Cheryl Porter is a pioneer in health. The healthcare worker has helped link palliative care and indigenous culture.
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The SWSLHD senior Aboriginal health worker palliative care role was the first of its kind in NSW.
All other local health districts have now been offered the same role.
"I saw the gap in palliative care for indigenous people and saw the job advertised, I just had to apply," Ms Porter said.
"It's important to know that no two Aboriginal people are the same. Broadly though, the whole concept of palliative care is not something we like to talk about, that's sorry business.
"My role is about providing support in palliative and end of life care that is person-centred in meeting the cultural, social, emotional and spiritual needs of Aboriginal people and their family.
"I love what I do and the people I meet. I feel so privileged to be part of this journey, all Aboriginal people should be able to complete their journey in a culturally appropriate way, at peace with their family and ancestors and with the best medical and cultural care."
Smoking ceremonies now occur in palliative care as a result of liaison with patients, their families and staff.
Ms Porter said the ceremony helped the spirit depart from this world and into the next and "go back to country".
"It is important to acknowledge the history and sentiments of indigenous people coming to hospital. I do a lot of work with the patient and their family to make them feel safe," she said.
Ms Porter was a nurse before she transitioned to Aboriginal health. She covered drug, alcohol and mental health issues in rural and remote communities in NSW. Seeing her great grandma in hospital inspired her to pursue a career in nursing.
Palliative care manager Janeane Harlum said the district put forward the concept of a palliative care-specific Aboriginal health worker.
"Now that other local health districts have received funds to implement the same role, they are all reaching out asking for our advice and assistance," Ms Harlum said.
"What I love about this role is Cheryl is embedded in palliative care and she also works with the hospital's Aboriginal liaison officers, helping build the bridge with the chronic care team too."
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