NSLHD News August 30

Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital’s Community Participation Committee Their passion for a healthy community and to make life better for all has brought Brian Osborne, Ruth Murray and Susan Forsaith together for the past 10 years. Together the trio has juggled work and life commitments to be members of the Hornsby Ku- ring-gai Hospital’s Community Participation Committee. This year marks a decade they have been valuable members, and along with Magda Campbell, they are the longest serving members of the CPC. Ruth first came to helping out at the hospital when she was a young Girl Guide and volunteered in the hospital’s kiosk. “I am from a medical family. I worked as a GP for over 25 years,” she said. “I am a very giving person and I want people to have a fair go.” Formerly a biochemist in the UK, Brian has served on many community committees both in Speech pathology teams across the district had a great week spreading the word about Speech Pathology. Staff, patients and visitors came along to a number of stands were they were able to participate in

Ruth Murray, Susan Forsaith and Brian Osborne

England and in Australia.

“I didn’t know what to expect (when I answered the advert) and I didn’t know what was required of me but it has been very worthwhile and we have been able to achieve a lot for the community,” she said. “We are all different people but we have similar goals and passions.” The CPC meets bi-monthly and is consulted on a variety of issues relating to the delivery of services at the hospital. It has provided feedback on clinical plans, hospital structures, signage and the redevelopment of the hospital.

Brian, who is currently the chair and has never missed a meeting, had no hesitation in joining the hospital’s CPC to advocate on behalf of patients and community members. “You can make a difference (being on the Community Participation Committee),”he said. “The hospital trusts us with important information and it values us. My opinion is valuable.” When Susan saw the advertisement in the paper for consumers, her interest in community and preventative health led her to joining. a variety of activities, including trying thickened fluids and guessing the consistency, communicating scenarios or requests without using speech and, of course, guessing how many teeth and mouth lollies are in the jar.

District celebrates Speech Pathology Week

Various flyers, brochures, diagrams and visuals on

communication and swallowing were available at each stand for staff, patients and visitors.

Mona Vale Hospital’s speech pathologists Sophie Walsh and Laura Pavey with team leader Sarah Hammond spreading the word about speech pathology

Staff at Ryde Hospital celebrating Speech Pathology Week

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