Donna Todd has found her sense of community in two of the bigger parts of her life – nursing and the Bendigo Triathlon Club.
She’s able to share her love of keeping fit and healthy – even by making the smallest changes – in both areas.
“It’s great to show people how they can thrive when they exercise,” she said.
“It doesn’t have to be huge changes either; it can be as simple as the couch to 5km.
“I try to encourage people to do it for themselves as much as I can.”
Donna has been a nurse for 15 years and worked her way up to her current role as a Regional Continence Consultant.
After spending time on the wards, she was able to get out and meet patients as a district nurse.
Her current role is community-based, allowing her help people where they’re most comfortable – in their homes.
“I love getting out and about and meeting new people, I think that’s what I love most,” Donna said.
Alongside work, Donna discovered her “addiction” when holidaying in Noosa in 2008.
“I saw a triathlon competition while I was there and was really intrigued.
“I didn’t love running, I still don’t, and I could barely swim 200m, but I wanted to give it a try.
“And the rest is history.”
Donna joined the Bendigo Triathlon Club and now trains for about an hour a day, alternating between riding, swimming and running.
“I’ll admit, there are some mornings I struggle to get up and go, but I can feel it when I haven’t fit my exercise in,” she said.
Donna now competes all across Australia and internationally.
“I went over and competed in the Age Group World Championships in Torremolinos, Spain in October last year, it was a fabulous experience,” she said.
“It’s great that there are so many opportunities for people to take part, both here and across the world.”
Discover how you can be your best with us at https://careers.lmhn.org.au/
Read more Be Your Best stories at https://bendigohealth.org.au/beyourbest