Dr. Helen Mussallem Award

I have worked predominantly in public health and community health nursing in rural Nova Scotia. It was my experience working as a public health nurse (PHN) in a primary to grade eight school that instilled in me a passion for public health.  Advocating for the health and well-being of children, youth, and families in the school setting was a meaningful experience for me.  In my role as PHN with the Early Years team, I aimed to balance my time between providing short and long term support to mothers and families through telephone assessments and home visiting, with community engagement and health promotion activities. 

I am currently enrolled in the Masters of Science in Nursing program at Dalhousie University. My thesis is under the supervision of Dr. Megan Aston (School of Nursing, Dalhousie) and will explore women’s experiences of prenatal education and support in Halifax Regional Municipality. My interest in prenatal education arose from the interactions I had while working as a PHN in rural Nova Scotia with women who were pregnant or had recently delivered a baby. By exploring the experiences of first-time mothers as they navigate the prenatal and early postpartum period, it will offer new ways of understanding how healthcare providers and communities can best support expectant mothers and new families.

I am grateful to be the 2017 recipient of the CNF Dr. Helen Mussallem award. Dr. Mussallem made significant contributions to the nursing profession, and I am deeply honoured for this recognition.  Thank you!