Caroline Halloway’s journey in nursing from Ohio to Nova Scotia

The ICU team at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre in Amherst welcomed a new face this summer, thanks in part to a Nova Scotia Health social media recruitment campaign.

Registered nurse (RN) Caroline Halloway made the 2,000-kilometre trek from Ohio to Amherst with her family after being captivated by the recruitment campaign. 

Caroline is originally from Brazil, where she began her studies in law. But after the loss of her father, she began to reflect on the importance of compassionate healthcare, something she felt motivated to contribute to herself. When she later moved to the United States, she shifted her career path and entered nursing school. “I started as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), then worked my way up to becoming an RN,” Caroline explains. “I’ve worked in intensive care, hemodialysis. and cardiac recovery. Nursing wasn’t my first choice, but it became my passion.”

While raising two young daughters, Caroline began to feel the pace of life in the U.S. wasn’t what she wanted for her family. “There’s a lot going on in the States, and I didn’t feel like it was the safest place to raise my kids. We wanted out. I missed the ocean, and when we came to Canada before, I remember how kind everyone was,” she says.

When she saw an advertisement from Nova Scotia Health promoting nursing opportunities in Nova Scotia, Caroline felt the timing was right. “I knew this was it, our chance for a safer, more laid-back lifestyle. No busy city, no traffic, just community and nature.”

While she admits to having some initial nerves about moving to a new country, she found the community to be very welcoming. “We came in on a Saturday night, and by 11 p.m., our neighbours were outside introducing themselves. Even finding housing was made easier by a colleague at the hospital who connected us to a landlord.”

Now settled into her role in the ICU, Caroline describes her work as both challenging and deeply rewarding. “We take care of the severely ill patients in the hospital. As an ICU nurse, you coordinate everything. Working with physicians, allied health and families. You need to be flexible, detailed and knowledgeable because our patients are so vulnerable.”

The best part for her is seeing patients improve. “It’s the progress. The moment you see them getting better, that makes everything worthwhile.”

Outside of work, Caroline and her family are embracing life in Amherst. They spend weekends hiking, visiting beaches and exploring farmers markets. “My girls love going to the zoo in Moncton. We’re always outdoors, it’s been such a great change for us.”

For other nurses considering a move, Caroline has simple advice: “Come. You will not regret it. International moves can bring some stress but know that people here will help you. Communicate your needs and trust the process. Nova Scotia makes it smooth.”

Caroline’s journey is a reminder of the impact that safe communities, supportive colleagues and meaningful work can have on both individuals and families. Interested in working as a nurse for Nova Scotia Health? Apply today!