Melbourne Nurse Belinda Stojanovski has been recognised for her extraordinary long-term dedication and commitment to paediatric stroke, becoming a finalist for the Stroke Foundation and Stroke Society of Australasia (SSA) 2019 Stroke Care Champion Award.
Working from the Royal Children's Hospital, the Stroke Unit Nurse Coordinator has dedicated her working life to ensuring young stroke survivors receive the best care and rehabilitation outcomes possible. This includes being involved in research programs at a state, national and international level, educating other nurses about paediatric stroke, and supporting babies, children and their families throughout their stroke journey.
Ms Stojanovski said it was a great surprise and honour to be named as a finalist for the award.
"Not only am I thrilled to see the paediatric stroke space get more exposure nationally, but I'm so happy knowing our efforts to improve the care and outcomes for paediatric stroke survivors are being recognised," Ms Stojanovski said.
"It's my patients that inspire me the most; their determination, their drive, their personalities and their supportive families push me to do better in my role and career."
In being nominated for the award, Ms Stojanovski was described as somebody who is a leader in the field of stroke research and education, a strong advocate for her patients and families, as well as being a selfless and kind person.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan congratulated Ms Stojanovski on her achievement.
"Thank you to Ms Stojanovski for her enormous commitment to improving stroke research and rehabilitation outcomes for young stroke survivors,'' Ms McGowan said.
"With stroke affecting around 200-300 babies and children each year, we need champions like Ms Stojanovski to lead the way in paediatric stroke care.
"Stroke can affect anyone at any age- it is a devastating disease which attacks the brain and changes lives in an instant, but it can be treated and it can be beaten."
There were around 20 nominations for 2019 Stroke Care Champion Award. Nominees included neurologists, stroke nurses, occupational therapists, psychologists and researchers, with three named as finalists.
