Graduation Tales | Determined midwife never gave up on her dream

Sian Preddy, from Bridgend, has graduated from University of South Wales (USW), 12 years after first enquiring how to apply to study on the Bachelor of Midwifery (Hons) course.

Sian, who is profoundly deaf and wears a cochlear implant, attended an Open Day in 2009 and asked tutors what she would need to overcome to pursue a career in midwifery.

Sian said: "I have always wanted to work in the nursing profession as I spent a lot of time in hospital growing up.  At school, I was told that this would not be possible as I was ‘too deaf’ but I have always had that instinct to look after people.

“Many years later, I set my heart on becoming a midwife.

“I found an adapted stethoscope and finally, after a few years of overcoming different hurdles, my journey to midwifery began. 

During her studies, Sian won two awards at the Womeninspire Awards in Cardiff where she was commended for her determination in following her dreams.

Now qualified, Sian works at Princess of Wales hospital, Bridgend.

Sian said: “It is a privilege being at each birth and at the start of a new life as it begins. I also love empowering women and providing women centred care. It is a privilege to be a midwife.”

“Since winning the awards, I have had lots of deaf people get in touch asking for advice in how to get into midwifery. I am always happy to help if I can.

“However, I cannot thank enough the tutors at USW, especially Debbie, who has been my rock and always advocated for me. She never gave up on me and I never gave up on myself.”

Debbie Lucey, Senior Lecturer, Midwifery, said: “When I met Sian at that Open Day all those years ago, we had a long talk about all the problems and difficulties that Sian could encounter. From that day, Sian set about finding solutions to them all and she has worked tirelessly to achieve her dream throughout her time at USW.

“Sian has been a pleasure to have on the course. She has always put women and their families at the centre of everything and nothing is too much trouble for her. During her time at USW, Sian has helped her peers, other students, University staff, and the NHS with Deaf Awareness, which has been very valuable.

“Sian will be such an asset to the NHS and I wish her all the best for her future career. I am proud to have played a small part in her becoming a midwife.”