Volunteering, Advocacy and Resilience: Vivienne’s Inspiring Life at Rylands of Kew
Thirty years ago, the world committed to a bold vision for gender equality through the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Since then, we’ve seen women break barriers, reshape policies, and ignite global movements. A stellar example is Vivienne whose story is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic lives of the residents at Rylands of Kew.
A Life of Purpose and Achievement
Vivienne’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. A former teacher turned marketing and public relations professional, she has dedicated her life to charitable work. One of her most significant achievements is bringing Red Nose Day to Australia, a campaign that has since become an iconic fundraising and awareness event for the Sudden Infant Death Research Foundation.
Recalling the early days of the campaign, Vivienne shares: “We raised a lot of money. I ran it for the first three years nationally. It was an incredible experience. It just took off – like riding the crest of a wave. It was on every single television. I was just so proud of it because it made such an impact.” Her tireless efforts and passion were instrumental in establishing the event as a cornerstone of charitable giving in Australia.
Vivienne’s commitment to making a difference didn’t stop there. Through her business, Innovative Special Events, she launched the World of Trivia for Epilepsy National Program, which combined education and fundraising in schools across Australia. “It was all about awareness,” Vivienne explains. “We taught children about epilepsy – what it is, how to react if someone had a seizure, and the importance of reducing stigma. Kids worked in teams, and the program raised significant funds for epilepsy research while teaching valuable life lessons.” The program was a national success, culminating in championships where teams from schools competed, including a winning team, one of which included Prime Minister John Howard’s son. John Howard later went on to strongly support the campaign.
Vivienne also ran initiatives to raise awareness for Muscular Dystrophy, helping to educate children about the challenges faced by wheelchair users. Her work continued to innovate, blending education with advocacy to make a real difference.
Facing Breast Cancer with Resilience
Vivienne’s life took a turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer – twice. While the first diagnosis didn’t inspire immediate action, her second battle ignited a new resolve. “I was so angry,” she recalls. “I thought, I’ve been there, done that, and now this again?”
Her experience led her to Breast Cancer Network Australia, founded by her mentor, Lyn Swinburne. “It was time to give back,” Vivienne explains. “I survived once, and I was going to survive again.” Through her involvement, she supported countless women and became a powerful advocate for breast cancer awareness.
One story from this time still makes her laugh. “I only went for a breast screen because they were offering a free plant! Can you believe that? But it worked. I’m so grateful I went, and it turned into a great story for their campaign encouraging other women to go for screenings.”
Overcoming Loss and Supporting Stroke Survivors
Vivienne’s resilience was further tested when her husband Peter suffered multiple strokes. While he eventually regained some physical abilities, he was left with severe intellectual and communication challenges. “He couldn’t say my name or the names of our children or grandchildren again,” Vivienne remembers. “But somehow, Peter always remembered their ages.”
Caring for Peter became a full-time role, and it opened her eyes to the lack of support for stroke survivors and their families. After Peter’s passing, Vivienne became deeply involved in stroke advocacy, determined to make a difference.
“Peter passed away after having five strokes. It was a hard time, but it inspired me to get involved with carers’ groups and stroke support networks. I’ve been President of a pro-active carers’ organisation for many years now.”
Even today, she works full-time as a volunteer, promoting and enabling programs like the chatterbox group, which helps stroke survivors regain communication skills and find a sense of community. The message is “You Are Not Alone”.
Why Rylands of Kew?
After the passing of her husband, Vivienne made the decision to move to Rylands of Kew, seeking a place that offered security, community, and an opportunity to continue her active lifestyle.
“I wanted a place which was smaller and intimate she explains. My husband passed away, and I felt it was time that I made a decision. I was very happy with my home… but it was just the right time. The friendships I’ve made here are just wonderful and so supportive. The security is invaluable for peace of mind.”
Living at Rylands has enabled Vivienne to focus on her volunteer work without the pressures of maintaining a large home. “If I were still in my old home, doing all the life admin, I don’t think I’d have the time or energy to keep up with this. Being here has given me the space to continue doing what I love, which is volunteering.”
At Rylands, she also chairs the social activity group, where she organises events and encourages fellow residents to engage with the beautiful gardens and stay socially connected. “Because of the work I do, I know how important nature is. I know how important gardens are. I know how important social interaction is. And you’ve got all those things here,” she says.
Beyond her volunteer efforts, Vivienne finds joy in the friendships and community spirit that define life at Rylands.
Shaping Community and Breaking Stereotypes
Far from conforming to traditional views of retirement living, residents like Vivienne are redefining what it means to grow older.
Through her work as the chair of the social activity group at Rylands, she inspires fellow residents to engage with nature, socialise, and stay active. “It’s so beautiful in that garden,” she says. “It’s so good for everyone… particularly at our age. I just love inspiring people.”
Looking Ahead
At 84, Vivienne is not slowing down. She continues to advocate for better support for stroke survivors and is working to encourage councils across Australia to provide spaces for groups like hers.
“There are over 3,000 people in our municipality living with stroke – 450,000 nationwide. And yet, support is so patchy,” she explains. “Councils need to be doing more. It doesn’t cost much, and it makes such a big difference.”
A Place That Empowers
Rylands of Kew provides the perfect environment for residents like Vivienne to thrive. With its supportive community, excellent facilities, and focus on fostering connections, Rylands enables its residents to live life to the fullest.
As Vivienne beautifully sums up, “Living here has given me the space to continue doing what I love. Volunteering is so important – it’s good for everyone, both those who give and those who receive.”
Vivienne’s story is not just a celebration of her incredible life but also a reminder of the vibrant and purposeful lives that residents at Rylands of Kew lead. Her journey is proof that retirement living is not the end of the story – it’s the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.
“I’ve had an incredible life. I’ve been very lucky. But now, looking forward, I’m focused on what’s next.”
Accelerate Action
The International Women’s Day 2025, campaign theme is ‘Accelerate Action’ which is a worldwide call to acknowledge strategies, resources, and activity that positively impact women’s advancement, and to support and elevate their implementation. Significant barriers to gender equality remain, yet with the right action and support, positive progress can be made for women everywhere.
Vivienne’s unwavering dedication to volunteering and advocacy not only embodies the essence of this year’s call to expedite progress through gender equality but also serves as an inspiring reminder that through unwavering commitment and heartfelt effort, we can collectively forge a more equitable world for all.