Meet Melani Lavington, Clinical Nurse Educator
Proud Cook Islander Melani Lavington has packed a lot into her life, overcoming adversities to raise 10 children and train as a nurse. Now, Melani is bringing her unique cultural perspective and expertise in palliative care to the development of the Coomera Hospital.
What is your current role and what is your connection to Gold Coast Health?
A community provider employs me as a clinical nurse educator to provide nursing services to war veterans on the Gold Coast.
What has been your involvement or function at Coomera Hospital?
As a trained clinician who is enthusiastic about providing adequate palliative care, I contribute my distinctive perspective. Additionally, as a culturally sensitive islander, I bring my knowledge of family dynamics, beliefs, and cultural rituals to the team. I also had the opportunity to introduce a more effective palliative approach to New South Wales Health at a rural facility.
Why is it important to have community input into the design of this hospital?
It demonstrates to the community that you are concerned and have been respectful in your inquiry about our cultural practices. Elders and community members will recognise symbols, music, and involvement through the selection of patterns, designs, engravings or words by an individual with cultural awareness.
What is your hope for the Coomera Hospital?
I hope the hospital is recognised for its cultural sensitivity and for bridging the trust gap with the community during the most vulnerable times for sick families.
What drives your sense of purpose?
I enjoy connecting with women and empowering them, which is why I engage in hot yoga and hula dance while also making time to meet them. I have triumphed over sexual abuse, domestic violence to pursue my aspiration of becoming a nurse. I conquered my apprehension of failure. As a mother of 10 children, nine daughters and one son, I serve as a living example of how to change the narrative that shapes your formative years. I try to be a role model for other women. Change necessitates that we confront our past, reconcile and forgive, but most importantly, we demonstrate our words.
