Inspiring Nursing Week Stories: A Calling to Care

Jeremy Pinet

Cohen Hall, Saint John, N.B.

A typical day in a nursing home is always different! I think a good way to describe it is as the vital link that connects the residents, their families, the doctors, team members, and even management. A typical day involves communication and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

The most rewarding part for me about being a nurse is creating that trusting bond with the residents. Knowing that they can approach me with a problem, and I’ll do my best to get them what they need.

Danielle Comeau

Medley Hall, Fredericton, N.B.

My grandfather and grandmother inspired me to become a nurse. Watching my grandmother care so deeply for my grandfather made me want to offer that same compassion to others with chronic illness. 

The most rewarding part of being a nurse is having the privilege of being present and supporting residents and their families at the end of their lives. 

 As Maya Angelou said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This is so true with nursing, especially in long term and palliative care. The way you nurse, the care you provide, the hours upon hours of sweat and tears are all worth it when you get to see the way you can positively affect someone’s life. It is a real privilege to be a nurse.

Jinal Patel

Embassy Hall, Quispamsis, N.B.

Nursing is a compassionate, caring, and honourable profession that allows one to help others in need—offering comfort, care, and support. As someone who always goes above and beyond, I can’t think of a more fitting path. 

The most rewarding part of being a nurse is caring for residents who have given so much to the community, learning their life stories, and gaining experience here in Canada as an international nurse.

Kelli Himann, LPN

Cohen Hall, Saint John, N.B.

For me, the most rewarding part of being a nurse is helping patients and their families in all aspects of their care, and having the chance to work with amazing healthcare colleagues along the way. Nursing is both challenging and rewarding; it’s hard, but worth it if your heart is in it.

I always tell any new nurses and nursing students I meet that you can’t pour from an empty cup. You must make sure you take care of yourself to be able to care for your patients.

Rebecca MacGregor

Transitional Health, West Bedford, N.S.

I have always had a passion for caring for others and for improving one’s quality of life, no matter what their circumstance or situation. Initially, I began in the healthcare field as a Recreation Therapist, which then led to my interest and career in nursing. My close relationships with my grandmothers both inspired me to work with the adult and aging population and encouraged me to utilize my empathetic qualities in my daily work. My grandma also had a career in nursing and was a woman in leadership which I found aspiring. 

The most rewarding part of being a nurse is definitely seeing how the daily care we provide to the patient and their circle of care affects their outcomes and the trajectories of their lives 

To anyone considering nursing: embrace lifelong learning and change. Focus on the person, not just the diagnosis. And always treat patients as you would your own loved ones—with empathy and quality care. There is something new to learn every day, and that’s what I love about nursing.

Robin Morrison

Cedarstone Enhanced Care, Truro, N.S.

I was attracted to our unique place in the healthcare system. There’s often a focus on health as simply the absence of disease, but it’s so much more. While nurses do focus on disease and prevention, we specialize in helping people reach a state of physical, social, and mental well-being, whether a disease is present or not.

The most rewarding part of being a nurse is that we often see residents and their families at their most vulnerable. It’s a rare and profound trust to be invited into that journey—and to help guide them through it.

Tammy Keleher

Embassy Hall, Quispamsis, N.B.

I was inspired to become a nurse when I realized I could be part of something great. Enriching the lives of others by helping them during a time of need feels so rewarding. I envisioned working with like-minded people who were caring, intelligent and part of a well-respected profession. I knew there would be a lot to learn, and it is partly what intrigued me so much. A nursing career for me was an opportunity to embark on a personal and professional journey of growth through education, experience, and learning from those who inspired me.  Life is an incredible journey, and becoming a nurse means that at whatever stage in life a patient/resident or person may be in, nurses can make a difference.    

The most rewarding part is making a positive impact on the lives of others—it’s the human connection. I also love being surrounded by others who inspire me and continuing to learn about health sciences and nursing in all its forms. 

Nurses and healthcare professionals all need to find that balance and make sure we are taking care of ourselves so we can deliver our best work.

Remina Ayson

Cedarstone Enhanced Care, Truro, N.S.

Our days often revolve around providing compassionate, hands-on care for residents, meeting their medical and emotional needs. 

The most rewarding part lies in the profound impact we make on people’s lives. Seeing a patient’s health improve, helping families navigate difficult situations, or forming genuine connections with those they care for can bring immense satisfaction. Nursing allows individuals to witness the resilience of the human spirit up close—a truly unique experience. It is truly amazing when you see the resident smile in what we do or the resident with dementia remember what you did for them that they appreciate. 

Nursing is a profoundly impactful career that demands empathy, resilience, and dedication. 

To all people considering pursuing a career in nursing I would recommend them to understand the reason behind it, be prepared for hard work, cultivate compassion and patience, invest in education and training, build a support system and celebrate small victories.

Candice Dude

Frederick Hall, Fredericton, N.B.

As I grew up, I spent a lot of time in the hospital because one of my sisters was very sick. What stood out most was the care and compassion the nurses showed, not just through medical treatment, but through small gestures that showed they truly cared. 

One of the most rewarding parts of being a nurse is supporting families through such a difficult time and building trust with them.  

Nursing is truly a team effort. Whether you’re an RN, LPN, or PSW, each role is unique and equally important—no one is above anyone else. Respect and collaboration is essential. Working well with others and meeting people where they are makes a meaningful difference in the care we provide.

Breanna Herrington

Neill Hall, Fredericton, N.B.

Every day in this role looks different, and I like to keep myself busy by helping wherever I can. I always try to make a difference—big or small—wherever it’s needed.  

The most rewarding part of being a nurse is when patients recognize me and express their appreciation. When they acknowledge my work and share positive feedback, it means a great deal to me. Their appreciation provides reassurance, and I find that very fulfilling. 

To anyone thinking about becoming a nurse, I’d say: don’t expect to learn everything overnight. It takes time. You’re supporting people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and sometimes they may not seem like themselves. It’s important not to take things personally.