Our conversation begins with the unfortunate reality of living with MND, its impact on the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of suffers and their loved ones. Lok shares what drew him to this work and introduces his framework, “The Four Things That Matter Most,” which guides his approach to end-of-life care.

Together, we unpack how emerging technologies—such as voice banking, digital twins, eye-gaze control, powered voice synthesis and wearable technologies to support communication, autonomy and dignity throughout the course of the illness. It creates access when communication becomes inaccessible.

Looking ahead, Lok reflects on the future of healthcare and what the next frontier of technology may offer people living with MND and other life-limiting illness.

Breaking the forth wall- will need to discuss the what’s next- it sounds groundbreaking.  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together, they explore what grief really is, how our understanding of it is changing, and what a more grief-literate Australia could look like in practice. Chris also reflects on emerging trends, the role of government, and what gives him hope for the future of grief support in Australia.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris breaks down health economics in practical terms, explores the real-world implications for aged care and palliative care, and reflects on the economic challenges facing the system amid rapid reform, workforce shortages and shifting government priorities.

We discuss how concepts like value, resource allocation and quality of life are understood (and sometimes misunderstood), and what Chris sees that others may not.

References discussed throughout:

Association of advance care planning with hospital use and costs at the end of life: a population-based retrospective cohort study | BMJ Open

Measures of health and health care for Australia and similar countries - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and Australia (EN) 2023 OECD Report

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A truly inspirational and dedicated young man.

👉 kai-fella.com.au

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I sat down with Ed Gaudian, a leader in WA palliative care, to reflect on this year’s theme. Ed’s career has spanned emergency, ICU, hospice innovation and statewide consultancy. His first encounter with palliative care was transformative: “I viewed it from a new lens… clinical teams putting the patient first.”

He’s seen the field evolve from an oncology focus to supporting people with complex, diverse needs. But despite progress, system navigation and funding pressures remain major barriers, with many patients falling through the cracks.

New aged care standards are raising expectations for residential facilities to deliver quality end-of-life care. Ed sees this as a positive shift, supported by stronger education, community awareness and teamwork.

He reminds us that often, “it’s the smallest things that matter.” From arranging final wishes to simple acts of comfort, person-centred care is built on human connection.

This World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, let’s celebrate providers, share stories, and advocate for equitable access — so that quality palliative care truly reaches everyone

References:

Palliative Care WA

Home - Ambulance Wish Western Australia

MPaCCS (Palliative Care Consultancy Service) - Bethesda Health Care

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive into the history of the organisation, the importance of R U OK? Day, and—most importantly—how to start meaningful conversations that can make a real difference.

If you’d like to learn more or access resources, head to www.ruok.org.au.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the importance of having conversations - at the individual, cultural, and systems level, while unpacking stigma, shifting mindsets, and everything in between.

Whether you're supporting the men in your life or reflecting on your own experiences and parenting, this episode offers genuine insights and practical takeaways.

This conversation aligns with Men’s Health Week (9–15 June), highlighting the need for greater awareness, connection, and action around men’s wellbeing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive into their motivations, personal experiences, and the meaningful takeaways they gain from giving back. It’s a heartfelt conversation that highlights just how powerful and rewarding volunteering can be.

Enjoy!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me for a conversation with Sabena Lund and Julia Kennington from Palliative Care WA as they share their expertise on creating documents that reduce stress, offer peace of mind, and improve health outcomes – all while avoiding the dreaded “What would they want?” moment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together, we explore grief, loss, and bereavement—unpacking the ways we navigate these experiences and how we can honour and uphold the memory of those who are no longer physically with us.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deeply moved, Darryl responded to a newspaper advertisement seeking volunteers, and since then, he has become an integral part of our family.

In this episode, we delve into Darryl’s transition from paid employment to his voluntary role, explore the memorable highlights of his journey, and uncover the motivations that fuel his dedication.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our conversation today aligns with Nurse Practitioner Week and the opening of PaSCE Scholarship applications for 2025. Stay tuned as we dive into Katrina’s remarkable journey, her insights on nursing, and the importance of continued education in the field.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

She also talks about her own journey into breast cancer nursing, driven by personal experiences with breast cancer in her family. Carrie emphasises the importance of individualised care, managing patient expectations, and supporting mental and emotional well-being. The episode also touches on the challenges of nursing burnout, with Carrie offering advice on self-care and longevity in the profession. Finally, she provides practical tips for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, including finding a breast care nurse and focusing on personal well-being throughout treatment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They discuss the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with dementia, as highlighted in recent reports. Dr. Sykes emphasises the importance of reducing this stigma, staying socially active to slow the progression of the disease, and increasing community support for those affected. They also explore the rising prevalence of early-onset dementia and the need for better awareness, early diagnosis, and risk reduction strategies, such as physical activity and healthy living. Dr. Sykes introduces the BrainTrack app, which helps individuals monitor cognitive health and prompts discussions with GPs.

The episode concludes with a call to utilise resources like Dementia Australia’s helpline and e-learning programs to support those affected by dementia. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Claudine Barnes as she talks about the inception of the Hospice movement here in WA with Cancer Council CEO Ashley Reid. Following the birth of the hospice movement at Crawford Lodge under the care of Cancer Council WA, to the many metro and regional Hospice Centres located across the state under the Department of Health, WA Country Health Services and Community Hospice movements.

Listen in as we embark on a discussion that Hospice care is for anyone with a life limiting illness. We explore definitions of palliative and hospice care and tackle some misconceptions that can sometimes build unconscious bias within our communities. Our aim is to provide health professionals with information and links to helpful sites and also pay homage to the wonderful services currently offered to our community not only through CCWA but other West Australian Organisations. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.