As a registered nurse, Mary’s decades of practice included working in the surgical unit, emergency department, renal dialysis and the renal transplant units before she moved into management. She now oversees the Women’s and Children’s Program as part of St. Michael’s Hospital’s Inner City Health Program.
“St. Mike’s has one of the most diverse patient populations of any hospital in Ontario,” Mary notes, “We serve everyone from downtown-area youth to Bay Street professionals. A large number of individuals who are homeless are also seen in the emergency department.”
Witnessing how nursing and the role of hospitals have changed, Mary became eager to also offer her experience and knowledge at the community level. “Medical advancements and healthcare demands have changed the way hospitals serve people. It is much more of an in-and-out service nowadays. Hospitals play an important role in keeping people healthy but now, more than ever, the maintenance and long term support that patients need is actually provided at the community level. This is why Street Health is so important and deserves any support each of us is able to give.”
Three years ago, as her way of giving, Mary joined Street Health’s Board of Directors.
Board Member, Mary (back row, third from right)