Lundbeck Canada Inc. Mental Health Nursing Award
One of my earliest memories of childhood is the strong desire I had to become a nurse. I was fortunate to be part of a family that valued the importance of caring for others. This had a large influence on me growing up. I knew early on that I wanted to become someone who made a positive difference in the lives of others. Nursing was a natural choice and has since become one of my most cherished accomplishments. This year marks my 20th anniversary of becoming a nurse and I can honestly say I love what I do, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Nursing has provided me with the opportunity to travel, to pursue advanced education and training, and most importantly, to connect and care for people in their most difficult moments.
Although I loved my early exciting career as an emergency room nurse, I was drawn to the patients who were struggling with mental health issues. The stories of children and youth struck me the most, and it was these early experiences that fuelled my desire to become a pediatric nurse with a specialty in mental health. My current role as an advanced practice nurse is deeply rewarding. Every day I learn new things from my colleagues and from the patients and families we serve together as a team. Caring for patients, providing hope in times of adversity, and being part of an amazing team is what keeps me going in nursing. I feel very blessed to be part of a profession that provides such meaning to life.
