I’m the only medic on the island – but I wish I’d brought some trousers

I’m the sole healthcare provider on the island, though I now wish I’d brought more trousers

Tammy Hine’s decision to relocate to the UK’s most isolated inhabited island might have overlooked a key detail in her clothing choices. During her move, she prioritized buying a banjo, guitar, bed, and sofa—alongside 150 dresses—only to realize the island’s relentless winds made the dresses impractical. “I’ve got to buy new trousers,” she remarked, reflecting on the oversight.

In February, Tammy left her life in Bedford, braving a 760-mile journey to Fair Isle, situated between Shetland and Orkney. At 50, she sought a new chapter, inspired by tales of a nursing vacancy. After securing the role, she now tends to the island’s 45 residents and visitors. Fair Isle, spanning three miles by one and a half miles, is celebrated for its knitwear, wildlife, and bird observatory. The position opened when the previous nurse relocated to NHS Scotland.

“I thought, ‘I’m going to apply,’ – I never imagined I’d actually get the job,” Tammy said. “My dream was always to live in a remote place, like Alaska.”

With 23 years in nursing and 13 as a palliative care specialist, Tammy brought expertise to the island. Her interview focused on her passions, including Dolly Parton and her banjo, alongside her yearning for a connection with nature. While she cherished her former job, she viewed this move as a chance to “slow down” and embrace a slower pace, engaging with the island’s community in a traditional nursing manner.

Tammy’s arrival in Shetland faced delays due to severe weather, which prevented her from reaching Fair Isle for three weeks. Despite the hiccup, she has since adapted well, stating she “feels like I’ve always been here.” “I’m enjoying the peace and quiet,” she added, “even though I’m naturally sociable.”

Her musical talents remain a vital part of her identity. In Bedford, Tammy was a member of the band Duzzy Avocado, and she still holds a deep affection for the city and its music scene. “Here, you kind of forget there’s another world outside,” she said, highlighting the island’s unique charm. She frequently joins in with locals, sipping tea and attending gatherings, even participating in impromptu performances.

“I’ve written some songs, but they’re about the moon, the Northern Lights, and the sea now,” she shared. “You don’t often get that on your lunch break at Bedford!”

Since her arrival, Tammy has encountered natural wonders, such as orcas on her second day on the island. She eagerly awaits the return of puffins, a highlight she’s looking forward to as the month draws to a close. “The bird watching is just phenomenal,” she said. “The stars have aligned.”