Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) is proud to announce Amanda MacDonald, a registered nurse (RN) with the Hudson Regional Cancer Program (North Simcoe Muskoka), is the recipient of the Nursing Now Ontario Award (NNOA).
“I was completely shocked to be nominated for this award, let alone selected as the winner out of 161 nominations. I am extremely grateful to work with such an amazing and thoughtful team,” says MacDonald, Primary Medical Oncology Nurse.
Each year the NNOA is presented by two Ontario nursing organizations — the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) and the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (WeRPN). Together, they celebrate nurses in three categories: nurse practitioner (NP), registered practical nurse (RPN) and RN, for their contributions to the nursing profession and Ontario’s health system.
Nominations are judged by a volunteer panel of nurses and awarded during National Nursing Week. A virtual ceremony will be held next week to celebrate this year’s recipients.
“What exciting news to celebrate as we prepare for National Nursing Week, to recognize, on a provincial level, a member of Team RVH”, says Leanne Weeks, Vice President, Clinical & Chief Nursing Executive. “Amanda’s dedication, compassion, and outstanding care in oncology nursing has not gone unnoticed and this award is truly well-deserved. Her commitment to her patients and her profession is an inspiration to us all.”
Dr. Sara Rask and Dr. Jason Yu, Medical Oncologists, nominated MacDonald and are thrilled she was selected as the RN recipient.
“Amanda is a rare mix of intellect, empathy, and unwavering sense of purpose”, says Dr. Yu. “She has an uncanny knack for knowing what patients need and when they need it. Day in and day out she continues to be of tireless service to patients and colleagues alike.”
Dr. Rask added, “Not only does Amanda excel in patient care, but she is also an advocate for change and demonstrates early adoption of new practices in clinic. Amanda is a champion for evidence-based practice and change management, traits which are essential in today’s healthcare environment. Her mentorship fosters excellence in local nursing practice, benefitting patients and the entire program.”
MacDonald has worked in the Hudson Regional Cancer Centre as an oncology nurse for over 10 years. She helps patients navigate through the system and ensures they have the right supports at the right time.
“Amanda’s empathy, professionalism, and advocacy has made a significant difference in the healing journey for her patients”, says Dana Naylor, Vice President Clinical & Regional Vice President, Cancer Services, Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario). “She is committed to understanding their unique needs and provides exceptional care, and unwavering support during their journey with cancer. Her kindness has left a lasting impression on her patients, and they will always remember the positive impact she had on their life”.
The NNOA leverages and supports the Nursing Now campaign, a global initiative led by the World Health Organization and the International Council of Nurses. The campaign supports nurses to lead, to learn and to strengthen the profession in both clinical practice and political leadership. For more information about the awards, please visit RNAO’s website.