The Kind Side

Margot and friends, ISLHD Chief Executive Panel Discussion: Why kindness in health is important

Join us for a special panel discussion celebrating the launch of The Kind Side. Podcast co-creators, healthcare worker Frances and consumer Stacey, ask consumer Ross, ISLHD Chief Executive Margot, ISLHD A/Director of Nursing & Midwifery Dan, and ISLHD Staff Specialist Emergency Medicine Dr. Bishan why kindness in health is important.
Ross, a long-time patient, shares his experiences of kindness in the NSW Health system and the positive changes he has observed over the years. Margot discusses the vital role of leadership in nurturing a compassionate healthcare environment. Dan offers practical examples of everyday kindness, while Dr. Bishan highlights the impact of teamwork and compassion in high-pressure settings.
Discover why kindness is crucial in healthcare and explore how each of us can contribute to a more empathetic and understanding community. Reflect on your own interactions and consider committing to a small act of kindness that can make a significant difference.
For more information, visit the NSW Health website and check out the Elevating the Human Experience Guide to Action. Remember, kindness is free, and it has the power to transform lives.

Donna's journey of discovery to recover from stroke

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Donna, one of the many Australians who experienced a stroke in 2020. Four years on, Donna opens up about her near-death experience and the journey that followed. She shares her positive mindset and the transition from recovery to discovery, living with a non-traumatic brain injury.
Donna discusses the importance of support groups, the value of connection, and her personal project, "TBI doesn't mean Tea, Biscuits and Infusion," which documents her thoughts and experiences. She reflects on the hidden challenges of living with a brain injury and the misconceptions people often have.
Join us as Donna talks about the kindness she encountered in healthcare, her insights on life after a near-death experience, and her commitment to living fully and positively. This episode is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the beauty of life’s small moments.

Karen, living with positivity and chronic illness

Join host Frances Wood in a remarkable conversation with Karen, a resilient patient at a NSW Health hospital. Despite battling Crohn's disease and undergoing numerous medical treatments for over 20 years, Karen maintains a positive outlook on life. She shares her experiences with intravenous nutrition, living with a stoma bag, and the challenges of frequent hospital visits.
Discover how Karen's perspective and gratitude help her navigate her health journey, and learn about the deep relationships she forms with healthcare staff. This episode is a testament to the power of positivity and the importance of support from family, friends, and compassionate caregivers.
Listen in to gain insights on maintaining a positive mindset, the significance of patient-caregiver relationships, and practical advice for those dealing with chronic health conditions.

Paul, riding through the adversity of a cycling accident

Join us on this episode of The Kind Side as we delve into an inspiring conversation with Paul, who shares his story of resilience and recovery after a serious cycling accident. Paul was out on a regular ride when an unexpected incident led him to the hospital with multiple injuries. He opens up about his sudden transition from a healthy, active lifestyle to being an inpatient in the hospital, surrounded by the kindness of strangers and medical staff.
Paul reflects on the shock of the accident, the support he received from good Samaritans, and the emotional journey of waking up in the hospital. He discusses how he copes with his injuries, the importance of staying active during recovery, and the invaluable role of family, friends, and healthcare professionals in his healing process.
This episode is a testament to human resilience and the power of kindness in times of crisis. Whether you're seeking inspiration or just a heartfelt story, Paul's experience offers a profound reminder of the strength we find in ourselves and others during challenging times.
Thank you for tuning in to The Kind Side. If you need support after listening to this episode, please reach out to a trusted person in your life or contact Lifeline at 13 11 14, available 24/7.

Anita, solving puzzles with sonography

Anita was inspired to become a sonographer by an experience she had as a child. Now Anita is hoping to inspire the next generation of puzzle-solving sonographers. Anita joined podcast host Frances Wood on a shift break in the sun at the hospital when she works. She shares her passion for her work, the difference between a sonographer and radiographer, and how she tries to provide patients with a good experience, even when giving not so good news. Anita talks about what it was like working as a sonographer during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of reconnecting with each other as humans caring for humans. Join Anita for this joyful and optimistic conversation about kindness in NSW Health. 

Dan's story, working in Aboriginal health

Dan shares his experiences in and perspectives on kindness in health as a Principal Aboriginal Health Worker. Dan started his career in sexual health and now works in chronic care. Dan is passionate about helping Aboriginal communities to improve and maintain their health. He shares some of the reasons why Aboriginal people may feel uncomfortable in hospital and how we can be more welcoming and inclusive. Dan talks with podcast host, Frances about an act of kindness by his non-indigenous colleagues, his love of family and culture, and his connection to the salt water of Dharawal Country where he lives and works.

Charlotte a hospital pharmacist

Charlotte is a pharmacist working at a hospital. She spoke with podcast host Frances during her shift. Charlotte shares why she wanted to become a pharmacist and the journey from studying to working. Charlotte explains how she works with patients, carers, doctors and nurses to ensure medications are used effectively in hospital and on discharge home. Charlotte talks about the time she spent working in far western NSW and the small acts of kindness that make a big difference in her day.

Edna a hospital senior doctor

Edna is a senior doctor who also helps to teach junior doctors. Edna spoke with Frances at the hospital where she works, reflecting on why she wanted to become a doctor and her journey to becoming a staff specialist in medicine. Edna shares how she juggles caring for patients in and out of hospital, with her teaching and family responsibilities. Edna talks about the small acts of kindness she appreciates, and how she is helping to lead a culture of kindness in health.

Lee a hospital stores officer

Lee likes to brighten people's days by smiling and taking the time to have a chat with patients, their loved ones and his colleagues. Lee spoke with Frances during a short break in his shift as a stores officer at a local hospital. Lee shares the important role health care workers like him play in ensuring doctors, nurses, allied health and pharmacy have everything they need to provide safe quality care. Lee opens up about his own cancer journey, how he came to work in health, and how we should never feel afraid to connect with someone who looks like they are having a hard time. 
If talking about cancer brings up uncomfortable feelings for you, please be kind to yourself and consider listening to another episode. If you feel you need support, Lifeline offers 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention to all Australians. Phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Nick a hospital wardsperson

Nick loves being part of a team that cares for aged care patients, especially those with dementia. Nick spoke to Frances before starting his shift as a wardsperson at a local hospital. Nick helps our nurses and doctors however he can, and cares deeply about being a calming reassuring presence for patients with dementia on the ward. Nick talks about what brought him to health and how he actively contributes to a culture of kindness in his team.
If talking about dementia brings up uncomfortable feelings for you, please be kind to yourself and consider listening to another episode. If you feel you need support, Lifeline offers 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention to all Australians. Phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.