After nearly two decades caring for the tiniest and most vulnerable babies, Amy Farrelly says it’s the moments after families leave the nursery that stay with her most.
For International Nurses Day 2026, Mercy Hospital for Women’s Acting Divisional Director for Nursing reflects on the career, community, and compassion that have shaped her journey since joining Mercy Health in 2007.
From a baby’s first breath to the emotional milestone of finally going home, Amy has spent her career supporting families through some of life’s most challenging and joyful moments.
“We care for families at such a significant and emotional time in their lives,” Amy says.
“You never forget the resilience of the babies we look after, or the strength of their families. It’s a privilege to walk alongside them through those early days.”
A proud “Mercy baby” herself, Amy is one of more than 25 members of the Farrelly family born at Mercy hospitals. A connection that spans generations of nurses, patients and newborns.
That lifelong connection to Mercy Health is part of what inspired Amy to build her career in neonatal nursing, progressing from postgraduate studies in neonatal intensive care to leadership roles across the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Special Care Nursery.
Now a senior leader within Women’s and Children’s Services, Amy says nursing has given her the opportunities she never imagined.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to grow my career at Mercy Health,” she says. “From bedside nursing through to leadership opportunities, I’ve always felt supported to learn, challenge myself and continue developing professionally.”
Amy says the strength of the neonatal team is what makes the work so rewarding, particularly during difficult moments.
“There’s a genuine sense of teamwork in the nurseries. Everyone brings different expertise, but we all share the same goal, providing the best possible care for babies and their families,” she says.
“It’s the compassion, collaboration and support between staff that makes this such a special place to work.”
Over the years, Amy has witnessed significant changes in neonatal and women’s healthcare, including advancements in technology, family-centred care and clinical practice.
But despite the changes, one thing has remained constant: the connection nurses build with patients and each other.
“Some of the most meaningful moments are when families come back years later to visit,” Amy says. “You see these healthy, thriving children running around, and it reminds you why the work matters so much.”
For International Nurses Day, Amy hopes to celebrate the dedication and kindness of nurses across Mercy Health and beyond.
“Nursing is an incredibly rewarding profession,” she says.
“It can be challenging, but it’s also full of purpose, connection and moments you carry with you forever. I feel very lucky to be part of it.”
You can be a part of it too. Find out more about the diverse roles available at Mercy Health by visiting our Careers page.
