A childhood nursing dream realised

7 May 2021

Registered Nurse Charlyn Ocdinaria believes nursing is more than just a job, it’s a calling. Here, she talks us through her nursing journey as we celebrate International Nurses Day (12 May 2021).

“When I was young I used to take care of my grandmother and she would always say, ‘I think you’d make a great nurse one day’. So after I finished secondary school in the Philippines I studied nursing.

“I came to Australia in 2016 and then in 2018 I was living across the road from Austin Street, VMCH’s home for younger people with acquired brain injuries. Initially I had wanted to work in a hospital but I got the job at Austin Street and I’m so glad I did, because I really get to connect with the residents, they are more like family than clients to me.

“My role is quite challenging. Our residents have complex physical, cognitive and sensory needs. As well as taking care of their day-today medical needs, I collaborate with healthcare providers to help support and achieve our residents’ goals. I love working as part of a team. I also enjoy getting to know residents’ families. Often they will say ‘I’m so glad you’re working today’ and that it gives them peace to know I’m caring for their loved one.

“Nursing is what I’m passionate about. I really like taking care of people and I couldn’t imagine working myself working in any other field. It’s not just about giving medications, we really put our hearts into caring for people and supporting them to make a positive impact on their life.”

Want to join our team?

Working for VMCH is much more than just a job. We’re a community of people who share a common goal – a commitment to empowering and enabling people to reach their full potential. Call us on 1300 698 624 to find out more or click here for our current job opportunities.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We here at VMCH respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, and we would like to take a moment to honour the fact that we live on the lands of the oldest civilisation in the world. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples, and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.