A Kingston man who is new to Canada has been recognized for his work caring for residents at a long-term care home in Amherstview.

“I love working here with everyone,” admits Aaron Medrano, a 38-year-old Personal Support Worker (PSW) at Helen Henderson Care Centre in Amherstview. “I like the teamwork. Staff are friendly and helpful; they treat everyone as family.”

New to Canada, Aaron is a trained nurse who arrived in Kingston from the Philippines on Aug. 1, 2023. He started working at the popular home that November; a job he has performed so well it earned him Employee of the Month four months later.

“When I lived in the Philippines, I worked for 16 years at a hospital, 12 in the emergency department,” Aaron explains. “I learned a lot there.”

Clearly passionate about health care, Aaron hopes to earn his nursing designation in Canada while working to support his family as a PSW.

“I’m happily married with two children. I met my wife at nursing school,” the friendly man says with a smile. “When the four of us first arrived in Canada last year, we noticed how everything is different here which has been interesting. We decided to reside in Kingston because it is halfway between Toronto and Montreal. It’s been a great place to live.”

Known for his positive attitude and good work ethic, Aaron was nominated for his workplace award by a coworker.

“Aaron has been a great addition to our team,” says Assistant Director of Care, Melissa Locke. “He is eager to help and always puts the residents first. He is friendly, helpful, and kind; we are grateful for his good work.”

Aaron seems pleased with the feedback.

“My coworkers are great at giving advice which is helpful,” he says kindly.

When Aaron isn’t at work, he can be found at home.

“My passion is cooking and taking care of the kids while my wife studies at St. Lawrence College as an international student,” Aaron confirms.

Asked to describe himself, he notes, “I’m the kind of person who works hard.”

Questions for Aaron

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

“If given the chance, I would help the homeless, helpless and less fortunate.”

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

“The power to heal the sick.”

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

“I’d love to be a chef. I have loved cooking since I was a child and I’m now teaching my 12-year-old son how to cook.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the good work of Aaron Medrano, our Employee of the Month for March 2024. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585.