Mrs Scalora said it was a career she was always interested in, so after graduating she headed off to the big smoke in Sydney where she completed her training with TAFE and at Concord Hospital. 

She returned to Leeton after earning her qualifications and hasn't looked back since. 

"I've been working here (at the Leeton District Hospital) since 1995 … I've had my kids during that time as well," Mrs Scalora said.  

"I started off in Carramar and eventually moved upstairs (to the general ward). 

"I've definitely seen some changes."

Over the years Mrs Scalora has completed training to stay up-to-date, including emergency qualifications, a midwifery course and more. 

As with any career, nursing has brought many rewards along the way for Mrs Scalora. 

What she enjoys most and, what drew her to become a nurse in the first place, was the idea of helping people. 

RELATED

"Helping people is a great feeling," Mrs Scalora said. 

"They come in at their worst and you help them along. 

"You see people having babies, friends having babies, it's really special. 

"You also get that rapport with people too. Especially living in the country. It's really good."

However, nursing is a job that comes with great responsibility and expectations, meaning there can be some hard times. 

"Palliative care can be really hard, especially when you know the person or their family who are there with them," Mrs Scalora said. 

"You don't get used to that. It can be really hard. 

"It's definitely hard getting out of bed sometimes too (for shift work)."

Many nurses will admit the career is not for everyone and it takes a unique person to be able to give their lives to the profession. 

More young people are needed as the years go on and Mrs Scalora suggested their training should include more hand-on requirements.

"I think that would give them a better idea of what it's about," she said. 

****

While you’re with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you’re up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.