"Never give up on your dreams"
Date of release: 12 November 2024
“Never give up on your dreams.”
These are the words of Manuela Mundy, proud to be the first to take up an apprenticeship in Orthotics at Wolverhampton’s New Cross Hospital.
Manuela Mundy
Manuela, 50, started working at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust in 2018 as a ward assistant, before becoming a Health Care Assistant (HCA).
For the last four years she worked for the National Institute for Health and Care Research - Research Delivery Network, a role she loved but she wanted to progress into a patient-facing role and applied for an apprenticeship in Orthotics.
Orthotists specialise in orthoses, which are any type of device that can help or have a positive impact on a person's life. The most common example would be if someone has had a stroke which has caused weakness in their legs or arms, a device is given to help support them so it's easier for them to walk and reduces the likelihood of falls.
Manuela said: “The reason why I applied for this apprenticeship is because I love patient-facing roles, they are so rewarding.
“I wanted to gain a qualified skill and start a job which is not just a job but also a real passion and something that gives me a lot of satisfaction.
“It is such a nice feeling at the end of the day to know that I have made a difference to someone’s life by helping to alleviate the pain. I love helping people."
At the end of her three-year apprenticeship with Derby University, Manuela will be awarded a Level 6 Degree.
She added: “Although it feels challenging making a career change and returning to academic learning at a later age, I am feeling optimistic because I always have the support and encouragement from my fantastic team.
“I am looking forward to finishing my degree and after three years of a hard work, to finally become part of this incredible work family at New Cross Hospital.”
Manuela said she would encourage anyone to take the leap and start a new career.
She said: “To all of you listening my story, please don't give up on your dreams. It’s never too late, it’s never too difficult and nothing is impossible.
“Dream big, work hard and one day, looking back, you will realise that every late night, every weekend spent on the books it is worth it.
“Never give up on your dreams because mine started at 50 years old!”
Dr Nicky Eddison, Consultant Orthotist and Orthotics Service Manager, said: “I am delighted to welcome Manuela as the first apprentice Orthotist in our Trust.
“Apprenticeships are open to people of all ages, backgrounds, and career levels, they enable local people to access a range of career opportunities by providing them with the opportunity to earn whilst they learn.”
ENDS
- For further information, please email amy.downward@nhs.net
