This is an opinion column was written by Lynn Guerriero, President and CEO of Niagara Health. It was originally published in the St. Catharines Standard, Welland Tribune and Niagara Falls Review.
For seven years, Niagara Health has been recognized as a top employer — an achievement that fills us with immense pride. This accolade reflects the dedication of our more than 7,300 employees, physicians, volunteers and patient partners who go above and beyond to care for our community.
We are also thrilled to share that for the third consecutive year, Niagara Health has been named one of Canada’s Top Diversity Employers. This honour reaffirms our commitment to fostering a workplace that champions Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Our teams continue to lead the way in creating an inclusive environment for women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This achievement is a recognition of the passion and dedication of every team member who helps shape a welcoming, respectful and supportive culture at Niagara Health.
Our teams are at the heart of these achievements, and their stories illustrate the passion and dedication that make Niagara Health an exceptional place to work and receive care. Take, for instance, Isaiah Beardy, an Environmental Services Supervisor. Isaiah helps create a safe space by willingly answering questions from those curious about Indigenous Peoples and by fostering a welcoming environment at the hospital.
Then there’s Dr. Amir Abrishami, an award-winning anesthesiologist who has turned what is often solitary work into a highly collaborative and team-driven approach to patient care. His commitment to teamwork and innovation is helping redefine how anesthesiologists engage with healthcare teams, ensuring safer and more seamless surgical experiences for patients.
Our commitment to inclusivity is exemplified by Eugene Perez, an internationally trained nurse who brings a unique perspective to patient care. Eugene’s diverse background enriches our team and enhances the quality of care for our multicultural community.
In mental health and addictions, many peer support workers stand out for their courage and commitment. Terra Chambers is an example, sharing her journey of sobriety to help others struggling with addiction. Her lived experience provides hope and encouragement to those on the path to recovery, making a profound impact on patients and colleagues alike.
Another example of the incredible dedication within our organization is Leticia Briones, a Brock University student and aspiring healthcare professional, who volunteers. During the Hospital Information System launch, she stepped up in the Emergency Department, supporting patients and families through the transition. Volunteers like Briones play a vital role in creating a welcoming, supportive environment for patients and families.
At Niagara Health, we also recognize the invaluable contributions of our Patient Partners, who collaborate with us to shape the future of healthcare. Their dedication to improving care delivery is helping to create a better experience for everyone who interacts with our hospital system.
These are just a few of the incredible stories that showcase the passion, dedication and impact of the Niagara Health team.
Healthcare is demanding, and the past handful of years have placed incredible pressure on our teams. Yet, they continue to show up, give their best and deliver compassionate care. A little patience, kindness and understanding from our community go a long way in supporting those who care for us when we need it most.
We also want to remind visitors that while we want to hear about your experiences, we have a strict no-photo and no-video policy in our facilities. This policy is in place to protect the privacy and dignity of our patients and staff.
Healthcare is constantly evolving, and so are we. While we are proud of this recognition, we know there is always more to do. We remain committed to building a workplace where every team member feels valued and supported — because when our teams thrive, so do our patients.
