Mum Sally Tolson nominated for top award

A Geelong mum’s own personal tragedy led her to want to care for others. Now she’s been nominated for an award to recognise her tireless work.

Care Giver Sally Tolson and her client Alide Di Cesare share a cup coffee in Alide's Bell Park home. Sally has been nominated for a national carers award. Picture Brad Fleet

Geelong mum Sally Tolson was just 15 when circumstances forced her to live in a women’s shelter.

The single mum of two’s said her challenging early life experiences shaped her to become the woman she is today and led her to work in the care sector.

The Home Instead Geelong care worker has been named a finalist in the company’s 2022 CAREGiver of the Year Awards.

Ms Tolson said she loved being be able to help people live life to the fullest.

“Anyone can go in and help with domestic tasks and be a support person, but I go in with the

intention of brightening someone’s day,” she said.

“If that means I have to feel less comfortable, then I do that.”

Ms Tolson said one client needed to swim to treat her osteoarthritis.

“Getting in the pool gives her a sense of purpose, value and confidence,” Ms Tolson said,

“I hate getting in my swimsuit and getting in the pool, but I love doing it for her. So, for

me, it’s about bringing a sense of enjoyment to each client’s life.”

Home Instead Geelong owner and director Giovanni Siano said Ms Tolson would be a worthy winner of the award.

“Sally is very much loved by all her clients and Geelong office staff alike,” Mr Siano said.

“She goes above and beyond at every service, with a positive can-do attitude and willingness to better everyone’s day.

“Due to difficult situations at home, being forced into a women’s refuge at age 15, and now being a single mother to two beautiful children, Sally knows what it is like to do it tough, what it feels like to not have a voice, to not feel connected, to not feel safe and what it feels like to have to lean on people for support.

“Sally is empathetic and respectful and can understand the vulnerability of clients, and this helps her to build trust and help clients with their specific needs.”

The award winners will be named at a gala event at The Star Gold Coast on November 9.

Originally published as Mum Sally Tolson nominated for top award