MICHELLE Sharwood says it's the little things that make a big difference when you're working in aged care.
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The board of directors of Whiddon obviously agree because they recently presented Ms Sharwood, who works at Whiddon Kelso, with their award for those who go the extra mile to make a difference to residents' lives.
"Every day is a reward," Ms Sharwood said of aged care.
"It's just the little things that you can do to make their [residents'] day just a little bit better.
"And the staff here are amazing. They're here to assist with the betterment of their [residents'] daily lives - to keep their independence and to assist with their daily cares.
"Just chatting with them, it brightens up their day. They are able to tell you their story. All of them are fantastic."
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Ms Sharwood received her Whiddon Board of Directors Award - which recognises aged care employees from across the company's homes and services in NSW and Queensland - at a recent dinner in Sydney.
Nominated for "consistently going above and beyond to make a difference to the lives of residents, employees and families at Whiddon Kelso", according to the company, Ms Sharwood was described as someone who "takes on challenges with great enthusiasm and is warm, welcoming and friendly".
"Michelle is amazing and is often the first person you'll see when you walk through our doors," Whiddon Kelso director of care services Nicole Mahara said.
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"You always know that you're going to get a friendly smile and a warm welcome, and she takes the time to get to know everyone and what matters most to them.
"Michelle is innovative and always looks for creative solutions. She is a highly respected team member and is supportive of everyone around her.
"Michelle is also compassionate and goes out of her way to help residents and families navigate aged care and provide comfort and support on their aged care journey."
You know you're going to get a friendly smile.
Ms Sharwood has worked at Whiddon Kelso for nine years, the last eight of them in administration.
"I sort of fell into it," she said of aged care.
"I had my children and had seven years' break and, from there, I started off in cleaning and catering [at Whiddon Kelso].
"I had already worked in admin prior and then I fell into the role in admin here and just loved it.
"Whiddon has offered chances for education. I've done the business and administration certificate four and they have also offered me more education in doing the AIN certificate, which is fantastic, and have also sent me through a business management course diploma. I'm just finishing that."
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Ms Sharwood was nominated for the Whiddon Board of Directors Award by her fellow staff members at Whiddon Kelso for various reasons, one of which was volunteering her time during the annual candlelight dinner held for residents.
While recognition at the top is nice, Ms Sharwood said it was also nice to be recognised by her peers.
"I work with a fantastic group of people, so to be nominated for the award was already a winning feeling," she said.
"And then to win there [at the awards night] was just amazing. I was in shock, actually."
