Bowel Care Nurses

“I am honoured to work as a Specialist Bowel Care Nurse, supporting people living with a bowel cancer diagnosis at Windsor Gardens. My role means walking alongside patients, their families and loved ones during some of life’s most challenging moments, offering unwavering support. Being able to provide compassion and hope is something I truly value. I am committed to providing education and advocating for our patients at Windsor Gardens, ensuring their wishes are respected throughout their care. It is such a privilege to be entrusted with this responsibility, and I am grateful to support, advocate for and empower everyone I can affected by bowel cancer.” ~ Amanda

“I feel incredibly privileged to support people and their families through what is often one of the most challenging times of their lives. As a Specialist Bowel Cancer Nurse, I am dedicated to ensuring that no one feels alone throughout their cancer journey. I strive to provide compassionate care, practical guidance, and a listening ear while helping patients navigate diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. I am passionate about raising awareness, promoting early detection and empowering patients with knowledge and confidence. Above all, I believe in treating every person with kindness, respect and dignity while advocating for the best possible outcomes throughout their journey.” ~ Jamie.

“Many people feel hesitant or embarrassed talking about bowel symptoms, so being someone they can trust is incredibly important. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing how much a conversation can ease someone’s fear. Sometimes simply taking the time to listen and explain things clearly can make a huge difference. Being able to help someone reach important milestones and continue making memories with their family is incredibly meaningful. I am also passionate about raising awareness of bowel cancer, particularly among younger Australians. One of the biggest misconceptions is that bowel cancer only affects older people. We’re seeing increasing numbers of younger people diagnosed, which is why awareness of symptoms and early detection are so important.” ~ Leah.

“I aim to be a friendly, approachable face and a reassuring point of contact throughout treatment. Whether coordinating referrals, connecting patients with support services or helping them navigate complex treatment plans, I believe continuity of care plays a critical role in improving the patient experience. The most rewarding part of my job is knowing I’ve helped make a diagnosis feel a little less overwhelming. One of the most memorable patients I’ve supported is a woman who first presented as an emergency and has been under my care for four years. Despite everything she has faced, she continues to meet each challenge with remarkable resilience and a genuine smile. Supporting her and her family has been a privilege and a powerful reminder of why this work is so meaningful.” ~ Mel.

“Some days I’m working closely with doctors and coordinating care, while other days I’m speaking with patients all day. What remains consistent is being there when patients need someone to guide and support them. I was drawn to the Specialist Bowel Care Nurse role because it allows me to provide more holistic, person-centred care. We develop really special bonds with our patients. You become part of their journey and can make a meaningful difference during a very difficult period of their lives. I keep cards and letters from patients because they remind me that even small acts of support can have a lasting impact.”~ Evelyn.

“I’m passionate about supporting patients from the moment they are diagnosed. It’s important that they know we are around from the beginning, and that they have someone to guide them and point them in the right direction for resources, support, and care coordination. Everyone has different support needs along their treatment journey. To have someone to translate medical jargon, give practical advice, and identify their needs early can be really helpful.” ~ Jessica.

“This role complements my stomal therapy role; the two are very similar in that you’re supporting people who may have follow-up appointments in Melbourne or ongoing treatment locally. It’s really rewarding because you’re supporting somebody through a difficult time, and being based locally you understand the barriers, like getting to a Melbourne appointment. People have got one person they can call and instead of getting that run-around, I can help organise that for them.” ~ Lynda.

“I have so many patients who inspire me due to their positive approaches and resilience in the face of a life-changing cancer diagnosis. Each day in my role is different as each patient with a diagnosis of bowel cancer is unique. I spend time with each patient to discuss their individual needs and support them to set realistic goals that will help them during their bowel cancer journey.” ~ Sue.

“My role is very rewarding, as I am able to connect with patients on a personal and emotional level to make a difference in their cancer care journey and hopefully contribute to better health outcomes for them. I am proud to be a constant, dedicated point of contact for our patients during what is a difficult time in their lives.” ~ Sunette.

“The most rewarding aspect of my job is being there for my patients, offering a listening ear and providing support. It’s fulfilling to find ways to ease their cancer journey and reduce their stress. The relief I see on their faces when they realise that they don’t have to face this challenge alone is incredibly rewarding.” ~ Rachel.

“This role has given me the opportunity to support clients with bowel cancer in regional and remote areas of North Queensland, helping to alleviate some of the stressors by coordinating care, offering emotional support and linking them in with support services that are available within the community. The most rewarding part of my role is building trusting relationships with my clients and being that main point of contact, giving them the opportunity to discuss their feelings and concerns.” ~ Claire.

“My role as a specialist Bowle Care Nurse is to not only provide the clinical expertise but also to build a trusting relationship with the patient and their carers by offering a consistent, supportive presence that allows the patients to feel heard and cared for at every step of their journey. My role helps patients navigate and understand the complexities of cancer care and ensure that they are being seen as a whole person, and not just their disease.” ~ Paula.

“The most meaningful part of my job is the rapport I build with patients and their families. I’m there to provide treatment information, psychosocial support, and practical guidance – not just at diagnosis, but throughout treatment, survivorship, and maintenance care. I also help link people with other services that can make their journey easier. Patients let you into their world when everything feels uncertain, and being a consistent, trusted presence is a privilege. I’m grateful to deeply invest in one area of oncology I’m truly fascinated by. The bowel is such an important part of health and helping people feel comfortable discussing it is incredibly rewarding.”~ Erika.