A visit to the hospital sparks career choice for Keely Hayworth
By Diana Walker
Growing up in New Brigden, Keely Hayworth attended New Brigden School until Grade 8, transferred to Oyen Public School for Grade 9, then South Central High for Grades 10-12 graduating during the pandemic in June 2020.
“Throughout my life I have been surrounded by inspirational figures; the people in my life who consistently push me to be the best version of myself,” writes Keely. “With both of my parents being self-employed I truly had no clue for the longest time what I wanted to be when I grew up.”
Keely admires how much her mom Tera, a hairdresser, loves her job. She is also filled with pride when she takes an evening walk through town and sees the old rickety shed in which her dad Ardell, a mechanic, began his tire business compared to the two large shops that now house his business. Her brother followed in her dad’s footsteps working along side their father. But, Keely still asked, “What am I passionate about?”
Her answer always came back to dance.
“The hours spent in the studio in Consort at Tara’s Academy of Dance taught me what hard work and dedication is all about, what you put in is what you get out and most importantly the passion.”
During her 14 years in dance she assisted with dance classes and was a role model and leader to the younger students, providing corrective criticism and a positive figure to look up to.
“Dance isn’t about the awards, it’s about how it makes you feel no matter what you’re going through,” writes Keely. “It is there for you when you feel you’re on top of the world but also there when you feel at your lowest.”
Although dance is a huge part of Keely’s life she knew it wasn’t a career path for her but rather a hobby, a passion. Her search continued.
With grades always being her number one priority in school Keely worked hard and made the honor roll every year.
She resumed swimming lessons in Grade 6 and by end of Grade 8 had completed Level 10 and was waiting patiently to turn 14 so she could take her Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. She worked toward her WSI and became a certified swimming instructor by attending courses in Airdrie every Sunday during October 2017. The next year she took her National Lifeguard and got a full time summer job lifeguarding and teaching lessons at the Shirley McClellan Aquatic Centre in Oyen.
“During all the chaos of back and forth driving to Airdrie, I discovered a career.
“It was Thanksgiving and my grandpa had just had a hip transplant and was still in hospital. Dad and I took him out for supper and the evening. I was mesmerized as I watched nurses and doctors pass by and paid close attention to the kind nurse tending to my grandpa. This is it!
“Opportunities began falling in my lap,” continues Keely.
“In Grade 11, I began work experience at Big Country Hospital, Oyen working along side doctors, RNs, LPNs, HCAs, respiratory specialists, physiotherapists, etc. getting a real feel what the career field was all about.
“I was asked to be a companion for an elderly lady at the long term care visiting her several times a week until her passing.”
Keely couldn’t be more thrilled when she was accepted at the University of Alberta in their bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
“In the future I would love to combine my love of travelling and my passion for nursing to become a travel nurse.”
Update, January 11, 2021—“My fall classes went great! I am beginning my winter classes, as of today. I am still living in Edmonton doing my schooling online.”
Photo: Big Country Agricultural Society treasurer Diana Walker enjoyed a visit with Keeley prior to presenting her with a cheque. “Our profession will benefit immensely from a bright, enthusiastic and compassionate individual such as Keely caring for those in need,” said Nichole Foot, RN BN.