The Kind Side

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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Nora is a mother-of-four who lives with kidney failure. She spoke with Frances at her chairside while receiving renal dialysis treatment as an outpatient. Nora comes to hospital three times a week for the life-saving treatment and talks about how she juggles her health care with being a mother and a wife whilst also working. Nora shares her Cook Islands culture and faith in God, and how she chooses to live with gratitude. Nora talks about how she is kind to nurses, and they are kind to her in return.

Pheobe is passionate about inclusive supportive cancer care. She sat down with podcast host Frances in a quiet room at the cancer care centre where she works. Phoebe is proud to work in administration as part of a team of health professionals caring for people with cancer. Phoebe talks about what it's like to work in health coming from a non-clinical background and how her team has improved wayfinding and made the service more inclusive for people who are part of the LGBTIQ+ community. Phoebe shares the small acts of kindness she sees every day in health, from patients, families and colleagues.
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.

Rose fell and broke her leg on a public holiday, relying on the kindness of strangers to support her and her three young children to get help. Rose spoke with podcast host Frances at her hospital bedside whilst recovering from emergency surgery. Rose reflects on her experiences coming to hospital via Ambulance, being cared for in the Emergency Department and on a ward, and managing intense pain. Rose shares how much she values and appreciates human connection in hospital, such as speaking with the nurses and cleaners about their day. She also talks about the impact of COVID or our willingness to engage with each other, and how some reassuring words from her surgeon helped her during this difficult time.