Saying goodbye to City with Stephanie Coates
November 20, 2024
For over 130 years, City Hospital has served Birmingham and its residents. Over the years, countless individuals have started their careers there, dedicating their lives to helping others. One such person is Stephanie Coates, a Palliative Clinical Nurse Specialist.
“When I first qualified as a nurse in 1993, I never could have imagined how my career would develop. I joined City Hospital in 1999, where I joined as a Senior Staff Nurse in Critical Care. Those early years in the critical care unit were some of the happiest. The camaraderie we shared, the dedication, and the intensity of the work forged bonds with my colleagues that remain until today.
“Over the next 15 years, I progressed to Sister and then to Professional Development Sister, roles that allowed me to mentor others while continuing to grow alongside my team. In 2014, I became a Cardiology Matron, a new challenge that spanned eight years. The initial phase involved working across sites, but in 2015, I played a key role in centralising cardiology services in preparation for the opening of the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital. It was an ambitious undertaking, but I was fortunate to collaborate with an exceptional multi-disciplinary team. In the same year we won Cardiology Team of the Year.”
Like so many in the NHS, Stephanie found everything changed in 2020. “The COVID-19 pandemic tested every aspect of healthcare and every one of us in it. Based on my experience, I led the respiratory hub, later extending my responsibilities to the gastroenterology ward at Sandwell. It was, without a doubt, the most challenging period of my career.
“The team and I faced an extraordinary task: expanding care capabilities for critically ill patients. We introduced CPAP, and high-flow nasal oxygen therapies – interventions that stretched us technically and emotionally. Leading the team involved supporting their clinical skills and being present during the most challenging moments, including decisions regarding end-of-life care. Palliative care specialists became invaluable partners during this time, offering both expertise and empathy.
“Those days tested my resilience, compassion, and leadership like nothing else. Our respiratory team received a nomination for Clinical Team of the Year at the SWB Star Awards, recognising the strength and dedication of every team member.”
In 2023, Stephanie decided to make a career change. “After much soul searching, I chose to follow my heart into palliative care. Now, as a Palliative Clinical Nurse Specialist, I work in both acute and community settings, providing care that is as rewarding as it is challenging. Supporting patients and their families at such a vulnerable time is a privilege. Each day reminds me why I chose nursing: to make a difference.
“Reflecting on over 25 years at City Hospital, I feel nothing but gratitude. I will remember the remarkable colleagues, experiences, and lifelong friendships I have made. I have worked with some amazing, caring and compassionate people and I wouldn’t change a thing if I had to start my career again.”