Self-described homebody thrust into worldly adventure

A self-described “introverted homebody”, she was happy to curl up with a pile of books between nursing shifts at the local hospital. 

Never could she have dreamed of living in rural Victoria, tending to patients in Edenhope’s acute ward. However, when COVID-19 hit, Gwyn’s comfortable, predictable bubble in the Philippines exploded. 

“People started to get laid off work, including my parents, and our financial situation wasn’t good,” she said. 

“I had to make money for my family, I’ve still got three younger siblings to support through school. I took a leap of faith and was suddenly flying in an aeroplane on my own for the first time.” 

Gwyn quickly passed all tests required to meet nursing standards in the United Kingdom and bid her safe-haven farewell. 

It was at the airport, among a cohort of Filipino nurses headed for the UK, that a shy and terrified Gwyn formed a life-altering friendship with Cat Pangilinan. 

Five years on, settled into life at Grampians Health Edenhope, Gwyn and Cat remain inseparable. 

“It was Cat who opened me up to a lot of experiences and new adventures,” Gwyn said. “She heard about the opportunities in Australia and we eventually followed some other friends to Ballarat and then Edenhope. 

“It was a nice way to slowly aclimatise ourselves to how Australian healthcare works.” 

Although the town is far smaller than she’s used to, Gwyn feels very comfortable with her quiet Edenhope life. 

“Everyone is very nice, offering to teach us how to drive and sharing travelling tips,” she said.

“I don’t need much; give me internet, Netflix and a horror movie and I am happy.”