The Kind Side

Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
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To look on the bright side is to find good things in challenging situations. Working in health, receiving health care, or supporting a patient can be challenging. Small acts of kindness help improve experiences. This podcast features conversations with patients, carers and health care workers that look on the kind side of health. We’ll also help with practical ideas for small acts of kindness so you can help cultivate kindness too!

  1. 09/23/2025

    Stella, a daughter's reflections on community palliative care

    This episode shares Stella’s personal family journey with community palliative care as they supported her father at home. It highlights the compassionate care, practical support, and dignity the team provided, and how those acts of kindness helped the whole family, including the children. Stella reflects on grief, gratitude, and creating community spaces for mourning, including her writing and local gatherings that offer gentle support to others. The conversation emphasises empathy, clear communication, and the importance of being seen and heard during difficult times.

    27 min

  2. 09/07/2025

    Caitlyn, a community health and palliative care nurse

    In this episode Frances chats with Caitlyn, a nurse who moved from ICU to community and palliative care. Caitlyn shares her path into nursing, the variety of work in a community health centre, and the skills she brought from inpatient care. They discuss teamwork, visiting patients at home, non-judgmental care, reframing language around patient choices, and practical self-care tips like donating plasma. The episode highlights gratitude, human connection, and simple ways listeners can show kindness to health workers.

    28 min

  3. 04/27/2025

    Anna, a hospital cleaner on spreading joy and 1000 Hearts

    In this episode of The Kind Side, host Frances sits down with Anna, a dedicated cleaner working in the children's ward of a large hospital. Transitioning from 15 years in retail to hospital cleaning, Anna shares how her new role brings her joy and fulfillment, making her feel valued and appreciated. She talks about her daily routine, the heartwarming interactions with children, families, and staff, and the significance of being part of the healthcare team. Anna also discusses the meaningful "1000 Hearts" project - an initiative spreading kindness through handmade felt hearts. She recounts touching stories of how giving these little tokens of care has connected her with patients and uplifted their spirits, fostering a sense of community and empathy in challenging times. This episode highlights the often-overlooked contributions of hospital cleaners and the simple acts of kindness that make a big difference in creating a positive and supportive healthcare environment.

    25 min

  4. 03/27/2025

    Sarah a hospital chaplain on spiritual care in health

    Welcome to another episode of The Kind Side, hosted by Frances, where she sits down with Sarah, a seasoned hospital chaplain. Despite a technical hiccup that led to the loss of their first recording, Sarah graciously returns to share her experiences and wisdom. In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah discusses her unexpected journey into hospital chaplaincy, the significance of active listening, and the importance of providing spiritual care in a healthcare setting. Sarah shares valuable insights on how she supports both patients and healthcare staff, emphasizing the role of hope and compassion during challenging times. Listeners will be inspired by her stories of kindness and the transformative power of connecting with others on a deep, spiritual level. Frances and Sarah also delve into the ways chaplains cater to diverse faith needs, ensuring that spiritual support is available to all, regardless of belief. Join this enlightening discussion to explore the profound impact of humanity and empathy in the healthcare environment. Regarding kindness to self and self-care, Sarah wanted to share that "My relationship with God keeps me going. I try not to take home the things which don’t belong to me. I leave these in God’s hands for him to carry on a daily basis, because his hands are much bigger and more able to carry these than mine."

    32 min

  5. 02/06/2025

    In this Together: Daryl and Lia on compassionate cancer care

    Join Frances in this heartfelt episode of "The Kind Side" as she engages in a poignant conversation with patient Daryl and his wife Lia, reflecting on their journey through cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Daryl shares his personal experience with neck cancer, highlighting the critical role of professional care and the unwavering support from Lia and their family and friends. Delve into the unique perspectives of both Daryl and Lia, exploring their different coping mechanisms. Lia's desire for information and Daryl's trust in medical experts paint a diverse picture of dealing with a challenging diagnosis. Listen as they discuss the profound impact of compassionate healthcare workers and support networks, which played a pivotal role in Daryl's recovery. Discover the small yet significant acts of kindness that uplifted their spirits during their darkest times, and learn about the importance of empathy when supporting patients and caregivers. This episode is a touching reminder of the strength found in unity, resilience, and kindness.

    32 min

  6. 02/05/2025

    Finding Compassion: Margaret's poetic journey through mental health

    Join us as we listen to Margaret narrate her powerful and moving poem that provides insight into the experience of mental illness and hospitalisation. In this poem, Margaret draws on her personal experiences, revealing the resilience and strength found in moments of vulnerability. Through this poem, we gain empathy and a deeper understanding of the patients' journey and the compassionate care they receive. This unique episode emphasises the importance of kindness and empathy in healthcare, encouraging listeners to reflect on their perceptions of mental health and to carry forward the message of understanding and compassion for those affected by mental illness.

    11 min

  7. 12/02/2024

    Finding joy after loss: Lefta & Biljana, a Macedonian perspective on grief and cancer care

    Lefta shares her moving story of love and loss with her husband Frank, and the path to healing, including their experiences with the Australian healthcare system and the importance of community support. Biljana, a multicultural health officer, emphasizes the critical role of cancer screening and education within the Macedonian community. This uplifting dialogue highlights the power of volunteering, the richness of cultural traditions, and the resilience needed to overcome life's challenges. Whether you're part of a multicultural community or seeking to understand diverse perspectives, this episode offers valuable insights into compassion and kindness in healthcare.

    44 min

  8. 12/02/2024

    Mel's journey from surviving bowel cancer to becoming a multicultural health advocate

    In this heartfelt episode, we delve into Mel's inspiring journey of resilience and advocacy following a shocking cancer diagnosis. With a Turkish background and a strong Islamic faith, Mel shares the importance of having spaces within healthcare facilities that allow Muslims to practice their religion and pray five times a day, highlighting its significance not only for patients but also for staff. Mel offers an insightful look at her cancer journey, which began unexpectedly with a positive result from a routine screening test and led to surgery and chemotherapy. Throughout her treatment, she found solace and strength in her community and sisterhood support group, where women shared their experiences, engaged in health discussions, and fostered a positive environment. With her characteristic cheerfulness and kind spirit, Mel emphasizes the importance of support from friends and family during challenging times. Her advocacy efforts include encouraging routine screening and open discussions about health within multicultural communities, making her story not only a personal triumph but a beacon of hope and guidance for others.

    22 min
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About

To look on the bright side is to find good things in challenging situations. Working in health, receiving health care, or supporting a patient can be challenging. Small acts of kindness help improve experiences. This podcast features conversations with patients, carers and health care workers that look on the kind side of health. We’ll also help with practical ideas for small acts of kindness so you can help cultivate kindness too!

Information

  • Creator
    Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Kind Side