Ginette Lemire Rodger Award

I became a registered nurse because I’ve always wanted to help people during their most difficult times. Watching nurses care for my loved ones showed me how powerful compassion and support can be, and I knew I wanted to be part of that. 

Through my nursing experience, I’ve seen how important it is to not only treat illness but to truly care for the whole person. Over time, I developed a strong interest in supporting people in rural areas, where access to care is often limited. 

That’s why I’m pursuing the Nurse Practitioner role—to expand my skills and provide better care for individuals and families in rural communities. I want to help close the gap in healthcare resources and make it easier for people to get the help they need, close to home. 

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner will allow me to do even more. With advanced knowledge and skills, I can take on a greater role in patient care, especially in rural communities where resources are limited.  

Making a difference in the lives of people during their most vulnerable moments is what nursing means to me. It’s more than just a job—it’s a way to make lives better, one patient at a time. 

~ Sharra Penney, BNRN