Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare. They’re there during your darkest hours, brightest moments, and everything in between. But behind every uniform is a person with a story—and this one includes night shifts, toddler cuddles, and a whole lot of heart.
For Kim Galea, nursing isn’t just a job—it’s part of her DNA. Her parents began their careers in nursing: her mum became a hospital unit manager, and her dad is now a global medical education manager and clinical expert. Surrounded by care and compassion from an early age, Kim knew that looking after others wasn’t just something her family did; it was something she was meant to do. And she’s been walking that path with purpose ever since.
From Student to Senior Staff Nurse—While Raising a Little Boy
Kim’s nursing journey started with a diploma and quickly progressed to a degree, which she completed with honours, while working and raising her son. Talk about multitasking. She now works night shifts at Mater Dei Hospital, allowing her to be more present for her little one during the day.
But working while the rest of the world sleeps comes with its own set of challenges.
“Some nights are unpredictable. Emergencies can happen at any time, and there are fewer staff on duty, so you’ve got to be ready, sharp, and calm,” Kim explains.
Being a Nurse Means Leading With Your Heart
For Kim, nursing is deeply personal. It means more to her than just administering medication or monitoring vitals. It’s important to show up with empathy, holding space for patients and families, and offering a calm presence in moments of crisis.
She also mentors younger nurses, helping them grow into their roles with confidence and care.
“At home, my skills give my family reassurance, and as a senior staff nurse, I take pride in mentoring younger colleagues while delivering high-quality care.”
Boundaries, Burnout & Breaking the Silence
Mental resilience is essential in a field where most people you meet are in distress. Kim doesn’t sugarcoat the emotional load: “It is important to be empathetic towards patients, but healthy boundaries are essential. I make sure to practice self-care so I do not become overwhelmed in certain situations.”
She’s also not afraid to call out the gaps in the system. “We’re still expected to juggle too many roles—nurses end up doing the work of clerks or pharmacists. Our focus should be on nursing care. That’s what we trained for. That’s what we’re brilliant at.”
A Call for Change
Kim believes in the power of policy to shape better futures for women in healthcare. “I believe paid maternity leave should be longer to better support women in healthcare. That said, I’ve been fortunate to have understanding superiors who respect my responsibilities as a mother, which makes balancing work and family easier.”
To Anyone Considering Nursing
“If you’re already thinking about it, you’re halfway there,” Kim says. “A genuine desire to help others is where it starts. Don’t give up.”
Because the truth is, nurses don’t just change lives—they save them. Quietly. Confidently. Every single day.
The Future Is Nurse-Led
Kim sees a shift on the horizon—more leadership roles, more preventive care, and greater autonomy for nurses. The profession is evolving, and she’s here for it.
Until then, you’ll find her where she’s needed most—quietly holding the fort while the world sleeps, reminding us that care, in its truest form, is both a science and a heart-led art.
Rebecca Galea is the marketing and web design expert for the Women for Women Foundation. She’s a single mum of two and has always been passionate about empowering and helping women in any way she can.
