Helping people through the challenging journey of cancer treatment is a new career focus for USC Nursing Science graduate Janine Gillingham.

The 30-year-old from Hervey Bay, who graduated from USC Fraser Coast last month, is working as a registered nurse at a Hervey Bay radiation oncology centre, playing an important role in the treatment and support of patients receiving radiation therapies.

“I love that this career path as an oncology nurse allows me to provide holistic, patient-centered care,” said Janine, who decided to study Nursing Science after several years as a stay-at-home mum.

“I provide support, dress wounds, organise referrals and engage the patient in their care by being a source of information in areas such as symptom management and treatment regimens,” she said.

“The most rewarding aspect of this role is that I get to know all the patients and I can share their excitement when they have finished their treatments.”

Enrolling in a Master of Nursing is next on Janine’s career plan, with the possibility of incorporating her growing interest in immunology into a clinical nursing research project.

Janine said a desire to help people first inspired her to enrol in Nursing Science at USC’s Fraser Coast campus.

“The opportunity to meet new people, form great friendships and more importantly to challenge myself academically by putting my brain to work were the highlights of my time studying,” she said.

Applications are open to study next year at USC.

— Clare McKay