Dust diseases are not yesterday’s problem. Mesothelioma, lung cancer and silicosis remain relevant, and that’s what drew me to the area. I knew I could make a real difference by advocating for ongoing research, patient care, and workplace changes to reduce hazards.As a clinician, I’m an advocate for my patients, their families, and their needs at the most difficult times. I see what I also do at the Asbestos Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI) as an extension of this advocacy, as a way to further improve health outcomes on a larger scale. As a Medical Oncologist, I completed my PhD investigating mesothelioma in 2014 with ADDRI, before following a pathway that led me to an appointment as Network Director of Physician Training at Concord Hospital, where I enjoyed supporting others, promoting education, and ensuring that healthcare professionals worked together cohesively.A natural collaborator, I’m back again at ADDRI while actively caring for patients and teaching at Concord Hospital as a Senior Staff Specialist. I’m also Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney.Community minded, I serve as the Chair of the Division of Medicine at Concord. I have also been the Clinical Lead on the Oncology and Haematology Electronic Medical Record (OHEMR) project, which involved implementing electronic chemotherapy prescribing and management. I’m compassionately honest with patients about the cancers I specialise in: thoracic cancers and dust diseases, as well as genitourinary cancers, including prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular. Every journey is different, and for some, recovery is completely achievable; for others, length and quality of life are the best possible outcomes, but throughout, I’m always optimistic.A theme throughout my career is ensuring we are all working toward the same goals. At ADDRI, I guide research and strategy, plan projects, and oversee our scientists' work. It’s great to be a clinician in this role because it’s the clinical impact and how our work is translated into outcomes that matters. I also know firsthand that research is stressful which is why I check in often and make sure the staff are coping. Outside of work, I’m passionate about film and music, hobbies I love sharing with my kids. I play piano and enjoyed guitar lessons—I even won Concord’s Got Talent two years in a row. If you are a dedicated patient advocate like me, let’s connect.
