Two decades of postpartum care at NYGH

Providing support

It has been 23 years since I first started at North York General Hospital (NYGH). I work as a Registered Practical Nurse on the Postpartum Unit, where I teach new mothers how to provide care to their newborn babies, including how to breastfeed, bathe and nurse their child.

NYGH as my #1 choice

I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse, and specifically that I wanted to work at North York General Hospital. I chose NYGH because I saw the opportunity as a great way to contribute to one of Canada’s leading community academic hospitals, and I knew that I would be happy in an exciting and evolving organization. I’ve always believed that my clinical skills are aligned and well-suited to my current position. Overall, I love that NYGH serves a culturally-diverse community through partnerships and academic endeavours— they are constantly setting new standards for patient and family-centred care.

Unforgettable moments during my career

I feel as though new memories are being created every day. Most of my memorable moments at NYGH are related to problem solving or coming up with solutions for my patients. Creative thinking, outside-of-the-box solutions, and making sure that my patients’ needs are met are my focuses in my role. I enjoy the variety of the work and the people I work with. Working within a supportive organization that recognizes their employees as their greatest asset is a huge motivation to perform at my highest level.

Persevering through the pandemic

As a health care worker amid the pandemic, I strive to take measures that help protect people against the spread of COVID-19. This pandemic has far-reaching public health consequences, and my goal is to continue pushing through and providing a high standard of care to my patients by any means.

“Giving back comes in full circle…” 

My hobbies outside of work include cooking, cleaning, and spending time with my husband, family, and friends. I am very family oriented and enjoy spending time with loved ones. I participated in the Staff Lottery not just because I might win, but because of the chance to give back to the organization. I feel as though NYGH has provided me with such great opportunities in the last two decades, that it’s only right I give back and do what I can to contribute. Giving back comes in full circle, so the money from this win will be put towards my current education to complete my BScN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and will significantly help with the associated costs.

— Denise Lacey