Every day, our incredible team brings compassion, expertise and kindness to patients and whānau across the Western Bay of Plenty. In our Staff Spotlight series, we’re introducing you to some of the people behind Waipuna Hospice and sharing what inspires them, what they love about their work, and the difference they make every day.
First up is Kassia Daysh, one of our Community Registered Nurses. From supporting people in their own homes to advancing palliative care through postgraduate research, Kassia shares what it’s really like to work at Waipuna Hospice.
How would you describe your role to someone who’s never experienced hospice care?
As a Community Nurse, I support people living with life-limiting illnesses in their own homes, helping them live as comfortably and fully as possible. Every patient and whānau is different, so the care we provide is individualised, compassionate and holistic. From managing complex symptoms to working alongside GPs and other healthcare professionals, our focus is always on improving quality of life and supporting people through every stage of their journey.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about Waipuna Hospice?
I think many people assume hospice is only for the very end of life, but that’s not the case. We provide specialist palliative care and support much earlier, helping patients manage complex symptoms and improve their quality of life, most of the time while they’re still living at home. Often our support is provided in episodes of care. We may become involved when someone needs specialist input, step back when things are well managed, and return again if their needs change. Alongside this, we support whānau and other healthcare providers with education and advice.
What do you enjoy most about being a Community Nurse at Waipuna Hospice?
I genuinely love coming to work each day. Caring for people during what can be one of the most difficult times in their lives is a real privilege, and being welcomed into their homes and trusted by their whānau is something I never take for granted. If I can bring even a small amount of comfort or reassurance to someone, that’s incredibly rewarding.
How are you continuing to grow and develop in your career?
I’m currently completing my dissertation towards a Master of Nursing, researching a topic I’m deeply passionate about – addressing the ongoing inequities Māori experience in accessing specialist palliative care. I hope my research can help create meaningful change, both here in our community and across the wider health sector.
I’m always looking for opportunities to learn and grow so I can provide the best possible care for my patients. While I’m considering a prescribing pathway in the future, the most rewarding part of my career will always be walking alongside patients and whānau and making a difference in their lives.
