Meet the Trailblazing Women Redefining Success

1. What is the most rewarding part of your role at St. Joseph’s? 

Working in the operating room (OR), we see patients at one point in their health care journey, but it’s a time of instant gratification because having their surgery is a time of relief for them. This is especially true for our breast care patients. These patients often have many fears and a rewarding part of my role is to provide them extra attention to help them feel confident in our care. While I sometimes don’t see the outcome for patients in the long-term, knowing I’ve made a positive difference in their care is very meaningful.

2. Why did you choose a career in health care? 

My passion for caring for others started as a teenager and while I had always thought of becoming a nurse, I was worried I wasn’t smart enough. I started working in health care as a  phlebotomist at Canadian Blood Services and then a personal support worker and knew health care is what I was meant to do. At 34, I went back to university to upgrade my skills and graduated as a nurse at 40. That was 10 years ago and I’ve found my purpose in nursing and caring for others.

3. Why do you choose to work at St. Joseph’s? 

I’ve had roles at other organizations, but St. Joseph’s culture is the most aligned with my values. Everyone I’ve met at St. Joseph’s cares for patients with compassion and respect. I’ve always believed in treating others the way I want to be treated.

4. How can we promote inclusivity for women in the workplace?  

We can build a sisterhood. The women I work with in the OR have worked hard to get there and we need to encourage, support and advocate for each other. It’s especially important for us to encourage female residents and nursing students to help them build their confidence.

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