A front-line worker at a local nursing home has won a workplace award for her helpful nature which she credits to her mother who was a childcare provider and foster parent.

 “In general, I like helping people,” says BethAnne James, a Registered Nurse at Helen Henderson Care Centre in Amherstview. “I get that from my mother. She’s a very selfless person who was always helping people.”

Speaking from the popular home where she has worked for more than one-year, the friendly Kingston woman says, “I love it here.”

Her work includes providing direct health care to 104 residents in a long-term care (LTC) setting.

Speaking on behalf of the home which named BethAnne Employee of the Month for July, Assistant Director of Care Melissa Locke says, “BethAnne is a wonderful person to have on our nursing team. She is always busy and very involved with what is going on with the residents in our home.”

Prior to moving to South East Ontario, BethAnne worked in LTC in New Brunswick and acute care in Pembroke. She was born and raised in Nova Scotia.

Asked to describe herself, the friendly nurse uses words such as quiet, reserved and caring.

“I like to take stuff-in,” she says with a smile.

When she’s not at work, BethAnne is parenting her six-year-old daughter. She also likes to read and listen to music.

Interestingly, her sister is also a nurse.

“I think it runs in the family,” BethAnne says about her family’s interest in the well-being of others.

Pausing thoughtfully, she admits the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult.

“It’s busy,” she confirms. “It’s been hard on everyone. I do not have any childcare right now and my husband is in the military which makes it challenging. It helps us to rotate shifts. I’m busy, but that’s ok.”

Looking around the home, the petite brunette notes, “I think there is a very good environment here. I’m happy to be a part of the health care team at Helen Henderson Care Centre.”

Questions for BethAnne

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

“I’d like to make everyone feel heard and important. Especially in these times.”

If you weren’t at your current job, what would you be doing?

“Probably working with children. The elderly and children are similar in a lot of ways.”

If you could rule the world, what would you do on day one?

“I’d like to help all of those who are hurting.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the kindness of BethAnne James. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585.