HOHC: Fiona Gilder, Advanced Kidney Nurse Specialist

“Early in 2020 I was asked to write about my career as part of the preparations for International Year of the Nurse. Soon after, COVID-19 arrived and I was redeployed to an area within the Renal Unit to look after some of the sickest Covid patients outside of intensive care; I was redeployed for six months.

“Any thought to this went out the window, and now 14 months on, as we celebrate International Nurses Day 2021, it has been cathartic as I look back over my career.

“I left school at 16 and started work in an elderly residential home as my Dad advised me I would never have a career as an opera singer, which was plan A. So, to plan B. I started my nurse training at Kingston Hospital, followed by three years in intensive care (ICU) where I gained an invaluable skill set looking after acutely ill patients, growing in confidence as a nurse.

“In 1987 I joined the Trust to complete the renal course, my first reaction being admiration of the uniforms with a silver belt buckle and starched white apron! I believed I’d only stay in the Renal Unit for 12 months, but here I am 34 years later! I’ve experienced many changes and seen wonderful advancements that have undoubtedly changed lives.

“The Renal Unit offers a range of experiences and expertise to be gained as a nurse; I’ve worked in haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis departments, and as a renal ward manager. Thinking back has warmly reminded me of the many areas of the renal unit I’ve worked in and the skills I’ve learnt.

“Covid certainly dragged out those past skills; I’d never have believed we'd be caring for patients so sick outside of ICU. It’s unfathomable how we comprehend what has happened to us all and we all need time to adjust to our own experiences.

“I’m now back in my role as Clinical Nurse Specialist, supporting patients to understand kidney disease and providing information to support their decisions about their renal replacement treatment planning. As restrictions lift I look forward to returning to regular clinics/home visiting, and supporting decisions around home-based therapies."

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