Joanne's Story
It is Joanne’s mission in life to assist her Clients to maintain their independence for as long as possible through her Care Support role, in which she dedicates 100 per cent of herself to every Client in every session.
Although a natural-born care giver, Care Support has not always been Joanne’s career, having pivoted from decades in business ownership and bookkeeping.
The career transition was inspired by her experience caring for her mother post-operation, as well as a dear family friend.
“[Mum] had her best friend from Spain living with her because she was terminal from cancer, so I was running upstairs downstairs between the two of them and I quite enjoyed it,” Joanne said. “There were a lot of laughs and of course a bit of sadness.”
“To be able to help someone and make them happier, make them feel more valued and just to be of assistance is what I get out of it.”
Inspired, Joanne completed her studies remotely during the COVID-19 lockdowns, selected MSWA from a number of job offers and hasn’t looked back.
“I picked MSWA because it was more than just aged care,” she said, “my mum has since been diagnosed with dementia as well, so I picked MSWA because it was neurological.”
“It’s a hard job, but it is a lovely job to think that you have helped someone.”
“Sometimes I visit a Client and they may not have had a good couple of days, but the look on their face when they see you, it is just everything.”
It gives me pleasure to go to work to be with these people and I am sure I get just as much out of them as they do with me because I am forever laughing with them.
Joanne said she was shocked and delighted to be named one of the Difference Makers Award for 2022.
“I still have a big grin on my face. I have never won anything, so it was amazing,” she said. “I do work really hard, and I always give Clients my 100 per cent attention – I think that is really important.”
“[The award] made me feel thanked for that effort, I just feel appreciated.” The fact the award was Client nominated made it that much more special, “because they are the ones I am doing it for” according to Joanne.
“But it is not just me, we are all a team, and we all get up every morning and do what we need to do to help these guys with their everyday lives,” she said.
Joanne had a special message to share with her Clients, particularly the ones who nominated her. “Thank you all so much, you are all wonderful,” she said, “I love them all in their own little ways.”
