USQ Ipswich student Sony Antony in his lounge room with wife Asha and daughters Sairah and Serena. Photo by USQ Photography.
That is exactly what USQ Ipswich student Sony Antony is doing as he studies to become a nurse.
The motivation for his journey is close to home, five-year-old daughter Sairah who was diagnosed at birth with VACTERL association, a rare disorder which affects many body systems.
“She is the bravest girl and she inspires me every day,” Mr Antony said.
Sairah underwent her eight operation last month.
Having attended many of her hospital appointments and played an active role in her care, Mr Antony said he was inspired to study nursing to support other families experiencing similar hardships.
“I want to make changes in the lives of kids and their families,” he said.
“My wife is a nurse as well and because we couldn’t send Sairah to day care due to her condition, I started working as an Assistant in Nursing and progressed from there.”
Mr Antony studies on campus and online, with flexible study options allowing him to fit his study around his family life and work commitments.
“I was relieved when I found out I didn’t have to spend five days a week on campus because I mainly study at the hospital and at home,” he said.
“Our dining table has become a big study table. We all sit around it and study then move things to the side once we’re ready to eat.
“Being able to study alongside my daughters is very rewarding and I’m able to set an example to them that you need to learn to be successful in life.”
Now in his second year of a Bachelor of Nursing, Mr Antony recently contributed to a new online guide created by USQ to support parents in gaining a university qualification.
He hopes by sharing his story and advice he will inspire other parents to overcome the challenge of mixing family and study to ultimately achieve their goals.
“Nothing will ever go as planned, but don’t get scared – just jump into it,” he said.
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