I still remember the day I realized I wanted to be a nurse. It wasn’t a grand moment, but rather a quiet one—watching my mother care for my ailing grandmother with the gentleness and expertise of someone who knew exactly how to bring comfort in moments of pain. The way she adjusted the pillows just so, checked her temperature with a soft touch, and reassured her with a steady voice made me realize that nursing wasn’t just about medical knowledge. It was about love—love for the people who put their trust in you, love for a profession that demanded resilience, and love for the simple, yet profound, act of caring for another human being.

That same love and dedication shine through in the lives of so many nurses across Canada. In honour of National Nursing Week, we celebrate a few of the remarkable professionals whose work, compassion, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on healthcare.

1. Tammy Pentney

“People are not aware of the depth and breadth of what nurses do, on many, many levels.” — Tammy Pentney

With over two decades of experience at Campbell River Hospital in British Columbia, Registered Nurse Tammy Pentney has dedicated her career to supporting both patients and her fellow healthcare workers. As the Clinical Nurse Leader for the Medical Day Care and Cancer Clinic departments, her role requires her to manage schedules, oversee education initiatives, and ensure the highest quality of patient care. She describes her job as being similar to an air traffic controller, carefully balancing multiple responsibilities to keep everything running smoothly.

Pentney’s journey into nursing began with an inspiring encounter. While participating in an education abroad program, she met an Australian nurse who spoke passionately about the profession’s flexibility and opportunities for continuous learning. That conversation sparked a lifelong commitment to nursing, one that has seen her embrace leadership roles, including co-leading her hospital’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through all of her responsibilities, she remains dedicated to fostering a strong sense of teamwork, ensuring that both staff and patients feel supported and valued.

2. Sara Fung, RN 

In Toronto, Ontario, Registered Nurse Sara Fung has spent over 15 years working in labor and delivery, public health, and home care. Recognizing the many challenges nurses face when trying to advance in their careers, she took action by founding “The RN Resume,” a career coaching service aimed at helping nurses refine their resumes, prepare for interviews, and navigate their professional paths. Her work has provided invaluable guidance to nurses seeking to expand their opportunities and confidence in the workforce.

Beyond her coaching business, Fung is a strong advocate for nurses’ rights. As co-host of “The Gritty Nurse Podcast,” she openly discusses critical issues such as workplace burnout, staffing shortages, and the lack of recognition for nurses’ expertise. Her online presence, particularly on LinkedIn, has become a space where thousands of nurses engage with her insights and advice. Through mentorship and advocacy, she has empowered many nurses to push for better working conditions and find roles that truly fulfill them.

3. Dr. Judith Shamian 

“I take this responsibility very seriously, and it is clear to me that I need to try to have an impact and make a difference every day.” — Dr. Judith Shamian

Dr. Judith Shamian is a force in the nursing world, having dedicated her career to advancing healthcare leadership, policy, and advocacy. As the former President of the Canadian Nurses Association and the International Council of Nurses, she has worked tirelessly to improve conditions for nurses and ensure that their voices are heard in healthcare policy discussions. Her background in public health nursing has given her deep insight into the importance of nurse-led initiatives that prioritize both patient care and the well-being of healthcare professionals.

Dr. Shamian is highly regarded for her contributions to nursing education and workforce planning. She has collaborated with nonprofit organizations and academic institutions to enhance healthcare delivery not only in Canada but globally. Her efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including honorary degrees and recognition from prestigious health organizations. She continues to inspire nurses through mentorship, research, and advocacy, helping shape the future of the profession.

4. Navneet Kaur 

Navneet Kaur has built a career in emergency medicine, trauma response, and critical care, working in both level 1 and level 2 trauma centers. Her ability to remain calm and decisive in high-pressure situations has made her an invaluable presence in emergency departments across Canada. Beyond her expertise in trauma care, she has experience in medical-surgical nursing, internal medicine, and family practice, allowing her to adapt to a variety of healthcare settings and patient needs.

In addition to her clinical work, Kaur is passionate about supporting and mentoring new nurses. Through her presence on LinkedIn, she sheds light on the realities of emergency nursing, discussing issues such as staff shortages, mental health struggles, and the resilience required to navigate the profession. By using her platform to advocate for systemic improvements, she plays an active role in discussions aimed at making healthcare environments more supportive and sustainable for nurses.

5. Kimberly LeBlanc 

As the President of the Canadian Nurses Association, Kimberly LeBlanc has committed herself to advancing the nursing profession and improving healthcare policies across the country. She is a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) and holds academic positions at McGill University, Cardiff University, and Curtin University. Her expertise in wound care has earned her international recognition, and she has contributed extensively to research and best practices in patient care.

LeBlanc is also a vocal advocate for nurses, addressing key issues such as workplace burnout, violence in healthcare settings, and professional development opportunities. Through her leadership, she pushes for systemic changes that prioritize nurses’ well-being and job satisfaction. Her influence extends beyond policy, as she continues to educate, mentor, and inspire the next generation of nurses, ensuring that the profession continues to thrive.

Conclusion 

Nursing is not just a profession—it is a calling defined by resilience, compassion, and an unyielding dedication to others. The stories of Tammy Pentney, Sara Fung, Dr. Judith Shamian, Navneet Kaur, and Kimberly LeBlanc highlight the diverse paths within nursing, each marked by leadership, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. As we celebrate National Nursing Week, we honor the love and dedication that nurses bring to their work every day. Their compassion not only heals but also inspires, reminding us that at the heart of healthcare, there is always a nurse ready to make a difference.

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