In National Diabetes Week (11 – 17 July), we meet a Cabrini staff member with a special reason for pursuing a career in this field.

Asha MaryKurian is an adventurous soul whose work as a nurse has taken her from India to Ireland and Australia.

After 23 years of nursing, she is taking her career in a new direction.

Asha is moving into Diabetes Education at Cabrini, inspired by the experience of her father, who had Type 2 diabetes.

Asha completed her Graduate Certification in Diabetes Education at Deakin while working on the wards at Cabrini. She will be a fully qualified diabetes nurse educator once she has completed 1000 hours of professional placement.

“Once you start to learn about diabetes, it’s a huge topic,” she says.

“I have been volunteering in the department one day a week, and I attended a camp for children with diabetes, eight to 10 years old, most of them had insulin pumps. And I saw how beautifully they manage.

“My passion is increasing and I want to learn more, to use my skills in a different way.”

While Asha is new to diabetes education, she knows that her life experience is an invaluable resource.

“I have experienced different cultures, values and beliefs, and I bring all this to my work,” she says.

“We offer reassurance and support – this makes people feel comfortable. They feel happy knowing that someone is here for them.”

To learn more about Diabetes Education or other Cabrini services, visit  www.cabrini.com.au/services/allied-health