Is it time to embrace change?

One should never fear standing up for something they believe in, even if that means standing alone. For many years, the Journal of Aesthetic Nursing has provided me with a platform to voice my opinions in the form of the written word on matters that affect all healthcare professionals, but specifically nurses, working within the field of aesthetic medicine. I have raised my head above the parapet on many occasions, bravely stating opinions and addressing controversial and sensitive issues that have caused great upset and unrest among my peers and, inevitably, I have suffered personal criticism and attack. I have remained strong in my convictions and, more often than not, I have stood alone. However, I now find myself reflecting on and questioning whether I am seen by my peers as obstinate and dogmatic, with an outdated, inflexible persistence in my arguments and opinions.

I do feel like a broken record, stuck in the same groove, saying the same things over and over again, but am no longer sure if there is anyone listening. I was recently speaking to Dr Raj Aquilla, and he said, ‘Helena, you have been on a crusade since the day I met you.’ These words actually filled me with pride. I am a crusader, never giving up the fight for the field of aesthetic medicine to be recognised and respected as a true discipline of medicine, a branch of modern-day healthcare that should only be delivered by healthcare professionals, that is, doctors, dentists or registered nurses.