A Breath of Life: Nicole’s Journey

Only days before Nicole McGlade arrived at North York General Hospital (NYGH), she was a healthy, active 36-year-old. But in a blink, the mother of two have found herself struggling for breath, her oxygen levels mysteriously and dangerously low. All of a sudden, Nicole’s world had shifted, thrusting her into a life-or-death battle. Hers is a story of hope, resilience, and the life-saving power of a hospital prepared for any emergency — due in great part to the generosity of its donors.

A Breath of Life: Nicole’s Life-Changing Journey at NYGH

Nicole’s Life-Changing Journey at North York General.

Only days before Nicole McGlade arrived at North York General Hospital (NYGH) on January 9, 2023, she was a healthy, active 36-year-old. But in a blink, the mother of two have found herself struggling for breath, her oxygen levels mysteriously and dangerously low. All of a sudden, Nicole’s world had shifted, thrusting her into a life-or-death battle. Hers is a story of hope, resilience, and the life-saving power of a hospital prepared for any emergency — due in great part to the generosity of its donors.

The Crisis Unfolds: A Race Against Time

By the time Nicole stepped into the Charlotte & Lewis Steinberg Emergency, she knew something was terribly wrong. The staff was moving with urgency, immediately clearing her airways and working to stabilize her. Amid the chaos, her oxygen levels had plummeted to 68%, requiring resuscitation and the use of high-flow oxygen. Her fear was overwhelming, yet Nicole recalls feeling a flicker of relief as respiratory therapist Christine connected her to the oxygen. “That first night was a blur,” Nicole says, “but Christine’s patience and care brought my first real sense of hope.”
Dr. Amna Karabegovic, Nicole’s emergency physician, led the charge with expertise and empathy, outlining every step as her team worked quickly to save Nicole’s life. “They worked so fast,” Nicole recalls, “and I knew I was in the right hands.”

Compassionate Care: Every Moment, Every Person

For Nicole, the care she received extended beyond medical expertise. During her stay in the ICU, the sounds of patient alarms and the rush of activity were constant, yet the staff made her feel like she was their sole focus. She speaks fondly of nurse Sharlene, who provided her with comfort and encouragement, administering each does of medication with a reassuring smile. “Every person who walked into my room—doctors, nurses, even the cleaning staff like Carla — brought a kindness that lifted my spirits,” she remembers.

Nicole’s journey through the ICU involved multiple medical procedures, including a bronchotomy, all aimed at treating the severe bacterial infection that had attacked her respiratory system. With each step, Nicole felt seen and heard, particularly by Dr. Sanders from the Respirology team, whose clear communication and steady approach helped her feel safe during even the most daunting treatments.

A Journey to Recovery: Support that Makes a Difference

After days of intensive care and the unwavering dedication of her medical team, Nicole began her path to recovery. Physical therapists joined her care plan, introducing her to exercises that would gradually restore her strength. As she prepared for discharge, they offered tips and support for her transition home, a testament to NYGH’s commitment to her long-term well-being.

Today, Nicole is back with her family, cherishing each moment of a life that could have been lost. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the impact that donor support has on NYGH. From life-saving equipment to the compassionate hands that administer care, it is the contributions of generous supporters that enable NYGH to be there for patients like Nicole—ready, prepared, and committed to saving lives in an instant.

Would you like to support patients and their families at North York General? Donate today to help fund our most urgent needs including upgraded equipment, enhanced care spaces and innovation across NYGH:

Donate Now
Behind the Scenes of Donor-Driven CareBehind the Scenes of Donor-Driven Care at North York GeneralA Pint-Sized Powerhouse: Madison Rallies For North York GeneralA Pint-Sized Powerhouse: Madison Rallies For NYGH