Further promotions meant Amanda’s plans of returning to Wales didn’t materialise – instead Kent became her new home with her husband and young family.
Now head of radiotherapy services at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Amanda still loves the job she aspired to more than 30 years ago.
She said: “I was given good career advice at school, and I’d always considered a career in the NHS. I completed work experience within a radiography department which further cemented my aspiration.
“Therapeutic radiographers follow patients through their treatment journey and that’s what I love about the role, building rapport with patients.
“My dad died from cancer when I was seven, and perhaps the idea of working with cancer patients started at that point, I don’t know. What I do know is I enjoy caring for patients and knowing I am giving something back.
I love the job
“I’ve spent more than 30 years in the NHS – working my way to the very top of my profession – and I still love the job today as I did the first day I started.
“What’s great about the NHS is there is flexibility and the opportunity to be promoted even with part time hours and around family and caring responsibilities. If you’re prepared to work hard, there are great career opportunities available.”