Recognising our healthcare workers

Melbourne University Soccer Club are proud to have many of our members working in the healthcare system.

Across the coming weeks we’ll be highlighting just some of those at the club who work hard every day to look after others.

Elin Davies – Women’s State League 2

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work within the palliative care area of Melbourne City Mission. It sounds quite depressing but we basically enable people (who are terminally ill) to stay at home for end of life care, instead of being in hospital. So we have nurses/doctors/counsellors/massage therapists that go out and visit clients in the home and manage their pain/symptoms and provide emotional support too.”

“Basically my role is handling incoming calls from clients/carers/hospitals/other health providers, processing administrative paperwork like referrals/deaths, ordering equipment, running reports and dealing with incoming emails/faxes. We do a whole range of stuff!”

“It’s definitely a very challenging area to work in but also extremely rewarding as families are so grateful for what we do as it means they can keep their loved ones at home surrounded by friends and family instead of in the not so nice environment of a hospital.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“I’m working from home most of the time. Occasionally I’ll do a day in the office as we need one admin staff member on site just because there are some tasks that can’t be done from home. We’re also trying to do all of our check ins with clients via phone, unless they really need a visit. Because obviously they’re some of the most high risk members of the population so we want to protect them and also our staff!”

What are you most looking forward to when MUSC returns to action down the track?

“I’m excited to get back out there with MUSC because there isn’t much else that would get me out of the house and being active on a rainy winter’s night. I love being part of a team and club that is so supportive, open-minded and welcoming to all.”

“I’d have to say I’m most excited for the matches, nothing else compares to the feeling of being out there on the pitch at Prinny on a sunny Sunday afternoon!”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“I would just say, stay home BUT stay fit! We’re going to need it when the season recommences.”

Daniel Tan – Men’s Metro League 4 (Player-Coach)

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work as a pharmacist and have been for the past 10 years.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“COVID-19 wouldn’t normally affect the way I would approach my work life, but as I now have a little one in the family I have to take extra precautions. Making sure to reduce the risks where possible. Life is like everyone else in these times- at home with the family.”

What are you most looking forward to when MUSC returns to action down the track?

“Football friends.”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“Just keep doing what we are doing and we should be back to normality soon!”

Adrienne ‘Adge’ Heslop – Women’s State League 3 North

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work 3 days a week at the Gap Rd Medical Centre in Sunbury as a GP. Since the pandemic kicked off I’ve also been working one day a week in the fever clinic at The Northern Hospital, if anyone needs a swab feel free to come and see me during the day on Thursdays, I’ll be happy to stick a swab down your nostrils! In the initial stages of the pandemic work felt very different. The stress and anxiety of staff and patients at the clinic made days there feel quite tense. Eventually the clinic set things up with better protection for staff and patients, including screens, masks, a sectioned waiting area and good triaging to prevent high risk patients coming in… this helped a lot. There has been a move to more Telehealth which is quite different to usual, it’s harder providing care to patients without seeing them face to face.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“In life things for me aren’t too much different; work, looking after the kids and trying to fit in a bit of exercise… it’s hard not seeing friends and I miss soccer! But I feel thankful that I have a job to go to and that I am still able to see family via technology.”

What are you most looking forward to when MUSC returns to action down the track?

“I’m most looking forward to getting back out on the field and kicking the soccer ball with a great bunch of chicks.”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“MUSC has been fantastic at staying in touch and providing entertainment and information throughout this situation. Thanks to the committee for their ongoing work even when the season isn’t happening! My message to everyone, keep informed, keep distancing, follow Dept of Health advice. It may seem like things are going well but that is due to the distancing measures taking place, keep up the good work! And look after yourselves and each other.”

Kate ‘Richo’ Richardson – Women’s State League 3 North (Player-Coach)

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work at the Department of Health and Human Services. I’ve been here roughly two and a half years and I work in Emergency Management in Public Information and Communication teams.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“My department is the control agency for COVID-19 response in Victoria, and given this is a public health emergency, my team has been busy. It’s been an incredible experience, at times very tough but something that I’m thankful to have been part of.”

“Also, I recently purchased rollerblades, so I think on a personal level COVID-19 has affected my life in an incredibly worrying way.”

What are you most looking forward to when MUSC returns to action down the track?

“MUSC has been a big part of my life for almost a decade. I know it’s a home away from home and a true support network for a lot of people so I’m looking forward to being able to see everyone in person and reconnect face to face.”

“I’m also looking forward to being back with my team. We showed some very promising signs in our first (and only) practice match and that was almost two months ago so we’re long overdue a catch up and a kick around. Fingers crossed we can come together soon.”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“You’re doing a great job. Keep following the latest public health advice and hang in there! Don’t get too hung up on things returning to ‘normal’ – we’re potentially a long way away from that – but hopefully some restrictions begin to ease up soon and we can return to some activities, like soccer, in a safe environment.”

“And, if you’re struggling without soccer and a regular routine and you need someone to chat to, don’t be afraid to give me a call!”

Clare Bundy – Women’s State League 2

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work as a nurse in a GP clinic and have been in this role for just under a year. My role involves immunisations, chronic disease management, women’s health, wound care, health promotion and education and so much more! My clinic also has an aged care facility next door that I visit regularly to provide care for several of the residents there. I also visit a couple of nearby schools weekly with one of the GPs to provide health care to the students.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“COVID-19 has completely changed the way we provide care to our patients. Initially, there was a lot of stress and fear at the clinic because information and updates were changing daily, and we had to stay informed so that we could educate patients and keep everyone as safe as possible.”

“We implemented changes to the clinic such as masks, distancing chairs in the waiting area and screening all patients to reduce the risk of anyone bringing the virus into the clinic and possibly exposing other people to it. We have moved to mostly telephone consultations, so patients have their appointment over the phone with their GP. My visits to the aged care facility were reduced to only necessary visits, and due to school closures I was no longer visiting the schools. So, my day-to-day duties completely changed. On the upside – my fifty minute commute turned into a twenty-five minute commute!”

“In terms of affecting my life – sadly, I have had to say goodbye to MUSC (and my job) as I recently moved back to Canberra with my partner.”

What are you most looking forward to when MUSC returns to action?

“Seeing photos of everyone smashing it at games once they return!”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“If you find yourself struggling during this pandemic, please seek help! It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or stressed. This whole situation is unusual and is affecting people in so many ways. Try to get some exercise in, chat with family/friends, or do some baking. And if you are struggling, there is support – visit (or have a phone appointment with) your GP, Beyond Blue, Lifeline, Headspace, 1800Respect.”

“I also just want to say that MUSC has been the most supportive, friendly and inclusive sports club I have been part of! I have met some amazing people throughout my time here and I am going to miss this club!”

Keryn Walters – Victorian Premier League Women’s

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I’ve been working as a GP in Brunswick West since February.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“For the last few months work has felt like a strange roller coaster with recommendations and the way we practice changing nearly weekly. In the early days we were trying to screen and test people, then telehealth came along with phone and video consultations, followed by a mad rush for flu shots. Now it’s slowly starting to look a little more normal which has been nice. A number of friends and family have lost work, so I’m feeling very grateful to still be working during this time.”

“Outside of work, weekends have mainly been spent going for long walks with my wife, and in a way it’s been quite nice to slow down and remind myself of what’s important in life. I’m looking forward to when the borders open interstate and I’ll be able to visit my family.”

What are you most looking forward to when MUSC returns to action?

“I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone in person –  Zoom is just not the same for exercising or socialising! I’m also very much looking forward to the day that the season actually starts (hopefully not too far away!).”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“Just to re-iterate what others have said – a lot of people have found their lives and plans completely upended as a result of this pandemic. If you’re feeling anxious, flat or overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to seek help. Talk to friends, family or your GP as there’s a lot of help available! Can’t wait to see everyone (from a socially acceptable distance) at training next week!”

Evan Bouwmeester – Men’s Metro League 4

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I’ve been working with Ambulance Victoria as a Paramedic for the past 3 years. I currently work from Kyneton branch.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“COVID-19 has affected my job in a number of ways. Primarily, we now need to take a very high degree of caution in regards to our PPE (personal protective equipment). This means we are often dressed up in plastic onesies, with goggles, gloves and face mask. Being dressed up like this feels hot and claustrophobic, it can create communication barriers with colleagues and it often removes the human connection we have with patients.”

“Another significant change is that some of our procedures and medications are highly restricted due to their ability to spread water droplets. Unfortunately most of these procedures are potentially life saving, and having access to them but not being able to use them can be incredibly stressful.”

What are you most looking forward to as MUSC returns to action?

“When MUSC gets back to normal activities, as we’re currently starting to do, I’m mostly looking forward to the social side of things. It’s the main reason I play football, and social distancing has only made that reason stronger.”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“I’m going to reiterate what others have been saying about mental health. Social isolation can be stressful for everyone, but to those with previous mental health conditions it can be crippling. Check up on friends and family, and be kind to each other.”

Hannah Sawkins – Women’s State League 3 North

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work at St Vincent’s Hospital in Fitzroy. This is my first year working as a doctor (what a year to start!)”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“At work, COVID-19 is understandably at the forefront of everyone’s mind and has hugely influenced the way the hospital operates. All the staff have received a lot of extra training in preparation and everyone has been very vigilant. We have also had to adapt and be as flexible as possible as things that we previously took for granted aren’t possible at the moment.”

“Outside of work, COVID-19 has completely changed the way we socialise and interact. Pub trivia with friends has turned in to weekly zoom trivia. Previously busy weekends are now spent playing board games, going for walks and cooking; my partner and I even attended a zoom wedding from home last weekend!”

What are you most looking forward to as MUSC returns to action?

“We had our first socially distant training on Tuesday night. It felt great to run around, have a kick and a laugh with the team. When MUSC is back in full swing I’m looking forward to sunny soccer Sundays at Prinny again. I’ve missed the excitement of game day and the post-game hangouts at the pavilion!”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“Keep hanging in there. Look after yourselves and each other. Check in regularly with your friends and family. And remember that we are all in this together, and we’ll get through it.”

Anamika Joijode – Women’s State League 3 North

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I am a doctor in the Emergency Department at University Hospital Geelong, and I have worked there for almost 3 years.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“The work of preparing an emergency department for all pandemic-produced contingencies initially seemed insurmountable – but it has been made achievable by the tireless efforts from healthcare workers, the understanding of patients and their families, and the support of the wider community.”

“The initial few weeks were an anxious blur of waiting for the floodgates to open, and while we thankfully never reached that drastic outcome, I have felt grateful that I could lean on my wonderful bubble of work teammates (which includes nurses, doctors, patient services assistants, volunteers, allied health to name a few) for support throughout.”

What are you most looking forward to as MUSC returns to action?

“Well 2020 was the year I chose to make my self-appraised grand comeback to soccer after a two year hiatus, but I suppose the jokes were well and truly on me.”

“Things I am looking forward to the most – exercising with friends, endless training banter, and game day excitement when competition resumes.”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“We can all take a moment to appreciate and celebrate the flattening of the curve; it has been partly luck, but has also required lots of conscious, difficult choices and management at an institutional and individual level.”

“Being able to social distance safely and having access to clean running water is a privilege – let’s continue to be vigilant throughout the celebratory and gentle reopenings!”

“On a personal note, I will remind myself to learn something more productive and worthwhile than ‘going out for brunch’ as my hobby.”

Audrey Price – Women’s State League 3 North

Which MUSC team will you be playing for in 2020?

“After years loving life in State Four, I finally tricked some coaches into taking me in a different team – State Three! It was all going so well after a Very Sporty Summer, but I’m starting to wonder if playing up a level and my COVID-level-fitness are mutually exclusive. Time will tell!”

Where do you work and what’s your role?

“I work as a Speech Pathologist (“Speechie”, for those in the know) at Monash Health and Austin Health. My job is less Kings Speech-y than people might first assume when I say I work with adults. I work in rehab – think people who have had strokes and need to eat and drink and chat again (my three favourite things!), and people who have movement disorders like Parkinson’s Disease. It’s the best job in the world (no offence, other jobs) and it’s made better because I regularly sit down with my elderly male patients and realise we’re wearing the same outfit AKA ‘Grandpa Chic’.”

How has COVID-19 affected your work (and life)?

“It’s halved my commute and doubled my workload – lots of people are moving very quickly to rehab so the acute beds can stay available for peeps with COVID, if needed. Right now it means that family members can’t visit much, which is really hard for our patients’ morale, so we’re doing a lot more “chatting” outside of therapy time (/comparing outfits) so they don’t feel too down.”

What are you most looking forward to as MUSC returns to action?

“The actual Sport part! Even a non-sporty person like me enjoys a good Sport. I’ve really missed essentially being forced to show up to training and have been resenting having to do it myself; I am not a good coach because I rarely force myself to do anything, and as a chronic people-pleaser I want myself to like myself… it’s a real pickle.”

Is there anything else you would like to tell the public/MUSC members?

“Keep looking after each other – it’s a big, unwieldy family we have here, and it’s important to stay in touch… but don’t actually touch each other. And don’t cough in public; people are really hating that right now.”