Today we celebrate International Nurses Day and highlight the work of one special nurse, Jean-Pierre. Recently, Jean-Pierre was a finalist for the Inclusion Award at the inaugural Anglicare Southern Queensland Excellence Awards.
Jean-Pierre’s colleagues describe him as demonstrating strength, kindness, respect and love for people from all backgrounds, with a special gift for nursing palliative residents. He offers his tender care, thoughtfulness, touch, conversation and presence to all he cares for.
“It was very humbling to be nominated by my peers, it’s topped off a career that I’ve devoted my life to,” Jean-Pierre said.
As an Enrolled Nurse at St John’s Home for Men, he works in a team of Nurses, Personal Carers and Lifestyle Assistants caring for the 64 men who live there.
Jean-Pierre has been working at the Anglicare Southern Queensland aged care home for over 12 years and is passionate about providing the best care possible for the residents every day.
“The best part of my job is interacting with the men and learning who they are.”
“Some of the men from St John’s have lived hard lives, but it’s all about accepting them regardless of where they’ve come from.”
“It’s being there for them and giving them some continuity, so they know you’ll be there day in and day out.” Jean-Pierre said.
He’s worked in the industry for over 25 years, and began his career in Warwick, Queensland. Jean-Pierre spent a lot of time caring for his two sons before making the decision enter aged care. It was an easy transition for him, from caring for his own family to caring for and supporting others.
In celebration of International Nurses Day, we’d like to thank Jean-Pierre and all of our incredible nurses right across the state: for the hard work, dedication and the invaluable role they play in the lives of so many Queenslanders, each and every day.