When Helen McGregor first stepped into a podiatry clinic as a curious teenager, she had no idea it would lead to a career spanning more than 40 years. Today, she’s known across Northern NSW as a quiet achiever who has transformed podiatry services and lifted up everyone around her.
Helen was named Allied Health Professional of the Year at the NNSWLHD Allied Health Awards on 14 October. The award celebrates clinicians who go above and beyond in leadership, education and patient care.
“I didn’t know for a long time what I wanted to do,” Helen said.
“I knew it would be something in health, and then a friend of my sister’s introduced me to podiatry. I visited her practice, found it interesting and that’s where it all began.”
Since then, Helen has become a driving force in podiatry. She’s led multidisciplinary teams, mentored students and developed programs that have improved patient outcomes and supported clinicians.
“I get the pleasure of working with my colleagues across disciplines and learning from them and from patients every day,” Helen said.
“I find great satisfaction in using my skills to make a difference.”
Helen is especially passionate about mentoring.
“Seeing students arrive tentatively and leave as confident, competent clinicians is incredibly rewarding. It’s one of the best parts of the job.”
Lisa Beasley, General Manager, Community and Allied Health, said Helen’s leadership of the High-Risk Foot Service helped to prevent amputations, reduce hospitalisations and improve care for some of our most vulnerable patients.
“Helen’s impact has been felt far and wide,” Lisa said.
“She has formed podiatry services across the region with vision and dedication. Her work has had a lasting impact on both patients and professionals.”
Colleagues describe Helen as calm, generous and deeply committed.
“She’s the kind of person who never seeks the spotlight,” said one team member. “But she’s always there, lifting others up and making things better.”
This year, the Allied Health Professional of the Year category received 16 nominations. Two commendations were awarded, to Rebecca Pevitt and Jessica Jeffreys, for their outstanding contributions. Helen was named the overall winner, and the room lit up with smiles and applause.
“I’m very grateful for the recognition, I don’t think I do anything more than any other Allied Health professional does.”
The award recognises individuals who champion evidence-based practice, support a positive workplace culture and empower those around them. Helen’s career is a shining example of what it means to live the NSW Health CORE values.
Congratulations to Helen and to all the nominees.