Meet Chelsea

Chelsea’s career began in auditing and HR, but after living in Spain and Ireland and travelling throughout Europe she realised she was ready for a change in pace. When she returned to New Zealand, she took on a role as Family Support Coordinator at Ronald McDonald House.

Two years later, an opportunity came up for Chelsea to deepen her experience as a Family Support Coordinator by making the move to Child Cancer Foundation, so she grabbed it with both hands. Chelsea’s calming and observant nature makes her the perfect person to be there for families throughout their childhood cancer experience.

1. What made you want to be a Family Support Coordinator at Child Cancer Foundation?

I worked as a Family Support Coordinator previously for RMHC, where I learned so much. However, I was ready to further my experience as an FSC and work with families on a longer term basis. The role at Child Cancer Foundation seemed to fit what I was looking for.

2. What does a typical week look like in your job?

Very busy. My week usually consists of family visits (in the home, community or hospital), internal meetings and catching up on admin. I have learned that you need to be flexible as often visits with families can change at the last minute. I try to space out visits with families as it is important to have time afterwards to debrief and follow up on any resulting work.

3. What fuels your passion for your work?

I feel privileged to be in a position to help people in some of the most vulnerable times in their life. It is humbling that the families trust in you and open their lives to you. I love being able to make a small difference in the families’ lives, even just by listening or providing them with some options they may not be aware of.

4. What is the most challenging part of your job?

When families are having particularly challenging moments/days, knowing how to navigate those conversations and say the right things can be delicate. Sometimes silence and just being a listening ear is all they need but learning to speak with empathy and sensitivity, while also helping them get through that difficult moment, is always an area of learning.

5. What makes you the right person to support the children and families you work with?

I have always been observant and a good listener. People come from all walks of life and face their own challenges and situations. I have a genuine interest to listen, to understand and to help in some way because often just being heard can be enough. I am fortunate enough to be able to listen and support people in this role, and this gives me a lot of fulfilment (and enjoyment).

6. How do you maintain a good work/life balance?

Child Cancer Foundation is good at supporting work/life balance, encouraging things such as turning phones and laptops off outside hours and not working overtime. Outside of work I love to spend quality time with my partner and family; this is what fills up my cup and keeps me going.

7. What do you think families appreciate most about what you do?

All families require different support at different times, but I think the thing all families are comforted by is knowing someone (outside of their family/peers) is there walking beside them. Even if it is just a phone call to check in, they know they are not alone.