How long have you been involved as a volunteer with FRC?
Since 2010.
What do you like most about being a volunteer?
Enjoying the people, especially when they spot my dog, Skip.
I began ‘pet therapy’ volunteering with Skip, my now 15-year-old Golden Retriever x Border Collie, five years ago after being recommended by Joyce Thomas who thought Skip would be most suitable.
Skip grew up on a farm until he moved into Finley and needed walking on a daily basis, and this is when people starting to meet Skip. He loves everyone he meets, and people just love to stop and speak to and pat Skip. At Finley Regional Care he is loved so much by the Residents, especially those who lived on farms with working dogs like Skip. He gets very spoilt with yummy biscuits.
If you had to describe Finley Regional Care in four words, what would you say?
A really lovely atmosphere.
What has exceeded your expectations or surprised you the most being involved here?
How welcome you are made from all aspects.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Gardening, family, biblical studies and reading.
What’s your favourite quote or saying?
We work to make a living, but we make a life by what we give.
Where did you grow up?
West Ryde – Sydney.
Where else have you lived?
Lithgow, Dubbo, Berry, Exeter, (Wilton-Picton), Holbrook, Tocumwal and Finley – always in NSW.
What three traits define you?
Persevering, compassionate and positive thinker/having a positive attitude.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I haven’t thought of it yet.
Favourite movie?
The Sound of Music.
Best vacation you had?
From Broome to Cairns to Tocumwal on a bus trip with Christian Fellowship Tours, in the early 2000s.
If you could meet one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
My paternal grandmother who died eight years before I was born.
If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Breakfast.
If you were an animal what would you be?
A dog like Skip.
If you were stuck on an island what three things would you bring?
Bible, a change of clothes and a blanket.
Motto or personal mantra?
Think positively.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My life revolves around my faith. I was given four years to live at the age of 35, but believe God has kept me here for a purpose which I have followed and I have a wonderful family.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.
I am a good talker, so I don’t think there is anything that would surprise you.
Top two life highlights?
My marriage to a wonderful man and living long enough to rear my four children.
What did you want to be when growing up?
A medical missionary.
What has been the most important innovation you have witnessed in your lifetime?
TV in 1956 was unbelievable.
What is an ability you wish you had?
Being able to sing again.
What is on your bucket list?
Done them all.
What is the best concert you attended?
“It is Coal in the Furnace” by Picton Primary School in the mid-1970s.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life?
Adjusting to life for the past 43 years to being “exercise intolerant” and learning to live within that category and its abilities.
What is the most important thing you have learned in your life?
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
What is the one thing you cannot resist?
One small piece of chocolate each day.
What is the one thing you can’t live without?
My Christian Faith – the love of my Father in Heaven.
What is the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Mud pies.
What are the two worst things you did as a kid?
Let the two budgies out – I thought they should have freedom.
What is your favourite childhood memory?
My wonderful praying grandmother – praying for all her grandchildren.
What is your favourite number and why?
Seven – the number of days in the week.
What is your favourite sport?
Tennis.
What is your greatest fear?
Snakes.
What is your hidden talent?
It’s still hidden.
What is your personal philosophy?
Every person has good in them – sometimes it may be hard to find, but if you search you will find it.
What phobias do you have?
None.
What was your favourite book, toy, or outfit as a child?
Any book by Enid Blyton.
You’re happiest when?
I am doing God’s work.
