On Tuesday, 13th March, I had the privilege of being part of an inspiring Education Day in Wagga Wagga, hosted by the Murrumbidgee Local Health District Palliative Care Service. Held in recognition of Palliative Care Week, the event was a powerful reminder of the dedication, compassion, and curiosity that defines our healthcare workforce.
The theme for the day — “What’s the Plan?” — invited reflection on how we approach care, planning, and communication in palliative settings. It brought together more than 60 healthcare professionals from across the region, forming a diverse and vibrant group united by a shared commitment to quality care. Nurses, dietitians, social workers, occupational therapists, and doctors from various specialties — including aged care — all gathered with open minds and full hearts.
From the very beginning, the energy in the room was unmistakable. It wasn’t just a professional development day; it felt like a community coming together. Each session sparked thoughtful questions, lively discussions, and valuable insights. The curiosity and engagement from participants highlighted just how deeply these professionals care — not only about improving their knowledge and skills but about the people and families they support every day.
I had the joy of presenting one of the sessions, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with this group of beautiful people. I began by asking a simple question: “Who do you care for?”
Voices rang out across the room — patients, families, children, parents, siblings, colleagues, pets — and we listed every response on the board. We were seven or eight deep into the list when someone finally said, almost as an afterthought, “Myself.”
That moment brought a quiet pause, followed by reflective nods. I gently asked, “I wonder why you only thought of yourself after you had run out of choices?”
It was a powerful moment — a collective realization that while our work is focused on others, we must not forget to care for ourselves too. Self-care is not an optional extra; it’s essential to the sustainability of compassionate care.
The feedback I received from the session was humbling and heartwarming. Stephanie made me smile when she said:
“Your ability to educate in such a fun, engaging, and impactful way continues to amaze me. I’ve had countless people comment on how much they appreciated your session and the genuine support you bring each time you visit Wagga. Honestly, words don’t quite do it justice. Thank you again for your incredible contribution; it was truly appreciated.”
It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do. I am deeply grateful to have been part of such a meaningful event, surrounded by such committed and caring professionals.
Kudos to the Murrumbidgee Local Health District Palliative Care Service for creating this wonderful opportunity. Here’s to continuing the conversation, caring for ourselves as well as others, and strengthening the bonds that make our healthcare community so special.
