My career change came after a long history of working in executive medical administration in both the public and private sector with a strong organisational skill set seeing me organising medical conferences and events and as secretariat for 20+ meetings some months, plus all the other “admin” tasks.

A lot of this time was working around cancer services. I felt there had to be more for the patient going through such a life-altering and devastating experience than doctor’s appointments, tests, surgery, staff chatting away about their own lives, seemingly oblivious to the shattered world of the patient. The impact on friends and family, with them not knowing how to respond in word or touch and then there were those with nobody at all for support.

I needed a change and this was the perfect next step for me…..

When a close friend of mine was hospitalised, diagnosed with throat and lung cancer I would visit her and comfort her by carefully and gently placing my hands on her arms, legs, hands, shoulders and forehead, letting the warmth of my hands mould into her body. A process I was later to learn is known as ‘holds’. This experience led me to explore massage and other supportive treatments for people suffering with cancer.

My Passion for Health

Over the years my motivation to increase my knowledge in wellbeing and complementary healthcare has given me the opportunity to complete an extensive range of qualifications that all interlink. I am qualified in Remedial Massage, Oncology Massage, Lymphoedema and Lipoedema Management, Compression Garment fitting (sleeves, stockings, custom made, ready to wear) Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Swedish (relaxation) massage, Pregnancy Massage and ArōmaTouch Technique.

I am passionate about the correct assessment of each client and the delivery of evidence-based treatment. My years of dedication to these fields has resulted in me becoming an industry leader in lymphoedema and lipoedema management.

Training and Teaching

I share my time now between teaching the Diploma of Remedial Massage, running courses ranging from information sessions to a 6-day intensive course. In between times, I run a busy part time private practice in Brisbane specialising in lymphoedema, lipoedema and oncology massage which keeps me industry registered, skills current and fulfils my need to help others. My thirst for knowledge has me also studying a Diploma of Aromatherapy so I can learn more about the Essential Oils I use in massage for compromised health.

Speaking Engagements

I often speak at community groups and conferences on “Lymphoedema” and “Lipoedema” and was recently an international speaker for the World Breast Cancer Summit. I am passionate about education and being able to empower my clients with things they can do at home to help themselves. But most of all, I love teaching others what’s not written in the books.

Helping Others

As a therapist one of my most memorable experiences is working as a volunteer for Little Haven Palliative, donating my time one morning a week to massage oncology patients and their carer’s. Massage has also surprised me in many ways over the years. The one thing I didn’t expect to gain from my massage career is the profound difference that can be made to someone’s life through skilful touch.

My Focus

As a trainer, my focus is getting my students industry ready, providing them with evidence-based material, and encouraging them to think laterally to achieve the best outcome for their clients. I reiterate the importance of remaining client focused through professional consultation and follow up and maintaining industry standards through continued education. Towards the end of the longer courses, I take students through running an event

Courses

I look forward to seeing you in one of my classes to teach you techniques and sequences you can use that will change the way you practice. Sharing methods you can use to liaise with other health professionals will help you build your business and credibility in the world of “lymphoedema” and “lipoedema”.