Teresa Hudson, Firefighter Paramedic

‘Fireman’ was an accurate term until the First and Second World Wars when in the UK and Germany, women replaced enlisted men, but it wasn’t until 1978 that women were formally accepted into the UK fire service and 1982 before Britain had its first full-time female firefighter.

In Ireland the first two women in Dublin Fire Brigade started in 1994, and today women make up just 5% of the Brigade.

Being a Firefighter Paramedic is a diverse role. No two days are the same. Teresa loves both the challenge of the work, and also the complete unpredictability that each shift brings. Although it can be gruelling; both physically and emotionally, nothing beats the feeling of knowing she has helped bring a life into the world or saved one from leaving. Teresa describes her mother as her role model in life. Although they have very different personalities and clash a lot, she is grateful to have such a strong, caring individual as her mam. Her mother has supported Teresa at every turn. 

Face everything head-on, take responsibility for yourself and your actions, don’t be afraid to admit when you’re wrong, own your emotions and most of all believe in yourself.

Photo: Beta Bajgart