Marilynne Convey Aplastic Anemia & Myelodysplasia Association Of Canada Award (AAMAC)

I became a nurse because it runs in my family. My grandmother was a pediatric nurse in the early 1950s and cared for children with polio. I grew up hearing her stories, all which reflected the tremendous pride she had as a nurse. My aunts are all nurses- I am the sixth nurse in my family. It’s in my genes. 

Initially, I had no plans for what type of nurse I wanted to be. I just knew it was the right decision for me. I had the opportunity to train on a pediatric cancer ward in my final year of nursing school, and I fell in love. After my first day caring for these exceptional children and their families, I knew I had found my calling. I have been a pediatric cancer nurse ever since, and I still have that same feeling when I step foot on the ward. It’s where I belong. 

Two decades into my career, and I am now a pediatric cancer research nurse. My day-to-day work is focused on studies that try to find new therapies and new information to help children with cancer today and in the future. While my work is now an arm’s length from the ward, I am more focused than ever on doing my part to make life better for my patients. This scholarship will directly impact my ability to continue to carry out my own pediatric cancer research, and to complete my graduate studies in this area. I will honor my responsibilities as a CNF scholar every step of the way. Thank you.