The timing of establishing a new business was far from perfect as we were all still living in a COVID19, it was brave to consider starting a new business, but the rollercoaster ride since for Ultrasound Hawke’s Bay remains rewarding.
When Jody and Rohana Dawson featured in the March 2021 issue of The Profit, they were in the throes of setting up an independent medical diagnostic business in Havelock North.
The couple had rekindled their teenage relationship, reconnecting via social media with Jody subsequently moving home to New Zealand. The couple also decided to ‘elope’ in 2021 marrying at a local Havelock North lodge with only the celebrant and witnesses. It was truly magical after nearly three decades apart.
Jody with over 20 years’ experience as a sonographer, along with Rohana’s administration management background and passion for customer service, had a vision to create a boutique ultrasound clinic that would raise the bar in service and expertise as well as provide faster access to scans and any subsequent medical treatment.
“We’re proud of what we have achieved, despite many setbacks along the way as new business owners. We’ve gone through two COVID19 lockdowns and then Cyclone Gabrielle, but have remained true to wanting to provide a personalised and independent clinic. Since opening in March 2021, Jody has done well over 6000 scans and the couple are now celebrating the recruitment of a new sonographer Jana Furlan, which will enable the couple to have more than a long weekend break.
“It’s been really hectic and this is much to do with the service that we offer. Jody has so much experience and has a fantastic nature with his patients and being a small nimble clinic, we tend to say ‘yes’. “Word about our service has spread, and our customer base has grown, yet we struggled to find an additional sonographer to help, they truly are a rarity!
“But finally, we are fortunate to have found a new sonographer in Jana and like us, she has a similar personality and humour and is also from Gisborne. “Jana is awesome and has not only taken the pressure off Jody, but has also enabled us to have a good break away,” Rohana says.
First published by The Profit. Click here to read the full article.