Sue Ahearn is known as the face of Maternity at Queanbeyan Hospital. At Southern's 2024 Excellence Awards, Sue was a worthy winner of the Care and Kindness Award, alongside Janelle Hopwood.
Sue was nominated for the award by Maternity Unit Manager Emma Mann, who said she was "an unsung hero, and what Southern is all about.
"Not only is she the 'face' of Queanbeyan Maternity, but she is the glue that binds all the parts and pieces of the unit together," said Emma.
"Sue ensures that everyone that she interacts with feels heard, safe and valued."
"Sue provides kindness and calm when women call with concerns regarding their pregnancy, always escalating to the midwives and doctors, whilst remaining positive and appropriate to the women."
"So many women and their families regularly comment on the kindness and support that they have felt from Sue throughout their pregnancy and postnatal journey."
"Not every day is an easy one in Maternity, however Sue's smiling face, words of encouragement and regular 'check-ins' with the staff, make each day better."
Unfortunately Sue could not attend the ceremony, as she was laid up with COVID, but Emma video called her to make sure she could share in the moment her name was called out.
"I was blown away," said Sue. "I was really surprised - out of 300 people who were nominated. It was pretty special."
"I just treat people the way I would like to be treated when they make contact. And just do what I can to get them sorted."
Congratulations Sue!
Image courtesy of Gary Ramage / The Canberra Times
