Guest Speaker
At tonight's meeting we were delighted to hear from 2 speakers. Firstly a presentation by our outbound RYE student for 2027 - Ivy Baxa. Ivy is heading to Italy in January and gave us an insight into her family, her ambitions and what she hopes to gain from her 12-month overseas journey. Building self-confidence and independence are key areas for development identified while the challenge of learning another language is a little daunting at present.
While her actual placement is still being finalised Ivy is getting ready for the trip of a lifetime, wondering how many jars of Vegemite to take, whether to include Tim Tams in her luggage or simply enjoy all the pasta, pizzas and Italian food that will be on offer once there.
Members wished Ivy good luck and safe travels, and we look forward to the quarterly reports to keep up with her Italian adventure.
Our second guest speaker Louise Maxwell from Mercy Health provided an informative session on a topic at the opposite end of spectrum - Palliative Care. Louise explained generally when this topic is raised all goes quiet - it is something most people are uncomfortable talking about, however reality is we all need to be aware what it is, who can access it, what is on offer and where it can be found in Albury.
Palliative care includes a range of services that support people with advanced disease when cure is no longer possible. Our aim is for each person to experience the best quality of life possible—physically, personally, socially and spiritually.
The Mercy Health Palliative Care Centre provides:
- a community palliative care program supporting people to remain in their home
- a 10-bed inpatient unit, including a family stay unit
- a visiting specialist palliative care physician
- a Creative Living Centre which offers social and emotional support through friendship and activities
- clinical leadership, support and education about palliative care within the region.
Louise explained the origins of the Sisters of Mercy dating back to 1886 and the care and service provided by sisters over the years. Community service by the Sisters of Mercy aligns very closely with Rotary - service, compassion, helping disadvantaged and caring for those in need.
Similar to many organisations Mercy Health has a Foundation which raises funds for much needed hospital and medical equipment. Patient lifting equipment, automated syringe dispensers, shower chairs, recliners are typical examples of items always in need. With limited staff aids that minimise the risk of OH&S issues - back injuries are critical in this day and age.
Members thanked Louise for providing an insight into Mercy Health and provided an ARAM donation certificate as a thank you.
The Club will look into how we may be able to support Mercy health in the future.
Bert is continuing to work on the Group 9 & 10 Membership initiative to promote the great work of Rotary within the community and hopefully attract new members.
