From Patient to Healthcare Hero: Mum Swaps Heels for Scrubs to Fight Covid
Kate Baker, once a brain tumour patient at Queen’s Hospital, has taken a remarkable turn. Inspired by the incredible care she received in December 2016, the Colchester mum has applied to become a healthcare assistant (HCA) to give back during the Covid-19 crisis.
Caring Inspired by Christmas Cheer
“Nursing never seemed like something I could do,” Kate admits. “But I’m caring and compassionate, so I thought, why not? After all, the hospital staff looked after me, so it’s only right I give something back.”
Kate recalls a special HCA from her hospital stay. “Victoria was amazing – she loved Christmas so much, she’d come in singing festive songs on the radio. I saw her comfort a seriously ill mum next to me, holding her hand and showing real kindness. I thought, ‘I want to be like her.’”
Victoria has since qualified as a nurse, proving how vital these roles are. Kate is now swapping high heels for flats as she steps out of her comfort zone to support patients when visitors aren’t allowed.
From Volunteer to Frontline Fighter
Before applying for the HCA role, Kate volunteered as a patient partner, helping hospitals improve by sharing patient perspectives. But volunteering paused due to the pandemic, pushing Kate to take up a temporary frontline role instead.
“My son Max, five, is so proud,” she beams. “He tells everyone I’m a nurse—some staff didn’t know this either! I’ve explained the role is more like an auxiliary nurse, but he thinks it sounds brilliant.”
Recruitment Drive Sees Hundreds Answer NHS Call
Queen’s Hospital launched a recruitment blitz to bolster staff during the pandemic. Hundreds have applied, with 48 healthcare assistants, two nurses, and 13 doctors already snapped up.
Kate’s story shows one patient’s gratitude turned into lifesaving action — a true NHS hero in the making.
