College Student Battles Cancer to Pursue Nursing Dreams

Meet Shireen Connah, a student, who is determined to become a nurse specialising in palliative care, despite battling breast and bone cancer. With a big dream to help others, Shireen is not letting her health challenges stop her.

“I am currently on a 10-year treatment plan for my breast cancer, and while I await full reconstruction and leg revision surgery, I’m aware that there’s a chance things might not go as planned but I am determined to keep going!”

Last year, she completed the Level 2 Counselling programme and now she’s juggling Level 3 Counselling Skills and a part-time Access to Higher Education in Health and Social Care diploma to prepare for her nursing degree. Even though she has to undergo chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, and is soon facing surgery to replace a metal structure in her leg, Shireen is pushing through.

Right now, she uses crutches to move around, but she’s ready to learn to walk again after her surgery, which involves rehabilitation. Even with the risk of further complications or the possibility of needing an amputation, Shireen is committed to her goal of working in palliative care.

She said: “I am currently on a 10-year treatment plan for my breast cancer, and while I await full reconstruction and leg revision surgery, I’m aware that there’s a chance things might not go as planned but I am determined to keep going!

“My dream is to work in palliative care, and I want to give back by supporting patients through their toughest moments—just as I’ve been supported during mine.

“I wouldn’t have come this far without the incredible support from my tutors at Barnsley College; they have been key to developing my confidence, skills, and abilities. Their encouragement has helped me push through when things have felt overwhelming.”

Shireen’s Access to Higher Education teacher Vicky Whitaker praised Shireen’s determination to achieve. She added: “Her commitment to education is unwavering. Despite her health battles, Shireen maintains exemplary attendance, engaging in all her classes—even remotely via Teams when she cannot attend in person.

If you’re inspired by Shireen and want to study a part-time Counselling or Access to HE in Health course, visit the department page to apply. Alternatively, contact the Information Team by emailing info@barnsley.ac.uk or calling 01226 216 123.