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Amherstview nurse knows the price of greatness is responsibility Featured
Laurie Leckie has had an unconventional life.
Raised but two loving grandparents in Sarnia, she, in turn, helped raise her three sisters and brother.
When she was old enough to enter the workforce, she became a Residential Aide and retrained as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN).
Speaking from Helen Henderson Care Centre where she has worked since 2008, the 47-year-old is a role model for determination and responsibility.
Wearing scrubs on a wet November morning, Laurie smiles brightly when talking about a recent weather-related car accident that almost made her late for work.
“I try to get to work as much as possible. I try not to leave the floor short,” she says kindly, unaware of the respect she earned from co-workers when she navigated through that crisis to arrive for her shift on-time.
Known for her kindness and easy-going nature with residents and staff, Laurie is the home’s Employee of the Month for December. She has one-daughter and a grandson.
“When I look at the residents, I think to myself, I am going to be them one-day,” she explains about her motivation to provide gentle care to the home’s 104 long-term care residents.
“It’s a learning experience here,” she continues softly. “Every day, I give a lot of thought to what I can bring the residents. They’re my family and this is the end of their life. You want to make it easy for them.”
Speaking on behalf of the home, Director of Care Sue Reynolds notes, “Laurie is an amazing nurse who has shown dedication and perseverance as she worked her way through school as a Residential Aide before moving to her role as an RPN in long-term care. She always has a smile and her laugh is infectious. We are fortunate to have Laurie as part our team. She shows tremendous compassion for our residents, families and her peers. We are truly grateful for Laurie’s time and talent.”
Eager to develop and grow as a person, Laurie’s goals and dreams are unclear.
“I’m in a transition,” she admits. “There’s always room for improvement and room to grow. I’m not sure if I want to pursue a higher level of nursing or a holistic approach to health care.
“I always think it’s good for us to continue to grow. I learn every day from my staff. There’s a great group of Personal Support Workers here. We get things done and we work well together as a team. In fact, I accept this award on their behalf because they’re the ones who help me.”
Looking thoughtful, Laurie notes, “Recently, I was even able to get some staff to use a German resident’s native-language when providing care. It’s those little things that make a difference. Our residents are still in there somewhere. You just have to find a way to relate to them.”
Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the compassionate health care of Laurie Leckie. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585 ext. 251.