Meet the mother-daughter duo committed to caring for others

St John WA mother and daughter, Kirsten Janke and Jana Biddle, are united by more than just family – they share a deep dedication to caring for others. 

Jana is a paramedic intern and is one year away from hitting the road as a paramedic while Kirsten volunteers with St John WA’s Community Transport Service.  

Jana began her journey to become a paramedic after being involved in a horrific road traffic accident at just 18 years of age. 

The accident left her needing around-the-clock care and struggling with ongoing chronic pain.  

Kirsten cared for Jana for years after the life-changing incident – but this was nothing out of the ordinary for the busy mum of two. 

“Even when she was studying for her social work degree and working, she was still looking after her parents and looking after me,” said Jana. 

“And then I had my car accident, and she just kept going.” 

These days they don’t get to see as much of each other, especially with Jana’s busy training schedule.  

So, running into each other at St John WA’s Coolamon Centre when they are both working is always a novelty.  

“When we are both at Belmont, we’ll catch a glimpse of each other and say hello and give each other a hug,” said Kirsten. 

Volunteering with St John WA’s Community Transport Service is a natural fit for Kirsten, which she partly owes to her German heritage and growing up bilingual in Australia. 

“I really enjoy volunteering at St John WA.  

“I meet people from all walks of life and, especially being bilingual, it’s lovely to talk to people from different cultural backgrounds,” said Kirsten. 

And it was Jana who encouraged her to take the plunge into volunteering in community transport in the first place. 

“She is a smart cookie and very, very good with people.  

“She’s just naturally a caring person,” said Jana. 

Kirsten’s warm, down-to-earth nature has been passed on to Jana too – ideal for an aspiring paramedic. 

“Jana is so in tune with other people and can pick up on the smallest detail.  

“Coming from an entertainment background she also makes people feel really comfortable and can talk to anyone,” Kirsten said. 

Neither of their roles are easy though and they both credit the tireless support and guidance of their colleagues for helping them along the way.  

“There’s so much to learn, and I’m learning every day,” said Jana. 

“Everyone looks after each other here – the vollies and the paramedics.”  

And Kirsten and Jana are always only a phone call away if either of them need a comforting chat after a tough day. 

“We support each other in all aspects of life,” said Kirsten. 

“I’ve learnt so much from Jana and, as I get older, I hope to continue to share my wisdom with her.” 

“And if talking isn’t working we’ll just go shopping together and buy the same shoes and bags!” said Jana.  

Outside of work, Kirsten and Jana pair up to do horse riding, ballet and fun runs – they even started training for a triathlon together. 

It is clear their love and close bond will keep them motivated and supported at every stage of their lives.  

“We have the best relationship,” said Kirsten. 

“I’m so proud of my daughter – I really am.”  

Inspired by Kirsten and Jana? Find a role to suit you at St John WA today.