CDU graduate turns personal tragedy into purpose

This week, Charles Darwin University student Brooke Campbell will graduate with a midwifery degree she was determined to pursue after the tragic loss of her son. 

In 2017, Ms Campbell lost her son Darcy, who was stillborn at 36 weeks.

“I don’t think we will ever come to terms with having no reason why a perfectly healthy little boy was ripped from us,” Ms Campbell said. 

“No one ever plans for a stillbirth, so when it does happen, the people around you are incredibly important.” 

Since that devastating loss, Ms Campbell has been determined to help other young mothers, so she studied midwifery at CDU. 

During her studies, she delivered 36 babies, completed 136 hours of simulation blocks, and 1,120 hours of placement.  

Ms Campbell will join 730 graduates walking across the stage at graduation this week. 

Reflecting on her journey to graduation, Ms Campbell recognises that her most challenging moments have been the most transformative. 

“My graduation reflects long nights of study after caring for my children, balancing part-time work, the demands of clinical placements, and the emotional weight of learning to care for women and families in both joy and grief,” Ms Campbell said. 

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said graduation was a moment that brought every student's unique journey into focus.

“No two paths to university look the same, but the resilience it takes to get here is something every graduate shares. I really look forward to celebrating graduation alongside our students and the families who supported them," Professor Coulson said.