Anna, a Radiation Therapist from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, and Amanda, a Radiation Therapist from GenesisCare, share their experiences with the Anna Stewart Memorial Project. Anna’s responses are in the left column, while Amanda’s answers are in the right column.
What brought you to study the health science of Radiation Therapy?
Radiation Therapy really appealed to me for many reasons. As we primarily treat cancer patients, helping patients through such a difficult time in their lives felt like very important work. I liked the idea of seeing patients daily for several weeks and building that rapport, rather than one-off encounters. I enjoy the challenge of RT, as it is very technical, with the advanced machines we operate and the problem-solving involved. I also prefer working within a team environment, and RT is a very team-orientated career.
I was working in an office in the UK and my manager was diagnosed with colon cancer. He became very sick and passed away quite quickly which shocked and really affected me. Shortly after, I saw that my local hospital was advertising in the newspaper for students to study Radiation Therapy and as my dream had always been to work in healthcare, I applied. The rest is history.
How many years have you been practising?
I am in my fourth year practising RT.
30 years!
What is the best thing about your job?
My favourite thing about my job is that we always work in a team. I really enjoy working alongside others, continually learning from them and connecting with them. We make it a very positive, enjoyable and fulfilling place to work, and the patients often comment on this saying it really helps them to get through their treatment course during a difficult time in their journey.
The patient contact. I love chatting with patients, especially the older ones. Their life stories are so fascinating. I never forget that my patients are people too!
What is the hardest thing about your job?
The hardest thing is equally as rewarding. We see patients who are going through some of the most difficult times in their lives, both emotionally and physically. Supporting them through this can also take its toll on us, and it can be hard to disconnect from that when we leave work.
When I hear that long-standing patients, or young patients, have passed away.
How long have you been a union Member?
I have been a union member since my first year working as an RT.
4 years.
What led you to decide to be a union Member?
My family has always had strong union values, so I knew from the get-go I would want to be a part of the union. I think it is important to stand together and support each other. The more I continue to learn about the union movement, the happier I am to be a part of it!
I joined the union to negotiate for better working conditions due to my employer reducing benefits, stopping pay rises and reducing staffing.
How has your week, as one of the Anna Stewart program participants, been so far?
My week in the program was a great experience. It felt like a real privilege to meet and learn from strong women from all walks of life. I have learnt a lot about leadership and have a greater understanding of the many issues affecting women in the workplace, and how we go about rectifying them.
I really enjoyed the program as the content was very relevant and informative. I loved meeting so many strong and amazing women. I feel so empowered and proud to be a woman.
Why do you think it’s important to empower women to be active leaders in their union?
Representation really matters. Especially in healthcare, where many areas are female-dominated, it is important that our leadership is an accurate reflection of the members they lead and represent. The more diverse our leadership is, the better it is for everyone involved!
Women bring unique experiences and viewpoints, leading to more comprehensive decision-making that reflects the needs of all members. Empowering women in union leadership helps to advocate effectively for policies that address gender equality, work-life balance and other important issues that affect both women and men.
What lessons will you take on board with the Anna Stewart Memorial project?
I have learnt a lot about different ways to deal with the challenges women face in the workforce and leadership roles. I think the most important thing I am taking away is that I am not alone in how I feel, and women everywhere share very similar experiences. While it’s comforting to know, it also makes it clear that there is a lot more work to be done and I am keen to play my part in continuing to make change!
I have learnt that women have the power to make important changes, whether it be personal or societal.
But the most important lesson that I have learnt is “not to give up”, even when things get tough, take a step back but “don’t give up”. This has given me the motivation I needed to not give up on helping bring about positive changes within my workplace.
What message would you like to give to future women entering the workforce that you wish you gave yourself starting your career journey?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek help when you need it! In my experience as someone who is still in the very early stages of my career, there have been many experienced staff who have been more than happy to support and mentor me when I have asked for advice. This has played a major role in giving me the confidence to advocate for myself and others in the workplace.
I would emphasize the importance of believing in your own values and capabilities. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and seek out opportunities even if they feel outside your comfort zone. Embrace changes as learning experiences, build a strong network of support and remember that collaboration and mentorship are essential for personal development. Never underestimate the power of your voice. Your contributions are valuable, so trust yourself and stay true to your vision.
