Parisa Alai

My name is Parisa, and I have been a registered nurse for 14 years. Throughout my career, I have cared for patients requiring palliative support, but my most profound experience with palliative care came through caring for my mum during her battle with breast cancer. 

As a nurse, there was an expectation that I would know how to navigate every aspect of the journey. At times, this made it difficult to simply be a daughter, as I often found myself stepping into the role of the nurse instead of the daughter. 

I now work within a community palliative care service, supporting individuals and families as they navigate the complexities of caring for a loved one with a terminal illness. 

I am passionate about advocating for both people living with terminal illness and their families, ensuring carers feel supported and empowered to remain present as loved ones — not solely as caregivers.

If you would like to engage Parisa or another consumer representative for your project, please complete an application form and return to projects@palliativecare.org.au or call 02 6232 0700.