Judy Nelson: A heart of gold at the heart of Balclutha
In the small South Otago town of Balclutha, there’s one name that’s become synonymous with compassion, consistency, and community, Judy Nelson.
After 27 years with Clutha Health First and a vital role with the Mobile Surgical Unit (MSU). Judy’s dedication runs deep. She wears many hats from outpatients and medical records to mobile surgical services coordination but it’s her genuine care for people that makes her a true Local Legend.
“I’ve been here for a long time,” she says with a smile, “which speaks volumes about the culture here.”
For Judy, her role is more than just a job, it’s a calling to serve the people around her. “My favourite part about this role is truly making others happy,” she says. “We have a special community here in Balclutha. Due to its small size, it has that ‘everyone knows everybody’ feeling. It’s special having personal connection with the families here.”
She’s seen generations grow up quite literally. “One second a patient is a child seeing our paediatric team, and then the next thing they’re all grown up having their own babies,” she reflects. “That’s what makes this special. It truly is a tight-knit community, and it is an honour to serve the people here.”
Judy’s positivity and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed. The anonymous colleague who nominated her for a Local Legend Award shared,
“Judy is always wearing a smile on her face. She consistently gives a positive welcome to the staff on the MSU. She is profoundly motivated to make the most of each bus visit looking for ways to get surgeons and her local community patients on the bus. She is an example to all coordinators nationally.”
That spirit of going the extra mile is what drives Judy every day.
“Making people smile, helping them to feel happy gives me so much joy,” she says. “The difference that we can make to someone’s day or life is truly so remarkable.”
It’s this kind of everyday dedication that defines our Local Legend Awards. It’s all about recognising those who pour their heart into their mahi and make a lasting impact in their communities.
Know someone like Judy? Nominate your Local Legend here