HIRD, Carol

July 15, 1946-April 29, 2020

Carol thrived on helping people and had an innate ability to connect with others. Born in Hull, Yorkshire, Carol was drawn to midwifery and nursing, completing studies in Hull and Sheffield before emigrating to Canada in 1972. Her work as a clinician, teacher, administrator, nurse and advocate in the midwifery movement greatly impacted her community.

Carol was a true leader. She was a champion of the Midwives Association of BC and served on the executive of the International Confederation of Midwives for nine years. Carol was deeply involved with lobbying successfully for the recognition of professional midwifery in Canada. In 2005, she received a certificate of honourary membership from the MABC "for her outstanding contribution to the advancement of midwifery in BC", including her role as President leading to the 23rd ICM Triennial Congress in Vancouver. Throughout her career, including her many achievements and milestones, Carol was most touched by connections she made with others.. Carol passed in the North Shore Hospice on April 29 after a 4-year battle with ovarian cancer. Her loving husband Brian was by her side. Carol leaves behind her stepdaughter Leora Gibson, son-in-law Trent Gibson, three grandchildren (Maeve, Torsten, Ella), her loving family in England and Canada, and so many great friends. The family is grateful to the caregivers who helped Carol. Donations to the Lions Gate Foundation or to a fund that will honour Carol’s legacy through a student award in Midwifery would be appreciated (https://memorial.support.ubc.ca/carol-hird/). To write a condolence to the family, please visit www.mckenziefuneralservices.com.