From Hospital Administrator to Resilience & Purpose in Unpaid Care with Cheryl Harris

Australian Carers (Kintsugi Heroes)

Cheryl Harris, is a community advocate, and former unpaid carer. She transitioned from hospital administration to volunteering and has been deeply involved in senior care and disability services.

Cheryl's life changed when her husband Ken was diagnosed with kidney disease in 1995. She navigated the complexities of dialysis and healthcare, showing immense strength and resilience. Juggling hospital visits, strict dietary plans, and emotional turmoil, Cheryl managed Ken’s chronic illness, always keeping his well-being at the forefront despite significant personal sacrifices.

After Ken's passing, Cheryl focused on personal growth, finding new purpose and contributing to the community. She understands the importance of balancing self-care with her passion for helping others."

Cheryl’s tireless work in her community spans from kidney health to homelessness. She believes in the power of small acts of kindness to improve the world. For Cheryl, volunteering and community work continue to be her anchors, providing purpose and joy as she reinvents her identity.

Committed to positive change, Cheryl collaborates with local organisations and is working on a project with the University of Sunshine Coast to create a resource hub for carers and seniors.

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We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the BUPA Foundation (Australia) through their Community Grants Program. To find out more, head to https://www.bupafoundation.org/.