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

I’m the Only Medic on the Island – But I Wish I’d Brought Some Trousers

Tammy Hine’s relocation to the UK’s most isolated inhabited island marked a bold shift in her life. She had packed her banjo, guitar, bed, and sofa, along with 150 dresses—items that proved impractical in Fair Isle’s relentless winds. “I needed to buy new trousers,” she remarked, highlighting the challenges of adapting to the island’s weather. The move, spanning 760 miles (1,220km), brought her from Bedford to Fair Isle, situated between Shetland and Orkney. At 50, she sought her final adventure, driven by a longing for solitude and connection with nature.

A New Chapter

The island’s nursing vacancy became the catalyst for her decision. When the previous nurse left for an NHS Scotland role, Tammy seized the opportunity. “I thought, ‘I’m going to apply’—never expecting a reply,” she said. Her dream of living in a remote setting, once tied to Alaska, now materialized on Fair Isle. With 23 years in nursing, she has experience as both a palliative care specialist and a district nurse. During her interview, she shared her passions, from Dolly Parton to her banjo, and emphasized her desire to embrace a more natural lifestyle.

Life on Fair Isle

Despite the initial hurdles, Tammy has thrived in her new environment. A three-mile (5km) long island, Fair Isle is known for its knitwear, wildlife, and bird observatory. She now tends to its 45 residents and visitors, becoming the sole medic. “I’m the only medic here,” she noted, adding that emergencies are managed with support from a Shetland GP practice, or via air ambulance and coastguard helicopter. The transition, delayed by adverse weather, took three weeks. Yet, she now feels “like I’ve always been here,” finding peace in the island’s rhythm.

Music and Memories

Tammy’s connection to music runs deep. Named after country singer Tammy Wynette, she was part of Bedford’s music scene with her band, Duzzy Avocado. “I absolutely love Bedford,” she said, “but here, you kind of forget there’s another world outside.” While she cherishes the island’s community, she also enjoys the quiet. “Everyone’s so welcoming,” she added, “and I’m having cups of tea with everyone.” Her spare time is spent jamming with locals and composing songs inspired by the island’s natural wonders. “They’re about the moon, the Northern Lights, and the sea,” she shared.

Wildlife and Whispers of the Sea

Her first days on the island were filled with unexpected encounters. On day two, she spotted orcas—an experience she described as “unlike anything at Bedford.” She eagerly awaits the puffins’ return at month’s end, calling the bird-watching “phenomenal.” “The stars have aligned,” she said, expressing gratitude for the chance to live this unique life. While she misses the bustling energy of Bedford, she’s found a balance between sociability and independence, embracing the island’s simplicity and charm.

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