Nurses often find their skills needed outside of the workplace. Alyssa’s experience prepared her for the day her grandfather needed urgent, life-saving care. She accompanied him to the hospital, stayed with him in the ER and up to the ICU. Later, as his condition was complicated further, she remained by his side, always advocating for his comfort and care during his final days. It is this same level of care and compassion that she brings to the residents at Maitland Manor.

Laura’s nominators have described her as an exceptional and kind nurse. In Labour and Delivery, she is often on hand for the hardest and the most joyous moments in a patient’s life. Every patient has their own individual needs, which Laura never hesitates to look after – including, for one of her nominators, delivering the baby herself!

Jessica was nominated by a co-worker, who tells us “this wonderful and passionate nurse frequently goes above and beyond for her patients. She speaks out and advocates to ensure their needs are met making a visible positive impact on their psychosocial wellbeing. She embodies fully the role as a nurse as medical professional, patient advocate, with such a caring heart. She is a nurse all of us should strive to be and deserve recognition.”

Stephanie is proud to oversee her own roster of patients as a nurse practitioner. One of those patients, her nominator, tells us that she was an integral part of helping them get sober, and staying that way over the past three years. Every time they need something, they know she is only a phone call away to provide whatever help or medical care is needed, and always goes above and beyond for her patients.

Connie’s nominator writes: During my stay on labour and delivery, all the nurses were absolutely amazing. Connie was not only an amazing nurse but a strong support system, going above and beyond her call of duty and providing much needed physical and emotional support. I could go on and on about all of the extra things she did for me and my family. Thank you, Connie – We feel so blessed to have had you as a nurse.

Landa works in the birthing centre and OR at the Walkerton Hospital. Her nominator tells us that her love for her patients and her profession show each and everyday. Growing up, she never wanted to be anything but a nurse, following her grandpa on his rounds at the Chesley Hospital when she was a young girl. She treats everyone with respect and is always professional and will do whatever it takes to make your healthcare experience a positive one.

Barb’s nominee wanted to recognize her for having just retired from a 47-year distinguished career in nursing, which began at Toronto General Hospital and included time at Sick Kids working in the ICU. More recently, she’s been a fixture in the emergency room at Saugeen Memorial Hospital in Southampton, and as a team lead for nearly the last 10 years. Through it all, she never stopped enjoying being a nurse and thinks every nurse deserves this award.

Kristen has dedicated her entire adult life to nursing – and then some! She started working at the Creemore Nursing Home when she was just a young girl, riding her bike to and from the home after school to help as a nurse’s aide when she was only eleven years old. She continued to work at the home right through nursing school, and has now spent over 35 years supporting seniors in Creemore.

Deb has been nominated multiple times for the Caring Nurse Award. Her work in labour and delivery means that she is there for both the beautiful and challenging moments of childbirth. She feels fortunate to be part of something so beautiful, and to see the miracle of life occur every day. Often staying long after her shift is over, or coming in on her days off to see her patients, Deb truly makes a difference in the lives of her patients.

Her nominator writes: “Robin was my nurse after my emergency c-section, where my baby was eight weeks early. She helped me feel comfortable and supported, and brought a lot of laughter in a difficult time.” Robin is one of the most-nominated nurses in the history of Bayshore’s Caring Nurse Awards. An RPN of 24 plus years, she says she continues to be blessed in the career she loves, providing care and compassion to all who come through her door.

Juggling family, work, and education is a common story in nursing. We hear many stories of nurses working on furthering their nursing education while maintaining their day-to-day practise. Kelsey’s nominator writes: “Kelsey was an amazing young woman; very caring and attentive. During my stay, she went over and above in every aspect. On top of that, she spoke about being a mom to her young daughter, and wanting to go back to school to further her career and become a Nurse Practitioner.”

Laurie works in the ER at RVH and has been working very hard through the pandemic. Her nominator, a friend, tells us that she has always been a loving and caring person, and has carried on that approach while dealing with all-things pandemic-related – including administering the dreaded COVID tests! She always puts her full effort into her work, and she can always be counted on to answer any questions that a patient, a family member, or friend may have.

Nurses often help connect patients with specialized care. Christen’s nominator tell us that he was battling breathing issues and went to the E-R. With tears in his eyes, Christen went above and beyond to make sure he got the treatment he deserved and needed. She helped to connect him with a specialist who he is now seeing for the issue. He says: “Christen is so caring and understanding. The world needs more people like her.”

Nurses are often there for us in our hardest moments. Courtney’s nominator tells us that his wife was in ICU. On the day she passed, Courtney was there by her side, caring for her and providing support for her family. Her nominator says: “the care, compassion and professionalism in dealing with my wife and I was exemplary. I couldn’t have gotten through that day without that support.”

Nicole’s nominator writes: “my husband had a knee replacement. After the surgery, he was so impressed with the care Nicole gave him. He was extremely sick and she was there first hand and all through his first night, taking care of him and making sure he was as comfortable as possible. She looked after many patients that night but made the time each of them and checked in all night. She is an outstanding Nurse!”

Brittany is now a multiple-winner of the Caring Nurse Award! She was nominated this year anonymously by a patient at the clinic for the amazing help she has provided in treating this person and their illness. They tell us that through everything, Brittany made sure that their health was important to her and that they were cared about. Brittany’s been working in addiction treatment for more than 10 years and still loves her work every day.

Lisa works in dialysis at the hospital but previously worked in obstetrics for many years. Transitioning to a whole new area of nursing can be difficult, but she has really made a lasting impression on patients and coworkers. In addition to her work in the hospital setting, Lisa has also worked in the community by giving countless vaccines for Huron Perth Public Health. Covid shots, school vaccines, you name it – she’s given it!

Lindsay’s nominator writes: Lindsay was my husband’s nurse when he was a patient in the Owen Sound Hospital. I wasn’t able to be at the hospital with him because of COVID restrictions, so she took the time to speak with me on the phone and give me updates on his condition. Lindsay was an amazing, caring, compassionate nurse that went above and beyond her duties.

Mary Ellen is very well known in the Walkerton community for being a long-time RN in the Walkerton ER and OR. Her nominator describes her amazing bedside manner, and says she makes you feel human and cared for. She’s always offering warm blankets! Born and raised in Walkerton, nursing for 33 years, Mary Ellen’s mom was a nurse and she grew up never wanting to do anything else.

Sarah’s multiple nominators tell us that she personifies the definition of a caring nurse. She’s had an incredible journey in nursing, starting as a PSW, then later becoming an RPN. She worked in hospitals through SARS and now COVID-19, in geriatrics and in the ER, as well as working in nursing homes, and retirement homes. Everyone who works with her seems to say the same thing: what a joy it is to work with her!

Angela spent the early part of her career working in the ICU, before becoming a Nurse Practitioner. She recently returned to the ICU to help with the surge of COVID patients on life support. She continues to work with her own roster of patients too – her nominator thanks her for support after the sudden loss of a family members early in the pandemic, and sharing her knowledge, caring and support.

Jessica has been nursing for 12 years and has been a nurse practioner for the last 6. She always had an interest in the sciences and towards helping people, especially disenfranchised groups. As an NP, she loves working with her own roster of patients. Her nominator tells us that she is always caring and understanding, a true credit to the nursing profession.

Her nominator, a former student, tells us: “Lisa was a caring and wonderful preceptor when I was doing my clinical placement. She has a heart of gold and passion for her job and patients, all while helping us new to the healthcare field gain the experience and confidence we needed.” Thank you Lisa, for your work on the front lines of healthcare and for helping to teach the healthcare heroes of tomorrow!

Pamela has had her hands full in the emergency room during the height of the pandemic. Her nominator tells us: “one of my daughters contracted COVID-19, and found herself scared and unsure of what to do. Pam was there for her and got us the answers we needed, when no one else could. Pam is the most kind, compassionate individual I have ever had the privilege to know – and she’s inspired all three of my daughters to go into nursing!”

Allison handily manages everything from her own day-to-day clinic appointments, preventative care, medication questions, and assisting the Physicians with surgical support. Over the past year, she has been a lifeline by telephone to so many patients who were at home due to COVID restrictions. The Bruce Peninsula would be lost without her! Her calm, easy to talk to disposition puts patients at ease.

Her nominator writes: “Carrie has been looking after my husband, for several years now, and she has never failed to be a ray of sunshine in our home through her infectious smile and her caring and loving attention to her patients. I consider her not only a nurse, but also our friend. She jokes with us, sometimes cries with us, shows care for us, and she especially shows love and compassion for us.

Sonya is a nurse who works with moms and newborns at the Owen Sound Hospital. Her nominator writes, “After I had my baby, Sonya was so attentive and took her time whenever she came to us. Giving birth during a pandemic was scary enough, but having someone like her to help us, made us feel calm. After a night with zero sleep, she even took our little one with her while she did her computer work, so we could catch a little shut eye. Thank you for making us feel special during such a hectic time.”

Elissa’s nominator is also a veteran nurse, and says “it was very difficult for me to start over into a new specialty, but Elissa has been an angel to me with her gentle, calm, patient, team focused support. Her love for the unit and patients is so very inclusive – it feels like going home to family when you go in to work with her there. She consistently and constantly goes well above and beyond her duties, and she inspires me to be the best I can be each and every day.”

A former student writes: “Christine was my preceptor in my final semester of nursing school. I saw her interact and care selflessly for patients each shift. She was always the first nurse to get up to answer a call bell and the last nurse to go for breaks. She taught me that nursing is so much more than just clinical skills; it’s also building relationships with and educating patients. Christine puts 110% into her work and I would not be the nurse I am today without her guidance; she is an amazing mentor.”

Her nominator writes: “My family and I will never be able to thank Carly enough for the care she provided my grandfather. Near the end, she went above and beyond for him in order to make him comfortable. She was kind, caring and compassionate. At one point, Carly came into my grandfathers’ room to wash him up. When my family and I returned, Carly had cleaned him up, combed his hair and had brought a CD player into the room so that he could listen to his jazz music. She offered not only comfort to my grandfather, but also to my family.”

Julie has a very diversified nursing practice, working in acute care, physician’s office – counseling diabetics, and teaching and supervising RPN Nursing Students in their clinical placements. Her nominator tells us that Julie demonstrates a passion for nursing, using her practical and critical thinking skills to provide excellent patient care. She listens to her patients and puts forth a plan of care to achieve the best patient outcomes possible. She is kind and caring, but also has the ability to motivate her patients to meet their treatment goals.

Her nominator writes: “Sierra was always willing to listen to me when I was having a bad day. One night, Sierra sat with me in the emergency department after an accident for 6 hours, and helped keep my mind off the incident. When we got into a room in emerge, Sierra held my hand through the whole procedure and assured me everything was going to be okay. Later, in my inpatient room, she stayed with me to make sure I was okay, and tucked me back in before bed.”

Her nominator, a new mother, writes: “Deb was an amazing nurse while I was in the delivery room. She took such good care of me and my newborn daughter. There were many babies born that weekend, and the staff were stretched thin, but Debbie was still able to provide me with great care. She went above and beyond to make sure I was as comfortable as I could be. We were even sad when her shift ended. Thank you, Deb, for your incredible care!”

Her nominator writes: “Robin was taking care of my son and I, after my Cesarean Section. She is amazing and managed to make our time spent at the hospital stress-free, and even enjoyable! I have had 3 previous sections at a different hospital and there is no comparison to the kind of care we received from Robin. She, and her colleagues, were kind, compassionate and true professionals. My husband and I are forever grateful, and only have positive memories regarding our son’s birth.”

A family member of Natasha writes: “She always puts others health and well-being before her own. She has often come to the need of family and friends, not only at work, but outside as well, accompanying a loved one to doctor’s appointment or hospital before or after a long shift. She is never off duty. Congratulations Natasha, you’ve worked hard these last 18 years for this and definitely earned our respect for all you do and the love you have taking care of others.”

Her nominator, one of her co-workers, writes: “Julie is one of the most amazing nurses at the Shelburne Centre for Health. She is always willing to go above and beyond for all of her patients. She has a strong work ethic, and deserves this award more than anyone I know. She is friendly and has a great attitude and outlook on all aspects of her job. She enjoys her job, and brings a smile to work every day! We count on her expertise and knowledge daily.

A former patient and new mom tells us that after a homebirth required a transfer to the Walkerton Hospital, Kaitlyn made her feel comfortable and safe throughout what would otherwise have been a scary situation. Her nominator writes: “Kate was kind, compassionate, and treated me with dignity and respect at my weakest moments. It would have been a very different experience without her cheery, easy-going nature!” Thank you, Kaitlyn, for everything that you do!

Last year at the Canadian Softball Championship games in Owen Sound, Umpire Jamie McLoy took a foul-tip to his forehead and was knocked unconscious. Fortunately, Barb was in the crowd and immediately came to offer her help to Jamie. She got him to a quiet area and stayed with him until the ambulance arrived. Barb was able to tell the paramedics exactly what had happened, her observations, and what she had done to assist him. She stayed with him until he was taken away. He was released that night, and back umpiring the next day!

A former colleague writes: “Amorie was my preceptor at Chapman House Hospice. Her level of professionalism and caring was truly above and beyond. She is an excellent role model, and a credit to the nursing profession! Her empathy to her patients and their families was amazing. She fully encompassed a holistic approach to not only treating and supporting her patients, but their families as well. I am newly registered, and aspire to be a great nurse just like her!”

Amy’s nominator says that she seemed destined to become a nurse, having watched her start out as a personal support aid, where she showed great compassion for the elderly residents she worked with. That experience led her to decide to become a nurse, and head off to school to become an RPN. After graduating, she returned to Central Place with even more compassion for the residents, their families, and the staff members of Central Place Retirement Home. Thank you, Amy, for all that you do!

Lori was nominated by her neighbor, who knows her well, and writes: “Lori is absolutely great at her job! She is extremely dedicated to patient health, and well-liked by all of her patients.” Lori truly embodies what it means to be a nurse – caring, compassion, and a never-ending commitment to her patients, and their families. Thank you, Lori!

Her nominator writes: “Adriana has been my son’s nurse on many hospitalizations, and her attitude, approach, energy, and attentiveness has never changed from the very first time. She is excellent and swift in her assessments and treatments. She not only cares for the patients but the family members as well. She even came to my son’s bedside one night and covered me, his mom, with a warmed flannelette sheet as I slept. She has offered to get me a coffee when she knows I need one! Thank you, Adriana, for being the nurse that you are!”

According to Sherry’s nominator she kept her organized but most importantly has a wonderful sense of humour and often joked with me. When I had problems she would talk through them with me which made me feel better and get along better with others.

Caring Nurse Award 2018 Winners Kate McArthur and Krista Fry with their colleagues

Krista’s nominator describes her as “so caring, helpful, humorous, understanding, professional and all around awesome that she made my hospital stay pleasurable!”

Richard’s nominator writes, “I was privileged to have a wonderful nurse assist Dr. McCall during my procedure. His humour and calmness really helped me to relax in the OR!”

Jackie’s nominator writes, “I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma and was just about to start a round of tests when I became very sick with hypercalcemia. To keep to my chemo schedule my oncologist decided to run his tests while I was recovering in hospital. I don’t know how I would have gotten through that week without Jackie as my nurse. One of the tests required a sample of bone marrow and she held my hand trying to relax me. Truth be known, I almost squeezed her hand off. When she came to help me with my lunch, I apologized. She just laughed. We laughed and cried together. What a delight to have someone at your side who is so caring and kind. I could not have made it through those tests and sick days without Jackie… I am forever grateful to you.”

Alexis’ nominator simply states: “Awesome nurse who supported me mentally the entire ride to my new facility. Never met a nicer nurse EVER!”

Caring Nurse Award 2018 Winners Kate McArthur (L) and Krista Fry

Kate’s nominator says, “She has a spirit that lifts and touches everyone she meets. She goes far above and beyond to make sure she gives her patients quality care and makes them feel like they are her only patient! This woman is such an incredible human being. If you spent even a minute with her you would agree what an amazing nurse she truly is!”

Amie’s nominator says, “She is a nurse in the cancer clinic. Your emotions are always in play during visits to an oncologist. Whether it’s fear of the unknown on your first visit, your first chemo, or waiting for test results, it’s never easy. But Amie is the same for every appointment, always glad to see you, always empathetic, always encouraging! She made us feel like we were part of a team effort to beat this thing and that we could count on all members of the team. She made our trips to the cancer clinic positive and upbeat.”

Ruth’s nominator writes that his stay in the Owen Sound Regional Hospital was made much easier and more comfortable by Ruth. “I was impressed by all the things she would do to make sure I was as comfortable and as free of pain as possible. She is a perfect blend of a professional nurse and an extremely caring person!”

Mary Ann received two separate nominations. She works in the Oncology Department and is described as patient, kind, very knowledgeable, detail oriented and an obvious team player. One nominator wrote, “She takes the time to explain procedures, their purpose and possible side effects, all the while having a smile for her patients.” Another writes, “You are treated like royalty at our cancer clinic and Mary Ann sets the tone by making every patient feel they have their own special place at court!”

According to Susan’s nominator she has been providing care for patients in the town of Meaford for over 40 years having worked for different doctors. “Words can’t describe how kind, caring, supportive and professional she is! She always goes above and beyond to help patients and their families.”

According to her nominator, Montana’s care and compassion for the elderly is out of this world! “She is in this career to take the best care of everyone she touches and eventually to open her own care facility!”

Laura’s nominator writes: “We stayed in the family room during my nephew’s last days and we will always be thankful to Laura. She brought us hot cooked meals and supplies. Her knowledge as a nurse brought answers to our questions and concerns. Her kind, positive words helped us to be strong. Laura went for a career, at the same time raising her family. Despite huge obstacles and challenges she achieved her goal. Her big heart is full of compassion for her family. Meegwetch to you Laura Stephens!”

Lorri’s nominator writes that following a knee replacement operation there was a problem the first time his wife changed the dressing. She phoned Lorri but she was away for the day. Lorri’s husband then called on her cell phone and she in turn got right back to her patient with instructions not to take off the dressing. Lorri called in on her way home and took care of the problem.

Darlene is a Diagnostic Imaging nurse who was nominated by a co-worker who wrote, “She only sees patients for a short time while they are having their procedure. Due to sedation, a lot of them may not even remember her. She has a million and one jobs to do during any procedure yet she goes out of her way to get every patient a warm blanket, to listen to their concerns and put them at ease. She takes the time to educate the patient and their family. She has the biggest heart and cares for all her patients like this.”

Nicole was nominated by an appreciative family that wrote: “Nicole was one of many great nurses who cared for our son in leu for almost a year and one who will be in our hearts forever. She accompanied our son on a home visit not only providing nursing care but friendship and support to our family. She was by our side during the most difficult time.”

According to Kate’s nominator, “Attending my wife at home, she is the most caring and understanding nurse who has ever provided for my wife’s health requirements.  He adds, “We have had others, but none matched her professionalism.”

Her nominator writes, “She was our at home nurse when my 2-year-old came home from his liver transplant. She administered his lV antibiotics via his pic line. She was comforting to our other son, playing with both boys to give me a break. Even when she wasn’t on duty she answered questions by phone and text any time of day.  She taught me how to work the machines and made sure I

was 100 percent comfortable using them.  A real friend who helped us through a very difficult time  for our family. We’re so grateful to have met her.”

According to Kim’s nominator she is one of the best nurses in this field of work. “She always puts her patients’ needs before anything, doing more than is required and staying past the end of shifts, all while balancing work

and personal life better than anyone I know.”

Melissa is a very bright, intuitive RPN who has proven to be a strong advocate for the residents she cares for. She excels with any follow up or outstanding issues. Recently, she was instrumental in saving a resident’s life due to her keen observational skills.  Her nominator writes, “Melissa deserves to be recognized for her outstanding achievement.  When anyone is upset, she will spend quality time to ensure they are okay. I’ve never seen anyone with as big a heart as Melissa.”

Adelle was nominated by a patient of more than 55 years!  He writes, “l first met Mrs. Armstrong as a nurse when I was 5 years old. I spent several weeks in the old General and Marine Hospital with a broken leg. I never forgot how she made a special effort to make me feel better when

visiting hours were over. Whenever I saw her as I grew up she always spoke to me.  Once when I was in my thirties, I was at outpatients, and while waiting she came over to speak. When I met the doctor, there she was again.  I said, “l didn’t know you worked in Emergency.”  She replied that she was just there to make sure I was looked after!  I’ve heard from others what a caring person she is.  The Owen Sound hospital is very fortunate to have a nurse like her.

Her nominator writes, “My daughter was born sleeping and

I was taken care of by Jocelyn during the night. She tended to my every need with compassion and understanding. Jocelyn made me a beautiful memorial to remember my little girl – a completely selfless act that I will

cherish for the rest of my life.  Thank you so much Jocelyn for being strong and compassionate towards my husband and me during our time of need. lt is people like you who really make a difference.”

For medical reasons, Maureen’s nominator had to deliver her daughter at 34 weeks gestation and stayed in a parent room for 12 nights. At home were 3 boys aged 4, 2 and a half, and 13 months. She writes, “Maureen helped me hold my daughter for the first time and taught me how to care for her.  It helped me feel more connected to her. She built me up when I felt like a bad mom for leaving my sons for so long. ‘Mo’ explained everything in detail and gave me support when things weren’t going as well as you’d like.  She made it look so easy, which I know it’s not!

Mark Nuckawski, RPN at the Owen Sound Regional Hospital.

Mark was nominated by a patient who wrote, “Mark is a wonderful nurse on the psychiatric ward. He doesn’t come into work to just do his job and go home.  He comes to provide care and compassion to his patients and every patient that he comes in contact with. ln this field, working with those who have mental health issues, it is important to connect with them and just listen when they need someone to talk to. Mark is my “go to” nurse whenever I am admitted.”

He concluded his nomination with, “Keep up the awesome work, Mark, and keep being you!”