From the early days of her childhood, Shelly Niles harboured a deep admiration for the men and women in nursing scrubs, recognising their pivotal role in the realm of healthcare.
Nurse Shelly Niles
Years later, Shelly joined nursing, offering compassionate care to those entrusted under her care.
EARLY BEGINNINGS: A FOUNDATION OF FAMILY AND CURIOSITY
Shelly, now 23-year-old spent the first six years of her life in Albouystown, Georgetown. She later moved to La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and despite being an only child, she shared that her cousins surrounded her.
Her educational journey took her through La Grange Primary, Parfait Harmony Primary, and Patentia Secondary Schools.
NURTURING THE DESIRE TO CARE: A JOURNEY INTO NURSING
As a child, Shelly harboured a fascination for the nursing profession, finding inspiration in the dedication and patience of nurses.
Since I was a little child, I have always admired nurses. It is a noble profession that requires dedication and patience. I was always curious about the job, and the more I learned about what nurses did, the more I found myself excited by the prospect of helping people in medical situations and being a part of that profession. My desire to care and show compassion is what led me into this profession. And I’ve lived by the saying, ‘service to man is service to God.’
After her secondary education, Shelly completed a medical assistant course, leading her to the Georgetown School of Nursing.
Following this, this 23-year-old delved into numerous workshops and training sessions with the Ministry of Health.
In fact, she recently graduated from the American University of Peace Studies and will be studying for her degree in general psychology at the same learning institution.
SERVING THE COMMUNITY
Dubbed an adventurous person, Shelly’s commitment to healthcare extends beyond academic achievements.
Over the past four years, she has immersed herself in various healthcare settings, including voluntary service at the Palms Geriatric Home and work at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
Nurse Niles during a recent medical outreach.
She has participated in the Ministry of Health vaccination campaigns and service in the West Demerara COVID-19 Unit and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
She also volunteers with the Specialist Medical Outreach Team (SMOT) – a group of medical professionals providing free outreach services.
A PASSION FOR THE TINIEST LIVES: THE NICU CALLING
This 23-year-old’s current role in the NICU at West Demerara Regional Hospital is fueled by her desire to positively impact the lives of the tiniest and most fragile infants.
The significant chance to positively touch someone during their most vulnerable moments is what drives my love for nursing. I’m currently working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and my goal is to help my babies recover and go home with their mommies.
My passion for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) stems from a deep desire to support the tiniest and most fragile lives. The unique challenges of caring for premature or critically ill newborns require a special blend of skill, empathy, and resilience. Being part of their early journey, witnessing their progress, and providing comfort to both infants and their families motivates my dedication to the NICU.
A VOICE FOR CHANGE: BALANCING NURSING AND ADVOCACY
As a senior Youth Ambassador of Empower Guyana Consultancy, Shelly is actively involved in a movement dedicated to transforming communities across Guyana. Her vision extends beyond nursing, aiming to improve healthcare standards, particularly in the maternal and child health sector.
CHRISTMAS IN THE NICU: A NURSE’S DEDICATION
While many celebrate with family this Christmas, Nurse Niles broke the day with the little ones under her care.
I believe Nursing is made more complex by the fusion of compassion and duty that occurs around the holidays, highlighting the nurses’ dedication to their patient’s welfare on special days.
A GLIMPSE BEYOND NURSING: HOBBIES AND ADVENTURES
Beyond the confines of the hospital’s walls and advocacy, Nurse Niles is a multifaceted individual.
She shared with ThingsGuyana her love for singing, dancing, swimming, and attending church, and a profound love for children.
FUTURE ASPIRATIONS: BALANCING NURSING AND PSYCHOLOGY
As she awaits the new semester to begin her degree in General Psychology, Shelly envisions a future as a NICU-trained nurse.
Her goal is not only to advance her nursing skills but also to intertwine her expertise with child psychology, aiming to elevate the standard of healthcare in the maternal and child health sector.
