Name and position: Maleesa Raju Thomas, clinical nurse manager 1 - surgical ward, Mercy University Hospital.

Cork Profile

When you were small, what did you want to be as a grown-up?

I was fascinated by uniforms and had a desire to help people, so that piqued my interest in the healthcare professions. As I grew up, I realised nursing was where my heart was.

Tell us about your career progression to your role today:

I was trained as BSC Nurse in one of the reputed hospitals in Mumbai, India, where I worked in medical, surgical and bone marrow transplant units. I moved to Ireland in 2019. I began working in Mercy University Hospital Cork as an enhanced registered staff nurse and was later promoted to CNM1 (clinical nurse manager 1).

What is the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?

The most enjoyable aspect for me is seeing patients go home well. Someone can come into the Mercy unwell and anxious, and we as a team support them through their journey and their recovery. That feeling is priceless.

What motivates you?

I am motivated by being able to make a real difference in my line of work as a nurse in the Mercy. So, whether that is helping someone or comforting someone, small wins help me keep going.

What advice would you give your 15-year-old self?

I would tell my younger self three things: (1) Trust the process - don’t be in a rush, life is a journey, and you will learn something every day; (2) believe in yourself and speak up; and (3) look after yourself too - you can’t pour from an empty cup, and hard work is the key to everything.

If you weren’t in the job you have, what would you be doing?

I would probably be a social worker or a counsellor. I am passionate about listening to people.

What is your greatest life or career achievement to date?

My greatest career achievement is my career growth in Mercy University Hospital from staff nurse to being a confident senior nurse, and then being promoted to clinical nurse manager.

Who has had the biggest influence on you in your life?

My biggest influence has been my sister who is also a nurse. She taught me the values of hard work, compassion, kindness, and resilience.

What is the life dream now?

To keep growing in my professional life, have a good work-life balance, and continue learning.

How do you switch off?

For me, switching off is very important to avoid burn out. Outside work I go for a run and I enjoy reading.

What is your favourite Cork memory?

Running my first Cork City Marathon!

What is your favourite place in Cork?

Kinsale - colourful streets, great food, and a beautiful harbour walk.

Do you have a favourite quote or motto?

My favourite motto is, “If you can be anything, be kind”.

When are you at your happiest?

Honestly when everything is calm, I am at my happiest.

What is your hidden talent?

I am very good at organising.

What might we be surprised to know about you?

You might be surprised to know that I am very introverted outside my work, but when I have my uniform on in work, I am very vocal.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

Mercy University Hospital will host a nurse recruitment open day this Saturday 12 September from 9am-2pm in the main building (orange building), Grenville Place, Cork city, T12 WE28. For more details, visit muh.ie.