in nursing
A farewell ceremony for NorthTec’s latest batch of nursing graduates was a family affair for three Northland sisters.
Melanie Cuddy, 29, and sister Honey, were among the 45 graduates farewelled in front of their families, friends and tutors on July 29 on NorthTec’s Te Puna o te Mataraunga marae.
A third sister Kim, 31, who is preparing to start as a first year nursing student, was there to celebrate with them. Their mum, Patrina Cuddy, also graduated as a registered nurse five years ago.
The sisters, originally from the Hokianga but now living in Whangarei, are from a family of six children, and say their mutual interest in nursing is because they have all grown up with an interest in people.
Also achieving their Bachelor of Nursing were two students from Kaitaia, who have both travelled regularly from the Far North to Whangarei, while juggling family with intensive studying.
Ani Skinner has five sons and will soon be having her sixth child, while Shantel Naera is a solo parent to a young son. Both credit their families for supporting them through their degree and three hard years of study.
NorthTec’s Jane Anderson says ‘‘it’s also wonderful to see them complete their studies and go on to great jobs in their new profession, serving their community.’’