Q&A with Cecilia Millare

What brought you here (Brisbane Wellbeing)?

Like most young kids who played with a toy stethoscope and a reflex hammer, I also dreamt of becoming a doctor. This dream grew even stronger when I lost a close family member at 14.  It was unbearable to see my loved ones feeling helpless and hopeless. There were so many questions running through my head that time. I knew death but I did not understand grief. I wanted to know and I wanted to help. Time has passed and more curveballs were thrown, but my questions remained unanswered.  I am here because I understand what it feels like to be in a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions without hope in sight.

What’s your favourite book?

The Little Prince. It also happens to be the first book that I have ever finished cover to cover – well, I kind of had to because it was for a school book report. Safe to say, I instantly fell in love and it sparked my enthusiasm for reading! I would rather not say much about it as it is better experienced by diving into its pages and relishing every lesson it offers. Though if I could sneak in just one, it would be this: “care for the things you have, for they cannot be replaced.”

Who, what, or was your biggest teacher?

“What.” It would have to be my decision to study overseas (from the Philippines) and move away from everything that I was used to and familiar with. It was the biggest self-discovery journey I never knew I needed. It was my biggest teacher when it came to family, friendship, career, love, and myself. I had to build a home away from home. I learned the hardest lessons through the hardest ways, but I honestly wouldn’t have it any other way. ¨

Where is your happy place? Home! Well, to be specific, it would be lounging at home, horror flicks on TV, and a hot chocolate in hand! With family and friends of course!