It takes many different people with diverse roles, skills and backgrounds to provide the very best care. Through our Moments in Care series, we look forward to introducing you to some of the incredible people who come to work in our hospital each and every day.
In our first Moments in Care profile, meet our Lead Receptionist, Susie.
Often one of the first smiling faces to greet you when arriving at St Stephen’s, Susie has been an invaluable part of our Patient Administration team for almost two years.
“I love the variety and building a rapport with patients, visitors and my colleagues, and I know that each day I go to work I'm going to have a great day. Sounds corny, but I love my job,” Susie said.
“My inspiration stems from the people I interact with each day. Hearing their stories, their grief and assisting them to make their day a little bit brighter and their experience just a little bit better.”
Read our Fast Five with Susie
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I've always enjoyed the ocean and it's surrounds, I would have pursued studies along the lines of Marine Biology.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of the St Stephen’s team?
It would have to be the people! I work with the Patient Administration Team and I'm proud to be a part of such a wonderful, caring support network. A key part of my role is assisting with general enquiries, and I always have unwavering support from each department who all strive for service. My manager, Sue, is an amazing leader who is always by our side for guidance, a friendly chat or a laugh - she's our rock!
What inspires you?
Finding yourself in a hospital can be a daunting and stressful time for some. The gratitude I receive in return for helping to make someone’s day a little bit better gives me goose-bump moments and at times is quite humbling. Finding inspiration is easy when you see the smiles on the people you help.
How do you care for your own wellbeing?
I believe personal wellbeing is something we all have to continually work on. I try to incorporate what I enjoy doing into my daily routine and getting outdoors with fresh air and sunshine. Outdoor yoga is my regular stretch and ‘me-time’ and who doesn't like a good old fashioned stress buster by connecting with friends and family for a giggle and a cuppa!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love being outdoors in the elements and hitting the local trail network in Hervey Bay with friends. Most days I'll be trail running, mountain bike riding or beach walking with my dog and on weekends away either pack hiking or heading to Fraser Island in our boat for overnight trips.