In 1973 I began study to become a Nurse at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children in Glebe, Sydney. Nursing in 1973 was an apprentice-style of training of three years. After receiving my qualifications, I worked full-time as a registered nurse. In those years, nurses were required to do shift work and schedules would regularly change. When I married and became a mother, it was no longer possible to manage shift work. I turned my attention to remedial massage, which became a career I have continued for over 40 years. Massage training at the NSW College of Remedial Therapy in the mid-70s was similar to nursing: an apprenticeship style of training. I discovered I had a talent for massage. I really enjoyed working with individual clients and working with them through their various physical aches and pains. I maintained my nursing qualifications by working one or two nightshifts per week on the North Shore in Sydney which turned into a permanent night shift in a Nursing Home. Raising a family where I was a significant income source was sometimes overwhelming, but there was always something interesting happening. As sports massage and sports trainers became popular, I found myself working with sports teams. Maintaining their highly trained physical bodies was exciting and challenging. I was in one of the first groups to study as a sports trainer with the Australian Sports Medicine Association. I worked with footballers, both rugby and league, aerobic groups, cyclists and swimmers. I developed a strong interest in swimming, coaching and teaching.

 

Teaching interested me from early in my career. I began teaching at the NSW College of Remedial Therapy and later helped develop the curriculum for the first General Massage Course at NSW TAFE in 1988. I continued to teach. First swimming and then massage for the Exercise Sport Medicine students at Cumberland College. I have been teaching about touch and massage to nurses at Avondale College as part of their Chronic Disease subject for the past 10 years. In recent years I have found taking on mentees the most satisfying challenge and have enjoyed supporting people early in their careers to find their directions.  

 

In my forties, when my children became independent, I made another important decision. I enrolled for a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science at the University of New England. Then a Master of Clinical Science (Lifestyle Medicine) at Southern Cross University. I had spent over 40 years working in the field of chronic pain and musculoskeletal disease as well as working with clients of all ages. I studied anatomy, physiology and prevention through lifestyle practices. More than anything, I learned that it is what people believe and the way they understand themselves that is paramount to their recovery. I am currently studying Mental Health Nursing to round out my knowledge.

 

In considering my journey, the study, and my professional and family experiences as a combination of areas of expertise, I believe I now offer clients, and myself, an understanding of the deep and unique connections between our minds, bodies, and spirits. I am honoured to work with my clients to help them understand these connections. I approach each client with dignity and respect, working cooperatively and holistically toward their wellness goals. I genuinely love my work!

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