Laurie Charland

Compassion always seems to stay in the forefront when, as a patient, I have interacted with her. She has been my nurse several times and I have been happy to know she is working directly with me. Excellence it seems is what she aims for. She is a professional who takes what she does seriously, but is a solid representative of the nursing profession. I have seen her willingly sacrifice her time off to assist me and others, should it be required. Selflessness may be a character trait of hers. Integrity in her is obvious-she tells you the truth and follows up with you in appropriate detail, should the situation require it. When it comes to Dignity, she protects that of the patient. This is very, very important I think.

I, for example, had no idea I had cancer and was completely surprised (still am). She treated me with the utmost courtesy and respect. She still does. She has helped me regain at least an illusion of control in my life. She also carries with her, in her hearing, personal dignity. This helps her in my opinion, deal appropriately with her colleagues, family members of patients, patients and other staff members.

She helped me, for example, in several significant ways. One in particular stands out. Some other nurses may not have taken the time to help. She helped micro manage the medications I took at night, from about 10 pm on, so I was able to sleep throughout the night. I received about 5-7 hrs sleep at night. The difference in the way I felt was both good and significant.

I know this is a significant and thoughtful award and I nominate Laurie for going beyond the normal bounds of a caregiver.