'Rotate your balls': Dr Michela Sorensen shares excellent advice on The House of Wellness

Dr Michela Sorensen has a simple theory on juggling a GP practice, a young family, and a growing television career.

“Outsource everything you can, and rotate the balls in the air that you're juggling, often. That way, people don’t notice which one you drop,” she laughingly told Mediaweek.

The good doctor also advises other mums to rely on the team around them, and accept all the help they can get.

Sorensen is the new resident doctor on season four of Seven’s The House of Wellness, which launched with a new host line up in September. 

She sits alongside hosts Mel Doyle, Shane Crawford and comedian Sam Taunton.

 

 

 

 

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From Debate Club to breakfast TV

Before The House of Wellness, Sorensen was a regular health expert on both Sunrise and The Morning Show. 

“I can talk under water,” she told Mediaweek. 

“I was the weird kid at school who loved debate and public speaking. I love talking, and to help people.”

“Taming the Boys" on The House of Wellness

Sorensen is clear about her role on the panel.

“I'm the resident doctor on the show," she says.

"But I also sometimes tame the two boys who like to be a bit chaotic.

 “Mel and I are like the big sisters.”

The show covers most things medical, from heart health, allergies, and preventative health. Sorensen says it's important to keep her advice practical, with no jargon.

“I think of it in terms of ‘What can you do to help yourself’?” she said.

 

 

 

 

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Going public on her rare cancer

In the season’s third episode, Sorensen speaks candidly about her own cancer experience. She was diagnosed with a rare oral cancer at 34, when her children were a toddler, and an eight-week-old baby.

“My cancer was rare, but I got lots of messages from those who also had young kids when they were diagnosed,” she said, adding, “I think people could really relate.”

The doctor is wary of the label that often follows.

“I don’t like being called a ‘cancer survivor’. There’s so much more to me. But also, it’s really hard on everyone else, too.”

Sorensen's experience forced a major life rethink.

“After cancer, I re-evaluated my life priorities. I love what I do, but now more than ever, I focus on what works for my family,” she said, a decision that included relocating work to be closer to home.

The House of Wellness airs Tuesdays at 9:30 pm on Seven and 7plus.