As a child, Michelle Barakat-Johnson and her sister once accidentally put the family’s baby chicks in the bath, thinking they were like ducklings. The chicks nearly died, but were saved by their neighbor who was a nurse. From that moment, Michelle wanted to be like her - someone who could make a real difference and take action in critical moments.

Michelle was driven to make a tangible difference in people’s lives and chose to become a nurse specializing in wound care.

Wounds can be painful and isolating, and Michelle saw the opportunity to transform outcomes and support clinicians in delivering the best possible care.

Being part of the panel for The Silent Hero Award means a lot to her. She says that recognizing and celebrating those working tirelessly in wound care is essential. The award provides a platform to highlight the dedication, innovation, and compassion of individuals and teams who make a real difference to patients’ lives.