Happy Nurses Week!

Linda Diane Taylor 1977

Celebrating Nurses Week: Reflecting on a Journey of Compassion

As Nurses Week rolls around again, I find myself reminiscing on the incredible journey I've had since stepping into the world of nursing back in 1977. Yep, you read that right—I've been at this game for a while, and let me tell you, it's been quite the ride!

So, picture this: fresh out of nursing school, brimming with enthusiasm and ready to make a difference. My journey started at MSA Hospital where I stayed for 14 years.

Expanding my horizons, I pursued further education and became a Hypnotherapist and Counsellor. I studied alternative therapies like Therapeutic Touch, Reflexology and more. I became one of the first nurses in British Columbia to be a Registered Nurse in Private Practice.

I learned and practiced traditional First Nations healing and the plant medicines from elders. Starting with Coast Salish elder Doris Dolan of the Semiahmoo First Nations here in White Rock. I went on to be taught by many traditional medicine women.

• Leah Patrick of the Nak'azdli Whut'en nation in Fort St. James.
• Doris Boyd of Tsideldel First Nation (Formerly Known as Alexis Creek).
• Julie George of Lhtako Dene Nation (formerly Red Bluff).
• Barb Derrick and Mrs. Setah of Xeni Gwet’in (formerly Nemiah Valley).
• Theresa Johnny of the Tl'esqox (formerly Toosey Band) 
• Chantyman, Babtist, Jimmy, Squinas Women of Lhoosk'uz First Nation (formally Kluskas)- 
• Granny Grizzley of the Cree Nation
• Metis Elder 

But here's the thing about nursing—it's not just a job; it's a calling. And that calling took me beyond the hospital walls to First Nations communities in British Columbia. It was there that I truly learned the meaning of resilience, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. Working alongside incredible individuals, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that health care workers have on the lives of others.

Drug and Alcohol Counselor at the Quesnel Friendship Centre, eventually serving as the Manager of Nenqayni Treatment Centre. These experiences deepened my understanding of holistic care and reinforced the importance of addressing the diverse needs of individuals and communities.

After near 10 years working in the Communities I returned to hospital nursing at Langley Memorial Hospital and Peace Arch Hospital. The Surrey Memorial Hospital was just opening and I had secured a full time job there but life had another offer.

And then came the adventure of a lifetime—a journey to California as a and then to Peace Arch Hospital and Langley Hospital, where I had the privilege of serving patients and communities with all the passion in my heart.travel nurse. Talk about a whirlwind of new experiences! But amidst the hustle and bustle of a new environment, one thing remained constant: the unwavering dedication of my coworkers. Their commitment to patient care was nothing short of inspiring.

As I look back on those years, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have been part of such an amazing profession. To all the nurses I've had the privilege of working alongside, and to every nurse out there, I salute you. Your dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment to patient care make the world a better place.

So here's to us, fellow nurses, as we celebrate Nurses Week once again. Let's continue to lift each other up, support one another, and keep spreading that love and compassion wherever we go. Because together, we truly make a difference. 💙 #NursesWeek #HealthcareHeroes #ThankYouNurses 🏥💉#NursesWeek #HealthcareHeroes #ThankYouNurses