On Tuesday 10^th June, year 11 and 12 Cert III Health students took part in an excursion to the Princess Alexandra Hospital. We were the first school invited to the hospital this year!

Session one consisted of three nurses talking to us all about kidneys and their important function.

In Session two, students actually walked to the Renal unit and visited patients who were having Dialysis. Students got to see how the machines took blood from the body, filtered it and then put it back into the body. There were a few queasy moments, but it was amazing to see first hand how well the health system in Australia is.

In this ward, we met a number of inspirational people, including Alex, who was awaiting a kidney transplant (having already had a heart transplant, cancer and a flesh-eating disease). Alex showed us all optimism and resilience, talking happily about how his challenges are just a part of his life now.

In session three, students were lucky enough to meet Jordan, who was a 26-year old liver transplant recipient. Jordan told us about his health journey, surgeries and the recovery process.

To finish off the day, we had a Q&A with nurses and Jordan, before walking back to the bus and heading home.

We were commended on the behaviour and interest of our students.

It was a fantastic opportunity for our Health classes.

Naomi Gomersall.