Sandra Nagel’s journey into chaplaincy began in the early 2000s when she volunteered at the Fraser Coast Palliative Care Service.
Reflecting on those initial experiences she recalls how meaningful those visits were to helping patients cope.
“I found those patients on the cancer journey were extremely vulnerable when ill.”
As Sandra delved deeper into her role, she encountered a range of human experiences.
“I learned that often the human journey was about death and pain, loss, complicated grief, accidents and illness,” she said.
“Explaining to young children they will soon be attending Mum’s funeral,” she shares.
She saw the sorrow of a young mother holding her stillborn baby and navigated complicated grief that manifested years after the loss of a loved one.
She started her helping career over 50 years ago when Lifeline first started in Maryborough.
“I was thrust into a world of domestic violence, suicide and mental illness,” she said.
“I was totally unprepared and not adequately trained to help these deeply troubled people to cope with life.”
This realisation propelled her to pursue further training, including a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Human Resources.
Sandra’s dedication saw her volunteering at Yaralla Place Aged Care Facility then part of Maryborough Hospital, where she continued her pastoral care.
She was deeply grateful for the support from ward managers and the opportunity to gain international experience including a scholarship to visit UK hospices.
“During that time, I came to a place in my counselling and life where I knew a change was taking place,” she said.
“I felt led to study chaplaincy, and I always say these were the best years of my working life.”
The course taught her the importance of being an authentic listener and non-judgmental caregiver.
“I learned it was not about collecting badges and my performance, but God’s ‘form’ in us,” she said.
“A ministry of presence, hope, and love.”
Her work was also filled with moments of joy and celebration, from Christmas carols to cutting cakes for ceremonies.
“I’ve learned it’s all about companioning patients on their life-journeys, good and bad,” she says, emphasising the importance of being part of a team.
Sandra has decided to retire from her volunteer work this year and has found herself reflecting on her journey.
“Healthcare has advanced dramatically, the many hands of all hospital worked contribute to good and meaningful patient care,” she said.
“Chaplains play one part of this therapeutic community, and often are the last team members to offer care and compassion to patients and their families.
“I cannot fully express my thanks to all who have supported and nurtured me over the years.”