Past and present Nurses find joy in the community

For Janet Tooke, finding somewhere to live was a blessing but finding somewhere to live within a community at Juniper Rowethorpe retirement living has brought her newfound happiness.

The former Enrolled Nurse was homeless and sleeping on her daughter’s couch when an apartment became available at Juniper Rowethorpe.

“I was so anxious at the time because I had nowhere to go. I put the plea to God to help me, and that’s when Juniper offered me a beautiful apartment at Rowethorpe. It was a blessing that changed my life,” Janet said.

Since moving to Juniper Rowethorpe, Janet has made lifelong friends, has become involved in the craft groups, and loves having the Rowethorpe café and bus stop right on her doorstep.

“The whole concept of being part of the Juniper Rowethorpe community means a lot to me. I no longer drive, and I live alone, but I never feel alone. I have everything I need around me, including friends who have become my family,” Janet said.

“I used to be a full-time carer for an Italian lady with dementia, so I know the value of good care within the home, and I am now lucky enough to receive that from Juniper when I need it.”

Janet also attends the Juniper Rowethorpe Day Centre for physiotherapy services once a week.
“My goal is to live independently at home forever, and thanks to the help of Robert Moore, Juniper Community Physiotherapist, I am getting stronger and more confident. I had surgery earlier this year and since doing Roberts exercises, I can walk again, unaided!” Janet added.

For Laura Di Renzo, Juniper Community Registered Nurse, working in the community to help her clients live independently in the comfort of their own homes brings her the most joy.

“My favourite part of my job is making someone’s day a little better. I love having a joke with my clients and making them smile, all while delivering personalised care in their homes,” Laura said.

Laura joined Juniper as a Community Care Advisor in 2020 and became a Community Registered Nurse this year.

“I had an amazing mentor who taught me a lot about aged care and ignited my passion to apply for a community job at Juniper. I worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and it taught me a lot about resilience and the importance of community spirit.”

“Working within the community and ensuring my clients get the care and support they need to stay living independently is so important as it maintains their quality of life,” Laura said.