Birmingham-based nurse and Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing at Birmingham City University, Ann-Marie Dodson, has been presented with a prestigious Cavell Star Award after being nominated for going above and beyond for her student nurses.
Having qualified as a General Nurse in 1981 from Selly Oak School of Nursing before moving to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Ann-Marie now teaching student nurses all week  as well as working weekend shifts in an intensive care unit to ensure her clinical skills stay up to date.
Ann-Marie, who has previously held the role of Sister in an intensive care unit, said:
“As well as a passion for nursing, I love teaching too. I feel we are all duty-bound to pass on our skills to the next generation of nurses. And I have a vested interest, as I may well be a patient one day and require the best care possible from a nurse.
“I want to make sure I stay in touch with hands-on nursing. And I love caring for patients, that’s what I trained to do. I want to use my skills rather than just teach them to others.
“It was a complete shock to win the award! The students gate-crashed a meeting I was in with other tutors and presented me with the Cavell Star Award. It was really special to be recognised by my students, it means a lot to me, I’m very honoured!”
A group of Birmingham City University students nominated her for the award.
Student Nurse Claire Carmichael explained why they made the nomination:
“Nothing is ever too much for Ann-Marie, she is always there for us students, 24/7 all year around. She’s an incredible human being and really deserves the award given to her for all that she does.”
Each Cavell Star Award winner receives a medal, presentation case and pin badge, as well as invites to attend special Care & Cake parties next year, celebrating the nation’s nursing professionals.
Katie Dixon, a fellow Student Nurse, added:
“Ann-Marie is one of the most inspirational, altruistic women I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, training with and being taught by. Working solidly six days a week as a Senior Lecturer and on the bank as a Staff Nurse at the weekend, the very little free time she does have is spent fundraising for charity. She is truly inspirational!”
Those wishing to nominate a nurse, midwife or healthcare assistant for a Cavell Star Award can find out more at www.cavellstarawards.org