Mirjam Overcomes Adversity to Pursue Nursing Dream

Mirjam Owen, had spent several years caring for her terminally ill husband and her mother who had dementia. She had been out of the workforce during this time due to being a carer.

Mirjam felt having the gap in her resume would make her unemployable, in addition Mirjam suffered from anxiety and low confidence. She was then put in contact with Tursa Employment and Training to help assist her in overcoming these barriers.

Melinda, from TURSA Nerang, was assigned as Mirjams Employment Adviser. When Melinda met Mirjam she could see that she needed support with her mental health. The priority was to help guide Mirjam to the support services she required. Melinda explained how mental health support works and that Mirjam was eligible for a mental health care plan. Mirjam was not aware that these services were available and through Melinda’s assistance, Mirjam found a GP who established a mental health care plan for her.

Melinda then discussed employment goals and suggested using her life experiences and turning them into a career.

“Miriam thrived in caring for others. By using those strengths, she could become a support worker or a nurse in aged care.” Melinda said.

TURSA assisted Mirjam to enroll in a Certificate III in Individual Support to formalise her skills.

While Mirjam was training to become an AIN her mother was placed into palliative care and sadly passed away. During this turmoil Mirjam still completed her certificate as she knew she wanted to be a Nurse and she wanted to keep herself busy.

Mirjam has since secured employment at Pindarra Palliative Care. Her gap in employment, actually gave her the experience to enter a new career she loves. Melinda will continue to support Mirjam throughout the first six months of employment.

Mirjam said “Melinda has changed my life. I am so grateful for her.’

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