How one compassionate leader helped me hold on to the veterinary nursing career I thought I had lost.

Fiona Leathers
Other
Westport Vets

The context

After dedicating almost 30 years of my life to veterinary nursing, I found myself facing the heartbreaking possibility of having to leave the profession I loved because of my health. I was at an all-time low, both physically and mentally, struggling to imagine what my future would look like. Veterinary nursing had been such an important part of my life, and the thought of walking away was devastating. I genuinely believed that my health meant I could no longer continue doing the job I loved. What I needed wasn’t simply someone to make adjustments to my working arrangements. I needed someone who would listen, understand my circumstances and recognise that, despite the challenges I was facing, I still had valuable knowledge, skills and experience to offer. Thankfully, that person was Fiona Leathers.

The action

Fiona sat me down and asked two simple questions: what did I want to do, and what did I feel I could manage? She reassured me that whatever I wanted, we could work together to find a way forward. I can’t put into words what that conversation meant to me. Fiona helped adapt my role so I could continue working 30 hours a week with complete flexibility. I undertake administration from home, have an office at Linlithgow to maintain contact with colleagues and can still do small amounts of clinical nursing with no pressure of fixed hours. Even our regular one-to-ones are arranged around my health. Her compassion extends across Westport. She organises staff wellbeing days, thoughtful Easter and Christmas gifts, and has established a dedicated wellbeing team. Fiona continually looks for ways to make colleagues feel supported and valued.

The ripple effect

Fiona didn’t just help me keep my job. She helped me hold on to a part of who I am. At a time when I felt I was losing my professional identity, she saw possibilities rather than limitations. She recognised everything I still had to offer and gave me the opportunity to continue contributing while protecting my health. Her understanding has allowed me to remain part of the profession I love, maintain relationships with my colleagues and continue feeling valued as a veterinary nurse. What makes Fiona exceptional is that she doesn’t simply offer kind words. She takes meaningful action to improve people’s lives, often putting the needs of others before her own. Fiona is usually the person making sure everyone else feels supported and appreciated. I would love to see her receive that recognition herself. She didn’t just see my challenges. She saw me.

Voting opens 13 November.