Meet So Tran, affectionately known as ‘Uncle So’ and ‘Pappa So’ by those around him.
A Technical Officer, Uncle So is one of our frontline pathology collectors.
40 years of blood collection experience
With the nickname, “the man with the golden hands”, Uncle So’s skills are clearly top-notch.
He works across several of our Western Sydney public hospital sites at Westmead, Blacktown, Auburn and Mount Druitt.
Always keen to help people, Uncle So decided to train as a Registered Nurse but switched to blood collection, where he would meet different people every day and be part of their care team. He completed his studies and got his first job with us at Belmont Hospital. Later, he completed his Pathology Collection Certificate III while working with our team at Westmead.
With 40 years of experience on his side, his technical skills are second to none. There’s not much he’s not seen or dealt with before.
What it takes to be a good pathology collector
“To be a good collector, you need to be confident in yourself and your abilities. That’s how you reassure patients and families they’re in good hands. Plus, people think I’m funny, so I tell jokes to help relax those who might be anxious or worried.”
When asked what he loves about his job, Uncle So says, “I love my job, the patients and my team. I like people, I like helping them and I’m good with blood.”
Uncle So says one of the most satisfying parts of his role is: “When I see patients who are very upset or angry and I can calm them down. I believe happiness rubs off on others and I’m always in good spirits and positive. Sometimes all they need is someone to talk to and explain what’s happening.”
Everyone knows Uncle So. His easy-going and friendly personality makes people smile and puts everyone at ease.
Variety gives job satisfaction
“The variety keeps me going,” he says, “I work across a few hospitals and visit different wards, adults, kids plus the outpatient departments.”
Paediatric collections, especially babies, can be tricky but Uncle So thinks differently. “Babies aren’t difficult if you have good technique. Usually, if the parents stay nearby the baby doesn’t cry. But if they leave and move away the baby cries. I make sure I’m gentle and calm. When they see it’s all over, I see the parents smile and take a big breath.” Uncle So has found his happy place at work.
Everyone’s journey is unique
Born in Vietnam, Uncle So practised Buddhism and lived as a Monk at Temple for many years. Leaving when the war began, he spent time in a refugee camp in Malaysia before arriving in Sydney to start his new life at age 19.
At 32, he found his life partner, a Vietnamese Nun, now his wife. They married and settled down to start a family.
Outside of work, he’s active and likes to run. He’s held onto much of his Buddhist teaching and regularly practices Tai Chi and meditation. “It keeps me young.” Uncle So’s “tea group” is his time to chat about anything and everything over cups of steaming tea. “It’s my time to socialise, share and listen,” he says.
A humble, kind man, he’s also active in his neighbourhood. A local community leader, Uncle So gives his time and wisdom to younger generations as a mentor, encouraging them to live good, healthy and happy lives.
Now at 62 Uncle So has no plans to slow down anytime soon and recommends his career to others.
Find out more about Australia’s largest public pathology service.
