Dan Laird’s battle with cancer began at just six years old when he was diagnosed with leukaemia. He spent three grueling years undergoing intensive treatment at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Now, at 33 and in remission, Dan has transformed his experience into a passionate career dedicated to helping other young patients.
Originally from Lichfield and now living in Dudley, Dan recently completed a nursing degree with a focus on pediatric care and has started working on a children’s ward in the Midlands. Reflecting on his childhood, he said, “I don’t remember much because of the chemotherapy, but my mum has told me how difficult it was.” Initially misdiagnosed with a virus, Dan’s parents acted quickly when his symptoms worsened, leading to a life-saving diagnosis and treatment.
His care at Birmingham Children’s Hospital left a lasting impression. “The care I received there is a big part of why I wanted to become a children’s nurse,” he explains. Throughout treatment, Dan participated in a clinical trial and continues to visit the Queen Elizabeth Hospital due to ongoing heart effects from chemotherapy.
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Dan views his challenging journey as a source of motivation: “I’ve turned it into something positive—it inspired my career. I want to give back the same care I received and be a source of reassurance for children and their families because I truly understand what that journey is like.”
Years of working in healthcare settings—from hospitals and children’s hospices to community care—preceded his decision to pursue nursing. The Covid-19 pandemic, and a 12-week isolation period due to being clinically vulnerable, prompted Dan to enroll in a nursing degree at Coventry University in 2023.
Despite academic challenges, especially in written work due to gaps from missing school during treatment, Dan persevered. “Practical assessments came naturally because of my healthcare background,” he shares. “I never stopped asking for help, and support from my lecturers and the Centre for Academic Writing helped me succeed.” Achieving his nursing degree, after earning prior qualifications like his BTEC, demonstrates Dan’s determination.
In January, Dan began his nursing career at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust’s Children’s Ward. As a male nurse, he hopes to inspire others to join the field. “When I was a child, the male nurse caring for me really stood out. We need more men in nursing, especially in paediatrics, to support those who might feel more comfortable talking to a man.”
Dan also emphasizes that age should never limit career ambitions. “You’re never too old to go into nursing. If you have the drive, just go for it. Everyone brings unique experiences. Ask for help, be resilient, and find what keeps you grounded. Don’t let age stop you.”