How do you condense 43 rather unconventional years into an About page without writing a novel? Here’s the shorter version!
I’m originally from Renfrew County, affectionately known as the Valley, in Ontario, Canada. After a brief adventure living in the UK as a young adult, I returned home with a baby, a husband and eventually three wonderful children. Life took a few unexpected turns, including a divorce, several career changes and a move to the shores of Lake Huron in Ontario’s Grey Bruce region.
Finding My Way to Veterinary Medicine
I spent 8.5 years working as a receptionist in a busy mixed-animal veterinary practice, where I gradually discovered just how much I loved veterinary medicine. Curious about the science behind the cases, I began taking science courses, eventually progressing to a Bachelor of Health Sciences at Queen’s University.
I completed my degree while working part-time and raising three children as a single mum. Along the way, I developed a particular interest in dairy medicine and herd health, gaining further experience as a veterinary assistant.
After two unsuccessful applications to the Ontario Veterinary College, I decided to look beyond Canada. Offers from three UK veterinary schools later, I chose Bristol Veterinary School, drawn to its case-based and systems-based approach to learning.
A New Chapter at 43
And here I am! I’ve traded the familiar shores of Lake Huron for the rolling countryside of Langford, Somerset, and embarked on a four-year journey towards becoming a veterinarian. There will undoubtedly be plenty of studying, new experiences, adventures, wrong turns and the occasional question of what on earth I’ve gotten myself into!
A Few Things Beyond Vet School
Outside my studies, I enjoy writing, exploring new places, spending time outdoors and hanging out with my adult children. I’m also rather fond of discovering the little moments that make everyday life interesting. I’ve learned that life rarely follows the route we originally imagined. Sometimes the detours turn out to be the most interesting parts. It’s never too late to change direction, try something new or push beyond your comfort zone.
So, that’s a little about me and how I ended up here. Thanks for stopping by, and feel free to follow along as I figure out this next chapter, one day (and probably one wrong turn) at a time!
Onward ho!
