“I Moved Countries – Then Found I Needed a Heart and Kidney Transplant” – Shana Shares her Story on Moving Countries 101

From Common Cultures to Profound Partnerships:  Moving Countries 101

In the latest episode of Moving Countries 101, host Clare Kay welcomes an inspiring guest, Shana Pereira, who shares a deeply personal and reflective journey, from her family’s history shaped by political unrest to her own experiences with unexpected health challenges and career pivots.

Shana’s story offers a unique perspective on the profound impact of moving countries. She also opens up about the ‘plot twists’ that highlight how the decisions we make around people, place, and purpose can reshape who we are.

Born in Darwin, Australia, to parents who were refugees from East Timor, Shana’s early life was shaped by the forces of displacement, instilling in her a deep understanding of the intersection between geography, identity, and resilience. Her journey through cultural adaptation and her ability to remain adaptable helped her embrace opportunities she never anticipated, including a job proposition that took her from Darwin to Los Angeles, and later another job offer that led to her move to San Diego.

Shana’s personal narrative takes us through her planned return to Los Angeles, a relocation she had eagerly anticipated, only to be disrupted by the global lockdown.

“I had two going away parties in February of 2020… I signed a lease for LA, and a week before moving, we were on lockdown,” she recalls. That twist of fate kept her in San Diego for nearly 18 months, during which time she navigated significant health challenges, culminating in a heart and kidney transplant that made staying in the quieter city both necessary and healing.

Now, as she prepares to return to LA, Shana reflects on the personal growth that comes with being adaptable in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

“I’m moving with the commitment to get to know the city newly, now, with who I am now,” she shares, highlighting her renewed sense of adventure.

Through her journey, Shana touches on the universal theme of how being in a country that isn’t your own—whether temporarily or long-term—shapes not only your external world but also your inner world.

Her attitude and approach underscore the unpredictability of life, particularly for those who find themselves in a country not their own during major life events—whether it be political unrest, family upheaval, or health crises. These shifts don’t just change where we live; they transform who we are and how we see the world.

This episode provides a deeply personal look at the emotional and practical challenges of living through transitions. Shana’s story reminds us that, with resilience and adaptability, even the most unexpected circumstances can lead to growth and new beginnings, as she now embarks on a mission to give back in honour of her donors and her doctors.

About Moving Countries 101 Podcast:

Moving Countries 101 is a podcast that dives into the deeply personal stories of people who have crossed borders—whether for career, family, or forced circumstances. Hosted by Clare Kay, whose own global travel adds a unique perspective, each episode offers listeners a raw look at the challenges and growth that come with relocation, providing valuable insights into both the practical and emotional aspects of moving abroad.

Tune in to Moving Countries 101 for real stories, unique observations, and expert insights on navigating international moves and global travel.

Podcast Links:

You can listen/watch and follow this week’s podcast here:

Apple

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-countries-101/id1724940782

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/4cxcZ9rbrvZ6A0B6UPMaXj

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo75XfTWDQl6JgTn4pzlvnA