"Born To Heal"

In 2013, I came to St George’s Hospital after a T-bone car accident. I was in my late 20s, had just moved to Australia from New Zealand, and I was young and naïve. I was also coming out of a horrible breakup, which is no excuse for what followed, but it did put me in a dark place mentally — and I am thankful for the care and empathy the staff at this hospital showed me.

Instead of recognising the seriousness of what had happened, I walked out of the hospital and went straight back to work the next day. Deep down, I was embarrassed and didn’t know how to manage my emotions. Looking back, I realise I didn’t treat the hospital staff with the respect they deserved. For that, I want to sincerely apologise.

Now, in June 2025, life has brought me back here — my partner’s mum is now in hospital after a car crash. As I stand in Hall 1, Room 1, I see the staff working through fatigue and frustration, but also with an undeniable passion and care. It made me reflect deeply on my actions all those years ago.

That’s why I call this “Born to Heal.” I can see clearly now that emergency staff don’t do this job for money — I believe they do it out of empathy, commitment, and an extraordinary sense of purpose. I’ve spent years working in business, and I’ve seen people rewarded far more for doing far less. I think what you do here is priceless.

I would like to offer my support in any way I can — especially for patients who might be in the state of mind I once was: scared, overwhelmed, and unable to see past themselves. I believe there should be more focus on empathy — for staff, patients, and the wider community. If I had understood that back then, I would have acted very differently.

To the beautiful people who showed empathy in my darkest moment: thank you. Please know that you are seen, you are valued, and you are appreciated more than words can capture.

If there’s any way I can support your incredible work I would love to.

With gratitude and respect,

inspiremr33