Publish date: 16 October 2023
Sharon meets Sharon – nurse names baby after her supportive ward manager
Being a ward manager at a busy North East hospital means Sharon Hardy has to deal with many different situations – but one of her nurses naming her baby after her was one she hadn’t experienced before…
Belema Darego, known as Belle, who works as a staff nurse on ward 2 at Wansbeck General Hospital in Ashington, named her new baby girl Sharon because of her affection and respect for her ward manager.
The 40-year-old, who started working at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in January 2022, explained why she has such regard for her ward manager Sharon.
“I’ve learned a lot from her, she’s smart and intelligent, and she seems to know what to do all of the time,” Belle said. “I always look forward to seeing her and I really want to do what she does when I get to her position.
“When I started, she made me feel welcome, she made me want to learn and to open up. She’s really good at listening, even when she’s busy and there are pressures to deal with. Even when she corrects you for something, it comes from love.”
The decision on the baby’s name was made after Sharon ended up accompanying Belle to the scan which revealed the sex. Belle, who also has two sons, said: “I jumped up with the jelly on my belly and said, ‘it’s a girl so I will name her Sharon!”
It was not official until the eight-day naming ceremony took place, a cultural tradition for Belle’s family, who are originally from Nigeria, but now the two Sharons have met.
“In my culture, the native name usually comes first, but her dad said ‘no, she is Sharon, so her English name comes first!” added Belle.
Sharon said: “I am really touched that Belle decided to name her baby after me, even though I have only done what I would for anyone on my ward.
“I always try to look after my team, to support and guide them, because that is the best way of developing a positive working environment, which helps us deliver great care for our patients.”
Sue Ewart, Northumbria Healthcare’s chief matron for medicine and emergency care, added: “This was such a heart-warming story to hear and reflects so well on the culture that exists within our trust. We will always try to ensure staff feel welcome and supported.”
Media contact
Ben O’Connell, external communications manager, Northumbria Healthcare
Benjamin.O'Connell@northumbria-healthcare.nhs.ukor