Senior therapeutic radiographers at The James Cook University Hospital say attending a radiotherapy careers open day transformed their lives.
Lauren’s story
Lauren Husband knew from the minute she stepped foot into the Middlesbrough radiotherapy department that it was something she wanted to do.
She said: “I was 16 and the staff showed me each part of the department in detail and I shadowed the radiographers for a few days which had me in awe of how they worked with not only technology but built an amazing rapport with each and every patient they met.
“Fast forward to 31, and I’ve just been offered the biggest promotion of my career — becoming pre-treatment clinical lead. I feel incredibly proud of how far I’ve come and so thankful to every single member of staff in this department for helping me get to where I am today.
“Don’t get me wrong, the job is challenging but most importantly so rewarding. It’s the perfect mix of science and patient care.
“Sometimes the places you visit at the beginning of your journey can become the places where you achieve some of your biggest dreams.”
Jacinta’s story
After graduating with a biological sciences degree back in 2013, Jacinta Hunt was unsure of her next career step until she heard about the radiotherapy open day on the local radio.
She said: “The event sparked my interest in a profession that, at the time, I knew very little about, but ultimately led me to pursue a career that I have now been part of for more than ten years.
“I have developed my clinical skills and knowledge, whilst also having the privilege of working alongside and learn from some amazing people.
“I recently progressed to the role of senior therapeutic radiographer, and it is incredibly rewarding to reflect on where my journey started and see how far I have come.
“I will always be very grateful for the opportunity to have attended that careers event, as ultimately it changed the direction of my career and led me to a profession that I am so proud to be part of.”
Open day and apprenticeship opportunities
Attendees will have the chance to meet specialist staff, explore the department and learn more about the wide range of rewarding careers available – including new apprenticeship opportunities.
Danielle Clydesdale, senior therapeutic radiographer and practice educator lead, added: “Come and talk to us about the exciting career roles we have available in our cutting edge radiotherapy department and discover more about degree opportunities with our partnered universities and how to apply for our upcoming therapeutic radiographer apprenticeships.”
To find out more, email [email protected]