When Natale Maiorana’s mother fell ill, he became her primary carer and it was during this time that he discovered a new life passion.
That passion led him to leave his job as a greengrocer to become a support worker at MercyCare. After 19 years working with clients at MercyCare’s Davis House and McAuley House, Nat has made the decision to retire.
“After 19 years, I felt like the time was right to finish up,” Nat said.
Over the years, Nat has found common ground with the clients he has worked with. Clients at Davis House which is a respite-centre that provides support to people living with dementia. He has formed strong bonds over their shared love of music.
Early Days at MercyCare
An avid record collector, Nat would often bring in his personal music collection to Davis House to play for clients. The clients liked to listen and reminisce about their younger years.
In his early days working at MercyCare, Nat would drive the bus for weekly outings.
The Tulip Festival, Kings Park, fishing, and the Zoo are all trips that stand out in his memory.
“I used to take the residents into the city and they would talk about how much it has changed,” Nat said.
“It would bring back a lot of memories for them.”
In addition to his role as support worker, Nat was also tasked with the important role of Santa.
Since 2003, Nat has donned the red hat and jacket each year, which brought joy to both his clients and fellow colleagues.
“I enjoyed being Santa and joining in on the carol singing,” Nat said. “The suit does get a bit hot though.”
What’s next for Nat
Nat will be remembered fondly by his colleagues, most notably MercyCare Senior Support Worker Wendy Palmer who has worked alongside Nat for the last 13 years.
“He has a special place in our hearts,” Wendy said.
The thing that Wendy will miss about Nat is his ability to add a little bit of magic to everything he does, without expecting anything in return.
While he’s not sure of what’s next in store next for him, Nat said he is looking forward to his retirement.
“To all the current and former staff, thank you – it’s been a pleasure,” he said, adding that it is the friendships he has made at MercyCare that he will miss the most.
