Registered Nurse (RN) and seasoned healthcare worker John Connor is a 40-something-year-old father of one. The Sagittarian tells us more about himself and his tasks in this week’s Health and Beauty.
Who is John Connor?
I am a son of the soil who always believed that no matter where I go, I go with the intention to return home. I am a man who does not feel the need to be flashy, but is still able to stand out in a crowd. I was placed on earth to do good and be a positive influence on those around me.
How would you describe yourself?
I am respectful, kind-hearted, loyal, straight-forward with tactfulness, a bit reserved, private and cautious.
Fond memories growing up in St. Maarten?
Being able to catch a ride and go everywhere and the wonderful school and house parties which were great; we did not have such severe violence in or out of school. I also have the luxury of being my mother’s only child and one of many children of my father and knowing what it is to be an only child and to have brothers and sisters in the same lifetime; also being able to see a lot of faces from my childhood around me today and knowing that we were able to make it this far.
When and how did you discover your love for healthcare?
I was 13 or 14 years old when my mother began sending me to my aunt in St. Croix for the Christmas holidays. Her second son was very much involved with the Red Cross and other volunteer groups. During one of my vacations, there was an accident and we were the first ones on the scene to assist a young lady who was hit by a bus. Not having any kind of first aid training at the time, but with clear instructions from my cousin, we were able to stabilise her until the ambulance arrived.
Where were you educated, what did you study and why?
I was educated at the Institute Formation de Infermeria (IFE) in Curaçao, where I did the four-year RN studies. I wanted to go to the United States to become a paramedic, but at that time my mom and I were told by the then Education Department head that it would not be possible to get a scholarship to the US for such a study. I think the US system that was used (and still is) was not as popular as it is now. And of course being an island in the then Netherlands Antilles, the US system for many professions was not recognised. I did some more research and realised that employees of the then Ambulance Department were actually people from the Red Cross and drivers from the Fire Department and at times the Police as well. Trying to keep my goal in view, I realised that if I did the RN programme in Curaçao (which was recognised in Holland) and knowing that as a RN, my training and knowledge could be utilised on the ambulance, I decided to take that route for education and training.
When and why did you decide to return home after your studies?
I returned home immediately after graduating in 1994. My reasons for returning home were many. To name a few, I had promised my mom (the lady who sacrificed everything for me) that I would complete the RN course in four years; I left with the intention that I would return to serve the community that I held very dear to my heart, knowing that if I did not return, someone else from somewhere else would; I believed we prefer to see known home-grown faces around.
Employment history?
Right after graduating, I worked for about eight months at St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), from 1995 until 2009 at the Ambulance Department; and from 2009 until now at Inspectorate of Health Social Development and Labour VSA.
How did you feel becoming one of Country St. Maarten’s first health inspectors?
It is an honour and a challenge at the same time, knowing that we were not accustomed to having such positions filled in by locals. I officially started on October 10, 2010, (10/10/10) but was involved in the pre-phase of setting up the Inspectorate Department.
What do you bring to the table?
I brought close to 15 years of practical experience, training and knowledge of the different disciplines that make up our healthcare system, and the passion for looking out for the best interest of our citizens.
What does your task as a VSA healthcare inspector entail?
We are tasked with the supervision of all healthcare institutes and professionals in St. Maarten.
How challenging is it to function in such an important position in St. Maarten?
The function is very challenging. Most, if not all, of those whom we have direct supervision over, are not accustomed to having an Inspectorate Department established locally. It is also challenging as we do not have all the tools we need (laws) to execute our job; keeping a professional attitude at all times, with the ones we know and don’t know; not getting emotionally involved with the situations/cases we are confronted with due to our job.
What differentiates you from other professionals in the field?
My passion and dedication. I do not like to compare myself with others – everyone is unique – but I do take pride in my profession. I have and will always be ready to assist and serve anyone.
How do you approach your tasks?
I approach my tasks with respect, caution and by giving everyone the benefit of the doubt.
What do you like about your job?
I like how in-depth we can go if needed with our researches, and still keep things confidential, all in the best interest of our community.
Most rewarding moment?
There are too many to mention and by mentioning any of them, client/patient privacy can be revealed. But hearing a thank you and seeing a smile on someone’s face is very rewarding.
What are your healthcare concerns?
That everyone can get the (correct) care they need in a timely manner.
How do you think these concerns can be addressed?
When all stakeholders in our healthcare system can all come to one common goal and vision.
What is your advice to youngsters who want to follow in your footsteps?
First and foremost, realise that everyone has a role in our society. Recognise what your role can be and visualise it as well. There are no real overnight successes. You have to work for what you want and be consistent with it. And at the beginning and end of each day, you should be happy with what you are going to do or with what you have done. Happiness starts within you.
What are you involved in outside of your job?
I do some things with our local St. Maarten Aids Foundation. I also like sports and dancing; and for the last five years, I have been balancing more direct family-orientated things.
Future goals?
I would like to be more involved with the quality of service patients get both locally and abroad.
Hobbies?
Music, travelling, singing, dancing, meeting and learning other cultures.
Philosophy?
Nothing happens before its time.
Biggest fear?
Not being able to provide for and protect those who depend on me.
