Growing up in the Philippines, Catherine didn't see much of her mum who left when she was six to work around the world as an RN, coming back only a few times a year to visit. Twenty one years later, Catherine joined her mum in Australia, as a single mum and began studying nursing as an international student.  When I asked Catherine to describe what her role as a care manager in aged care entails she said "I always tell the families of my residents that in their absence I am your family member's biggest advocate." Catherine's story is a heart warming tale of perseverance and finding your calling in an often overlooked specialty.  If you have ever been curious to work in aged care, looking for a career change, or are a new grad who has missed out on a placement- this podcast episode is for you.