We continue to celebrate International Nurses Day by paying thanks to all the wonderful nurses out there who make a difference to the lives of the people they care for every day.

International Nurses Day is celebrated across the world on May 12 – the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth.

We’re fortunate to have some wonderful nurses working at Bendigo Community Health Services to support clients in a variety of services and programs.

In recognition of International Nurses Day and the great work they do, we’d like to introduce some of these nurses to you this week and talk to them about what makes their career special.

Let’s continue with community health nurse Rebekah Ryan from our Sexual Health Clinic:

How long have you been a nurse?

20 years.

Why did nursing appeal to you in the beginning?

I loved the thought of caring for people and helping people to become well.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a nurse?

Helping people and increasing their knowledge to help themselves.

Describe nursing in one word?

Caring (one really … that was tough)

Tell us a story from your nursing career that made you cry?  

When I won a PapScreen Victoria Nurse Cervical Screening Award in 2016 for Commitment to Underscreened Groups In recognition of exceptional commitment to tailoring cervical screening services to reach underscreened women. I had my family and work colleagues to support me and help celebrate with me. Such a highlight of my career.

What about one that made you laugh?

Cleaning instrument used in a sterile procedure in ‘rinse aid’ ... at least they will shine!

What is your most memorable day on the job as a nurse? 

There is so many however one that stands out is managing the Endometriosis Care Centre Of Australia (ECCA) in Melbourne. Writing script ads for Fox FM Melbourne radio station and then listening to them each morning on the radio to help raise the profile of women’s health issues. Then co-ordinating a fundraising ball at the Royal Melbourne Exhibition Centre … hard work but was amazing.

What would you say to a young student asking your advice on pursuing nursing as a career?

It is so rewarding as long as you specialise and work out your area that you are passionate about and go for it. Be the best you can be.

To meet more of our wonderful nurses from the International Nurses Day series click here

www.bchs.com.au I #BCHS #thereforyou