Haley Hooper is the definition of a hardworking mom. She’s a registered nurse at Conway Regional Health System and clocks in for the busiest shift in the emergency room—3 p.m. to 3 a.m. When the 26-year-old gets home from the hospital, she’s a single mom to 5-year-old Maddox Fulfer and doting daughter to her mother, Susan Hooper.

In fact, Haley’s devotion to others at work and home is the reason Susan nominated her daughter to win Little Rock Family’s annual Mom’s Day Off, which includes hair and makeup styling, shopping, a glam photo shoot and a prize package from the stores at Pleasant Ridge Town Center. In Susan’s letter to us, she noted that she was proud of Haley’s academic achievements, her work as an RN, and her ability to provide for her son through nursing school, single parenthood and more.

What’s your normal work day?

There is no such thing as a “normal” day when working in the emergency room. You never know what is coming through the doors; you have to be on your toes at all times. One minute it can be calm and the next you have multiple traumas come in at the same time. I clock in at 2:30 p.m. and leave when the job is done. This sometimes means pulling a 13-14 hour shift if my coworkers need help.

What’s the most rewarding thing about your job?

The rewards of being a nurse are endless. It is an honor to be by the patient’s side through some of the most emotional ordeals. I go home knowing I have made a difference. I know that my job is strenuous and tiring, but I am able to serve my community.

Your mom said in her nomination letter that you were back to nursing school less than a week after you gave birth to your son!

I found out I was pregnant the night before nursing school started. At the time, I worked two part time jobs and lived on my own.

I remember the day clearly: I sat in the nursing director’s office, tears streaming down my face and thinking my dreams were ending before they even started. The director told me I had some big decisions to make. The journey would be much more difficult for me than the average nursing student, but it was not impossible. I knew I had to stick with it. I experienced numerous sleepless nights, shed many tears and remained physically drained. But I had a goal in mind—to graduate nursing school and become the best mom I could be.

On April 14, 2011 at 1:49 p.m., I became a mom. It was me and Maddox Cameron against the world. I left the hospital Friday night and do not think I slept the entire weekend. At 7:30 a.m. on Monday morning, I had my mom drop Maddox and I off at UCA and I took two exams—Pharmacology and Medical-Surgical—with my 4-day-old son by my side!

What’s the hardest thing about being a single mom?

After coming home from a 12-hour shift, it is time to take care of my family. Sleep is not an option with a 5-year-old boy in the house. Without child support, finances are always challenging. I am very hard on myself. This kid deserves the world and I will stop at nothing to give it to him.

Left: Haley wears a dress provided by Drew Cason Photography. | Center: Haley dons a blue shift dress by FRNCH and peach necklace, both from Beehive. | Right: Haley felt so comfortable in the Audrey 3+1 striped romper that she bought one to take home! Romper and necklace available at Beehive.

What’s the best thing about being a mom?

Being a mom is the best God-given gift one can experience. This little life that I brought into the world has caused me to experience so many emotions. Watching this boy grow, listening to his laughs, and sharing his many milestones in life is beyond rewarding.

And you’re pretty close with your mom, too.

My mom is my best friend. She is my hero and biggest fan. She raised me to be an independent individual with the readiness to provide for my family. My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2015. She has experienced three surgeries since January and is currently receiving chemotherapy. She is the strongest, most humble, Godly woman I have ever met. She has kept her faith and never once questioned God’s plan, even after becoming a widow. I will be beyond thrilled if I become half of the woman that she is.

What kind of impact did your dad have on you?

I was and forever will be a Daddy’s girl. My dad taught me about carpentry, fishing, hunting, grilling, golfing and fixing things around the house. My sarcastic humor I attribute to him.

In 2010 my dad was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). This disease has no mercy and is devastating. My mom and I were his full-time caregivers. On March 9, 2012, I held my dad for the last hour of his life. It was the longest hour. I not only mourned because I lost my dad, but for Maddox who would not get to experience the joys that this man gave me for a wonderful 21 years. It is an honor to carry on my dad’s legacy and teach Maddox all the skills he taught me.

What do you like to do as a family?

We enjoy anything outdoors. We love to kayak, fish, swim, ride bikes and anything else Maddox’s heart desires. He has an obsession with superheroes. It is not uncommon to see me in public with Batman or the Hulk at my side. He is my hero in so many ways.


Behind the Scenes

Thank you to our sponsor, Pleasant Ridge Town Center, and these amazing stores for supplying Haley with an amazing day and gift package!


Hair

First up: While Haley sipped a morning smoothie, the stylists at Salon L transformed her blonde locks into soft, loose curls.


Makeup

At Pout, makeup artist Kristin gave Haley a photo-ready look. Haley’s favorite product—the eyebrow pencil.


Shopping

Instead of donning her hospital scrubs for the photo shoot, Haley picked out trendy outfits at Beehive.


Photo Shoot

With Justin Timberlake tunes pumping through the speakers at Drew Cason Photography’s studio, Haley got comfy in front of the camera.


Prizes

Pinot’s Palette: Gift card for a painting party; Razorbacks tee, flip-flops, lip balm; bottle of wine, wine glass, corkscrew.

Fleet Feet Sports Easy Runner: 5K/10K or half-marathon training program.

The Dog Bowl: $25 gift card for pet products.

Pout: Beauty and skincare products, including hand soap and hand cream, bath bomb, Laura Mercier foundation, Bare Minerals mascara, eye shadow and more.