What a Nurse Doesn’t Take for Granted

Most of us wouldn’t think to call dinner with the family and a few pages of a book a particularly special evening.

Barb works in cancer care and has been a nurse for almost 23 years. Those familiar comforts are how she resets after a difficult day. Time with her family is what she looks forward to when she gets home.

At work, she cares for people whose everyday lives have changed. When we asked what people don’t appreciate enough until it’s gone, she pointed to what they recognise as their “normal life”.

“I talk a lot to my patients about finding their ‘new normal’ after their treatment has finished.”

It gives those ordinary evenings a little more meaning.

For Barb, feeling useful means helping someone understand what’s happening to them.

“Being able to explain to patients about their diagnosis and treatment in a way that they understand.”

There’s care in choosing words someone can follow. Her idea of a good day is leaving work knowing she has cared for her patients compassionately and respectfully.

When we asked Barb what people often get wrong about happiness, she spoke about how it can exist alongside sadness.

“People can still be happy even in the saddest of situations.”

We think that’s a testament to the strength of people and those who care for them.

When Barb looks ahead, there’s hope in the possibilities of her profession.

“The advances we have had in medicine and how those advances are going to continue.”

And what instantly makes her feel at home?

“A hug from my family.”

When she visits The Duck, her pick is either the Strawberry Cheesecake Danish or the Lemon Meringue Danish.

A LITTLE THANK YOU FROM US

We’re glad to have a small place among life’s everyday pleasures. This October we’re saying thank you to the people who spend their days caring for others.

From 12–18 October 2026, Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses, Assistants in Nursing and Midwives can enjoy 50% off cabinet pastries and house-made drinks at The Baker’s Duck.

Pop in with your staff ID or in uniform. We’d love to make a little room in your day for something delicious.

Available in-store only. Excludes bread, the dine-in menu, online orders, retail and merchandise, and pre-packaged drinks.