The difference a day can make

It is one thing to notice an issue or problem.

We all do.

However, when we are very busy, it is difficult to think about it, and even more difficult to do anything about it. The issue usually gets shelved, and life gets in the way of making a difference.

Not so for a young doctor named Daniel Nour. He notices, thinks, and acts.

He was studying medicine at a university in North Queensland, Australia, and became interested in cardiology. He completed several placements in small country towns, and in his final year he travelled to London to further his studies with a placement in the cardiology department of London’s Imperial College. He was about twenty-five years old.

One day in June 2020, he saw a homeless person having a seizure at Waterloo Station and was pleased to be able to help. He doubtless felt a great sense of satisfaction at being on the spot – but the incident prompted deeper reflection. That day was life-changing for him.

He realised that those who are experiencing homelessness are far less able to access basic medical care. It’s a long flight back to Australia – but by the time his plane landed he had an idea, one which could not wait.

Dr Daniel Nour obtained a position at one of Sydney’s most prestigious hospitals – Royal North Shore. Within two months of seeing the man in London having a seizure, and despite working full-time at the hospital, he had set up a mobile medical service, called Street Side Medics, a not-for profit program, with just two volunteers.

His goal was to benefit homeless people in Australia; he was determined that already disadvantaged people would receive the medical care they needed and deserved. He was determined to make a difference, and to help fill the gap he saw in the health system.

Consider the time setting. Covid was spreading at an alarming rate in 2020. He would have been extremely busy at the hospital, and he and others were at risk of contracting Covid themselves, not only in the hospital environment, but through his street clinics. He shows not only compassion and kindness, but an attitude of sacrificial commitment to the well-being of others. 

Daniel, still working at Royal North Shore Hospital, now has 220 volunteers working alongside him in four different locations, and he ensures that the clinics run efficiently and that all patients can access appropriate medical treatment. He rarely misses these mobile clinics, which are now helping hundreds of vulnerable people each year.

His leadership skills are outstanding, and his social conscience is both a challenge and an encouragement to all.

One may well think that this is sufficient to keep this young man busy, but this doctor makes time to pursue another passion – he conducts research and writes papers for conferences and medical journals, in order to improve medical understanding and knowledge for future generations. His studies include the long-term impact of Covid on cardiology patients.

Bearing in mind that Daniel is less than three years into his medical career, it is astonishing to see his achievements already. Within seventeen months of establishing his mobile health stations, Daniel was named Young Australian of the Year for 2022, the youngest ever recipient of this honour. He has used the opportunity offered by multiple speaking engagements to share his vision of serving the weak and disadvantaged members of society.

One individual, one experience in London, one idea, but compassion and determination have brought his idea into fulfilment. To each of his patients, whether rich or poor, he makes a significant difference.

May there be a ripple effect, so we all become people who not only see an issue or problem, but become reflective, innovative, and prepared to act creatively to ease the burdens of as many as possible.

May we, like him, be filled with acceptance and care for others, regardless of their social status or achievements in life. This young man has shown that it can be done.