A warm welcome to Rachel MacFarlane who has joined Bloomhill’s nursing team.
Rachel recently made the permanent move from Christchurch, New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast with her husband and teenage son.
She will now be working with Bloomhill Tuesdays through to Fridays, as a Clinical Nurse providing knowledge, support and care for all those affected by cancer.
Rachel graduated with a Diploma in Nursing in Christchurch, New Zealand in 1994.
“After my post grad year in a private surgical ward I left for London and worked there until returning to NZ in 2000,” she said.
“It was in London where I was introduced to oncology nursing and never looked back.”
Returning to New Zealand in 2000, Rachel worked in an acute oncology ward in a public hospital giving chemotherapy, looking after patients during their treatment and management of side effects, complications and palliative care.
“I worked through the Christchurch earthquakes providing care and ensuring my patients and colleagues remained safe,” she said.
“I worked for six years as a Community District Nurse looking after patients in their homes. This ranged from wound care to IV therapy, catheter care, stomas and palliative care.”
In 2020 she returned to Christchurch Public Hospital where she worked in a busy oncology outpatient unit administering chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and triaging unwell patients undergoing treatment.
Asked how she would describe her approach, Rachel said:
“My approach is warm, genuine and unrushed. I have a gentle manner which people warm to quickly.
“I am interested in all aspects of oncology, most especially those clients undergoing active treatment and my background will assist those requiring guidance and advice.
“I have extensive knowledge in palliative care and having lost both parents to cancer have a good understanding of the stresses and support required.”
Rachel said she was looking forward to working in a non-clinical setting and a peaceful environment “in which clients can have my time and feel listened to, and leave feeling empowered and supported”.
She has nursed oncology clients from all walks of life and all stages of their cancer.
“Cancer clients have been among the most humble, uncomplaining and bravest people I know,” Rachel said. “They have taught me to make the most of every opportunity.”
Asked what she was looking forward to about your upcoming work at Bloomhill, she said:
“Working in a supportive team environment in a beautiful location, and getting to know clients and their families.”
To make a time with Rachel email [email protected] or phone Reception on 07 5445 5794.
There is no need to prepare anything for your meeting.
“Just bring yourself and support person if needed,” Rachel said. “Write down questions or thoughts you may have no matter how big or small they may be. I look forward to meeting you.”
