In the realm of inspiring stories of resilience and determination, Julie Loomes' journey is nothing short of extraordinary. A former power-lifting champion with an impressive collection of world records, Julie's life took an unexpected turn when she suffered a stroke in 2010. Her path to recovery and self-discovery is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the incredible support that Bendigo TAFE can offer. In this blog, we'll delve into Julie's remarkable story of overcoming adversity, reclaiming her life, and finding her true vocation in the healthcare field.
Julie's life changed dramatically when she suffered a stroke in 2010. Her successful career in the fitness industry came to a grinding halt as she had to take a break for three to four years. This life-altering event left her grappling with uncertainty and a longing to regain her independence.
Julie's determination to rebuild her life led her to Bendigo TAFE in 2016. She enrolled in the Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (HLT43015) course with a vision to work in hospitals and inspire others who had faced similar challenges. Her belief was simple: by showcasing her own recovery, she could motivate others on their journey to rehabilitation.
After successfully completing the two-year Allied Health Assistant course, Julie's passion for the healthcare field grew stronger. In 2019, she decided to upskill and enrolled in the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121), demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her newfound path.
Tragically, in 2020, Julie suffered a second stroke while nearing the completion of her nursing course. Medical professionals expressed doubt about her ability to recover, but her husband, a source of unwavering support, refused to lose hope. In a remarkable turn of events, Julie defied expectations and was able to return home within days of her second stroke. Just three weeks later, she walked back into the classroom.
Completing her Diploma of Nursing in 2022, Julie went on to secure a position as a Nurse's Assistant at a local hospital. She attributes her remarkable journey to the invaluable support she received from Bendigo TAFE and her dedicated teachers.
Julie's thirst for knowledge remains unquenchable. She's set her sights on pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing online at University, all thanks to the encouragement and assistance she received from Bendigo TAFE.
Julie's unwavering message to others is clear: "I would always encourage people to go to TAFE, you learn so much." Her journey stands as a shining example of how educational institutions like TAFE can transform lives, offering not just knowledge but also hope, support, and a pathway to a brighter future.
For mature-aged students who may be contemplating returning to study, Julie offers simple yet impactful advice: "I would say get in there and enrol immediately. If you don’t know what course to do, see the course advisors or the teachers; everyone is so helpful."
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