Father Of Five Fulfils Lifelong Dream, Becomes Nurse At 64

For many people, retirement signals the end of a career. For John Adesoye, it marked the beginning of a new one.

The 64-year-old father of five has fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse after graduating from the University of the West of England, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s ambitions.

Originally from Nigeria, Adesoye worked as an electronics technician in Greece before relocating to the United Kingdom in 2013. A year later, he joined Southmead Hospital in Bristol as a healthcare assistant, where a passion for caring for others inspired him to take the next step.

His journey saw him complete a registered nursing degree apprenticeship while continuing to work at the hospital, gaining experience across cardiology, accident and emergency, and intensive care units.

Reflecting on his achievement, Adesoye encouraged others never to let age stand in the way of their dreams.

“If I can do it, others can too. People are more brilliant and stronger than they think,” he said.

He explained that while he once found satisfaction in repairing broken electronic devices, caring for people brought him an even greater sense of fulfilment.

“When I was caring for electronic devices, I was happy when I could get broken devices working again. In healthcare, when patients get better, it gives me great joy and satisfaction,” he said.

Now officially a registered nurse at Southmead Hospital, Adesoye has no plans to stop learning. He hopes to pursue a master’s degree if the opportunity arises.

“The moment you start in higher education, you’ll see that the door will continue to open for you. It’s never too late,” he said.

His tutors praised his determination, noting that balancing academic studies with full-time work and family responsibilities was “no mean feat.”

Professor Steve Hams, Chief Nursing Officer at Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, also commended Adesoye’s achievement, describing his story as an inspiring reminder that it is never too late to pursue new goals.

Adesoye’s journey has resonated far beyond the hospital corridors, standing as a powerful testament to resilience, lifelong learning and the belief that dreams have no expiration date.