Prior to her retirement at the end of 1990, Sister Joan was a Secondary School teacher.

After her arrival in Thailand in February 1991, Sister Joan spent 8 months in language training and, at the beginning of 1992, began to walk the slum areas of Bangkok.

Since that time, Sister Joan has worked in the slum area of Klong Toei, Bangkok. Through the establishment of specific projects, Sister Joan is a constant support for many families in this area.