Judy Hill Memorial Award

My name is Lisa Russell, and I am entering my last year of the BScN program at the University of Toronto. I entered nursing for many reasons. Firstly, I have always had a passion for helping others achieve their optimal health and wellbeing especially in times of illness or hardship. Prior to entering nursing, I pursued this passion by volunteering and working with various organizations related to mental health, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer treatment, developmental disabilities, and youth sports. All these opportunities, that I truly enjoyed, allowed me to work closely with people in my community to enhance their health and wellbeing, therefore transitioning to nursing fit well for me. Secondly, I wanted to pursue a career that would allow flexibility and balance in my lifestyle. I also love how nursing provides me with the opportunity to pursue a wide range of avenues in health and wellness. Finally, I entered nursing because I have various family members and friends that are nurses who are truly passionate about their careers and helping others. I strive to be able to provide the empathetic and compassionate care that they embody.

With so many possibilities in nursing, I am still undecided as to which field I would like to pursue after graduation. Although, I hope that one day I can move back to northern British Columbia where I grew up and help provide much needed health care in the north. I am very grateful for being chosen as one of this year’s CNF scholars.