With more than three decades of experience in haemotology nursing, Vicky Andrews has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for patients facing some of the most complex and challenging diagnoses. As a Nurse Educator in the Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Ward at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, Vicky plays a critical role not only in patient care, but in shaping the next generation of nurses.
Earlier this year, Vicky was awarded an Arrow Jazz Travel Scholarship, enabling her to attend the Lymphoma Australia Health Professionals Conference 2026 – a valuable opportunity to deepen her knowledge and continue delivering the highest standard of care to her patients.
Driven by Patients, Grounded in Experience
For Vicky, the motivation to apply for the scholarship was clear: her patients.
“My inspiration came from my patients and the emerging treatments they have been able to receive.”
Having spent over 27 years working in the BMT unit at St Vincent’s, Vicky has witnessed firsthand the evolution of lymphoma treatment. Yet, in a rapidly advancing field, staying up to date remains both essential and challenging – particularly in her role as an educator.
When she learned she had been selected, Vicky described feeling “extremely thrilled”—a recognition not only of her dedication, but of the importance of ongoing professional development in specialised care.
Knowledge That Reinforces and Inspires
Throughout the conference, Vicky engaged with presentations on emerging therapies, clinical research, and patient care strategies. But the experience offered something equally valuable—confirmation and reinforcement of decades of clinical expertise.
“It reiterated all I have learned as a haematology nurse and cemented my knowledge.”
The rapid advancement of targeted therapies was a key highlight, strengthening Vicky’s confidence in administering these treatments and managing their side effects.
“The advances in targeted therapies are very promising and will give me confidence in administering these drugs to patients, knowing what I need to look out for.”
Translating Learning into Patient Impact
For Vicky, the true value of the conference lies in its direct application to patient care.
Armed with updated knowledge of treatments and outcomes, she is better equipped to support patients through both the clinical and emotional challenges of lymphoma.
“I have more knowledge on treatments, outcomes and better ways of easing symptoms and managing patient concerns.”
She identified a particularly important opportunity to improve patient transitions from hospital to home – a time that can be fraught with uncertainty.
“Many patients struggle with leaving hospital after treatment… Linking them into resources would give them something they could use to feel supported and confident in leaving the hospital system safely.”
This insight reflects Vicky’s holistic approach to care, ensuring patients are supported not just medically, but emotionally and socially as well.
A Meaningful Recognition
For Vicky, the Arrow Travel Scholarship represents more than just funding – it is an acknowledgement of her lifelong commitment to patients and to the nursing profession.
“It means that there are organisations who value my work and the dedication I have given to patients over a long period of time, and acknowledge my devotion to my patients and teaching junior nurses.”
She is also deeply appreciative of the donors, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, who made her attendance possible, recognising the broader impact of their support.
“Attending conferences expands knowledge that ultimately assists patients who are going through the worst time possible, as it gives them faith in the knowledge of treating staff.”
Continuing a Legacy of Care
Vicky’s story is one of dedication, compassion, and lifelong learning. Through the Arrow Travel Scholarship, she has not only strengthened her own practice but is continuing to elevate the care provided within her team and to the patients who rely on it.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that investing in healthcare professionals is, ultimately, an investment in better patient outcomes—and in the people at the heart of every treatment journey.