A Warwickshire mum who once avoided hospitals due to childhood trauma has defied the odds — becoming a qualified midwife determined to support others who feel vulnerable in clinical settings.
Turning Trauma Into Purpose
Hope Jezzard, 39, from Southam, grew up with a deep fear of hospitals after spending much of her childhood visiting her mum, who battled Crohn’s Disease and was often on life support.
“I grew up learning very early on that people are fragile,” Hope shared. “My mum was often in hospital, wired up to machines. Although I knew she was being helped, it felt like I was being separated from her — that shaped my fear of clinical environments.”
A Life-Changing Career Shift
Despite her fears, Hope’s experience giving birth to her two children inspired her to follow in the footsteps of the midwives who cared for her. Leaving her customer-facing job in a coffee shop, she enrolled in a Midwifery degree at Coventry University.
“I want to help people who are frightened or vulnerable,” Hope said. “In some way, I hope it has an impact on my mum, who’s still very scared of hospitals.”
Encouraged by her sister, Hope began studying at night while caring for her children, even retaking maths to meet entry requirements. Her determination paid off — her first placement at South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust became a turning point.
She’ll now begin her first role as a qualified midwife there this November.
Facing Fear Head-On
“Going into a hospital was a massive challenge. I had avoided clinical settings for years,” Hope explained. “The first few shifts were terrifying, but over time, I became more comfortable. There’s no single epiphany moment — it happens organically.”
With support from the university, her peers, and her family, Hope overcame her anxiety and found her calling in women’s health.
Empathy as a Superpower
Having worked in pubs, estate agencies, and even running her own shop, Hope believes her customer service experience gave her the empathy and people skills needed to connect with patients.
“My compassion and interpersonal skills were driving forces behind my desire to pursue a vocation where I could empower others,”
Hope Jezzard
“Believe in Yourself”
Now, as she steps into her new role, Hope reflects proudly on how far she’s come.
“I doubted my ability and courage to start, but I’ve faced my fear and done it anyway,” she said. “You are capable of more than you think. Start the process and say it out loud — it makes it real and holds you accountable.”
Ready to Follow in Her Footsteps?
If Hope’s story inspires you, explore how you can train to become a midwife through resources like the NHS Health Careers page or find local midwifery courses through UCAS.
