“We’ve got your back, Nic.” When the power of radio comes to the fore

When Nic O’Riley joined Lisa ‘Milly’ Millard as the new Breakfast co-host on Geelong’s bay 93.9 last month, they made promise that they’d always be real with each other.

We often talk about the power of radio, but the truth of that power really hit home to me last night.

Whilst scrolling on social media, I came across a post from Craig Meddings, a fellow announcer at the station. It read:

 “People often ask what my workmates are really like. Answer: beautiful, kind souls, zero ego, talented, genuinely lovely, real people.”

Underneath this was an Instagram post of what had unfolded on the Breakfast show that morning.

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Nic became emotional as he shared his journey as a carer for his mum, who was diagnosed with dementia year ago.

“I’m living with her full time. I’m pretty much her full time carer,” Nic explained. “I come in here and we have a lot of fun, and then I go back and look after Mum.”

Nick says his mum’s condition seemed to deteriorate during a trip away on the weekend, and she had two falls.

Then, one morning this week, as he got ready to head into the studio, Nic heard a crash and bang. His mum had fallen over again.

“So she’s had three falls in three days and I found her, you know, face down in her bedroom.”

Nic called an ambulance. He told listeners how hard it was, watching his mum go downhill.

Milly assured him he’s not alone.

“You know I love ya like a brother. It’s not easy doing that stuff. I say that from experience. I had to stay with my dad in ICU for ten days before he passed away, and it’s very confronting. Different kettle of fish for you, but well done for yesterday.”

The conversation prompted a huge and supportive outpouring on social media.

“In the midst of life’s challenges, remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to support, listen, and uplift. Stay strong Nic, we’ve got your back!

 “You’re a good egg Nic. It’s a bloody tough road but you are doing an incredible job.”

 “Never feel alone, there’s many of us out there caring for ageing/ailing parents (got 2 at home with me right now)….here if you need. Thank gawd for Mills too.”

For me, it was one of the more beautiful moments in radio, and a timely reminder that – away from the studio – often we just never know what someone else is dealing with.