As a respiratory therapist (RT) working at Chilliwack General Hospital (CGH), my primary role is to assess, treat and manage patients experiencing respiratory distress and/or respiratory failure who have conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, trauma or cardiac arrest. I will also see patients who are ready for discharge to determine their needs for home oxygen.

Being an RT is never boring! I love that respiratory therapy is a fast-paced career that changes every day. We see the sickest patients in the hospital and are often called when a patient’s condition is worsening for early intervention. I also love that we see patients of all ages from newborns to the elderly.

I have the best team imaginable here at CGH. We work so well together as a team to deliver the best possible care and support each other through difficult cases and through many respiratory virus seasons. The volume and level of acuity can be challenging, but our team handles it all so well.

I have been doing this job for 26 years and I continue to learn and grow every day. CGH has offered me the ability to provide excellent respiratory care to patients while also allowing me to teach residents and fellow staff. I find teaching to be incredibly rewarding and a great addition to my regular position.

Management has been very supportive to our department and our RT team makes sure to check in with each other so ensure everyone is taking care of themselves.

I have been with Fraser Health for over 25 years and have seen many changes – they’ve been an excellent employer! If asked, I would always recommend my fellow health care workers to consider a job in our health region!

I currently live in Chilliwack and have always loved the opportunities it provides outside of work. I enjoy running and Chilliwack has the best places to do so. Vedder Mountain, the Community Forest and the Rotary Trail are just a few of the beautiful places I get to enjoy. I also enjoy spinning and find exercise to be the best way to decompress from my high-paced work environment.

Having a lot of family in Chilliwack was the main reason I moved back to start our family. My twin girls will both graduate from the University of Fraser Valley this spring. Having them be able to access a university close to home has been incredible. The schooling for my son has also been great. Chilliwack has been a great place for us to raise our kids.