Mother daughter health care duo Elaine and Ashlee Taylor

8 May 2026

It’s not often you get to work alongside your mum, but for Geraldton Hospital duo Elaine and Ashlee Taylor, caring for patients side-by-side has become part of everyday life. 

This Mother’s Day, the mother-daughter duo are reflecting on their shared passion for health care that has strengthened not only their careers, but also their relationship. 

Elaine joined St John of God Geraldton Hospital in 2019 as a Patient Care Assistant, inspired by her own family history in nursing. 

“My mum and aunties were nurses, which inspired my passion for helping others,” Elaine said. 

A year later, Ashlee followed in her footsteps, joining the hospital as  an enrolled nurse at age 19 and progressing to a Clinical Nurse who has increasingly stepped into the Acting Nurse Unit Manager role. 

Both describe each other as reliable, thoughtful and hardworking, with a shared commitment to patient care. 

Ashlee said one of the qualities she admired most about her mum was the way she always goes above and beyond for patients. 

“She does everything with a smile, which is also what she is like as a mum,” Ashlee said. 

For Elaine, Ashlee’s dedication and leadership qualities stand out most. 

“She is assertive and a perfectionist who always wants to make sure everyone is well cared for,” Elaine said. 

Working together has strengthened their relationship and given them a deeper understanding of the challenges that can come with working in health care. 

“Working in health care can be emotionally draining at times,” Elaine said. “Having someone close to you who understands what you’re feeling and what you’ve experienced definitely helps.” 

Ashlee said having her mum alongside her professionally had been a constant source of support throughout her career. 

“She celebrates the highs but is also there to support me in the lows,” Ashlee said. 

At the close-knit regional hospital, the pair have become well known among colleagues for their banter and strong working relationship. But beyond the humour, both say the best thing about working together is the support they can offer each other after difficult shifts. 

This Mother’s Day, Elaine and Ashlee’s story is a touching reminder of the important role support, connection and compassion play and the lasting impact they can have - both in families and in health care.