It’s a good feeling when you find your calling in life, just ask Melissa Bell, a Personal Support Worker at Helen Henderson Care Centre.

“I love it,” the friendly 44-year-old Kingston woman replies when asked about her job working at the popular long-term care home in Amherstview. “The staff are amazing; they’re so helpful. The clientele here is a mixing pot of society, which is a nice change of pace from my previous job in security where I worked for 21 years. I saw a lot of darkness in the world in security and it was nice to come to Helen Henderson. It’s two different worlds for me and Helen Henderson is a much happier place.”

Melissa started working at the home immediately after she earned her PSW designation in June 2023. She made such a good impression in her first four months; the home named her Employee of the Month for November.

“Melissa has been a fantastic addition to our team,” explains the Assistant Director of Care, Melissa Locke. “She is very supportive of her co-workers and residents. Her heart is in everything she does.”

Pleased with the feedback, Melissa appreciates the home’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. She loves it so much; she hopes to move closer next year with her two dogs and two cats.

When she’s not at work, Melissa enjoys sculpting, painting, sketching, needlepoint, embroidery and playing with her pets.

Asked to describe herself, she uses the word hyperactive.

“I strive for perfection,” she continues with a smile. “I don’t like limitations. I push them as much as possible. I’m someone who likes to push boundaries, but in a positive way, not negative. I also like to keep busy.”

Questions for Melissa

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

“I’d increase everyone’s rate of pay and decrease the cost of living so everyone would be more comfortable. I think we need to decrease poverty. A lot of people are struggling right now.”

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

“I’d like the ability to heal.”

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

“I’d still be a PSW. I’ve found my niche and I’m not going anywhere.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the good work of Melissa Bell. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585.