“This experience has changed how I see my work as a doctor”

From Derby to Galway

I’m originally from England, from Derby, but my family are from Gort in South Galway. I came here to study medicine in NUIG in 2009 and finished my intern year between Galway and Sligo in 2015.

After that, I went into surgical training. My background is in general and vascular surgery, but after having my two children, I developed a slightly different view of my own skill set and what I wanted to do with my career. I joined the GP training scheme in 2023, and I’m currently in the first phase of my training.

A Full Circle Moment at Galway Hospice

This placement at Galway Hospice has been my first professional experience of palliative care, and it’s been a really lovely 360° moment for me. My uncle was cared for here 20 years ago, and it was during that time I realised I wanted to be a doctor. Coming back now as a professional and working with some of the same people who cared for him has been very special.

I expected to learn a lot clinically, especially because I had no background in palliative care. What I didn’t expect was how much I would learn personally — about communication, about the holistic way people are cared for here, and about how every member of the multidisciplinary team contributes. It’s been really beneficial and reflective of what my work in general practice will be like.

Understanding What Palliative Care Really Means

For me, palliative care is about supporting people with a life-limiting condition — offering a place of safety, trust and understanding, where people can be vulnerable and supported. I’ve learned that you can’t treat any illness in isolation. Every cog in the wheel matters, and every part of the team is equally important.

Working here has also taught me about balance. In acute care, you tend to maintain strong professional boundaries, but in this setting, you have to bring a little bit of yourself — to show patients who you are as a person and bring some of your personality while still keeping those standards. I’ve learned so much about self-care and about connecting with patients and families at their most vulnerable times. Everyone treats you with kindness, compassion and empathy. It feels like a community — almost like a family.

Carrying the Learning Forward

Soon I’ll be starting my first role as a GP registrar in Nottingham. I don’t think I’ll be as afraid of certain conversations anymore. I’ve learned so much about communication and teamwork, and I’d love to continue my education in palliative care so I can support my future patients better.

I didn’t expect to learn as much as I have. I’ve been very grateful for this experience — and just thank you to everybody for being so kind, for sharing their knowledge, and for allowing me to be part of the team. I’ve really, really enjoyed it.

– Dr Amy Fowler