Wayne Fearon created history by becoming the first male to be placed in the top three of the Lasco/Nurses' Association of Jamaica (NAJ) Nurse of the Year competition, since its inception 18 years ago.

Screams rang throughout the room as the emergency-care nurse from the Mandeville Regional Hospital was announced as taking second place at the prestigious awards ceremony held on Friday at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

"I am really happy to be sharing in this experience because it has been the fourth time since I have registered for the competition but never advanced because of circumstances. To God be the glory. I told myself this is my time, and I am going to be proud," he told The Gleaner.

Fearon also noted that his journey as a nurse has been one that has taken courage and persistence, especially given the gender stigmas that are still attached to the profession.

"Over the years, when I decided I was going into nursing, there were financial challenges. I also encountered a lot of stigma towards being a male nurse. Though nursing wasn't my passion, I decided to take the opportunity and started caring for others, which eventually became a part of my goal," he said.

"Most persons were expecting me to win and wanted me to get the award, but I am very grateful for the opportunity nevertheless."

Fearon said that males should realise that there are no limitations and every possibility can be achieved.

"Within my community and the wider society, I encourage males that nothing is too hard, and no matter where you are, something good can happen. The sky is the limit."

- Delion Bowes