ER and paediatrics nurse Louise Westle had a special opportunity on Sunday, tossing the coin ahead of Melbourne’s Round 4 match against Geelong.
Louise, who worked tirelessly through the peaks of the COVID-19 pandemic in Victoria, is a life-long Demons supporter and was humbled to be considered for the occasion.
“When I was asked to toss the coin, I felt a little embarrassed, because so many healthcare workers were involved in our efforts to combat the pandemic – it takes a team to get through the challenges we faced,” she told Melbourne Media.
“I was, however, extremely honoured to be asked and I loved being out in the middle with big Max (Gawn) and Joel Selwood.”
Specialising in paediatric nursing at Monash Health, Louise was asked to re-join the ER team during the height of the pandemic, due to the significant increase in work.
“At times, it was really tough. You’re dealing with worried and concerned patients and their families, but that’s our role,” Louise said.
“We just try and remain as calm as possible to provide the support patients need to try and overcome the challenges ahead.”
Louise has always had a passion for working with kids and opted for paediatrics over teaching as a career path.
She was born into a staunch Melbourne family, and as a ‘Dee for life’, regularly attends the footy with her family.
Louise was afforded the opportunity to toss the coin by the Demons’ long-term partner New Balance, through their Giving Back campaign.
The initiative aims to bring about change through community projects and is a key part of New Balance’s global ethos.
