Day was nominated by two different members of the public for her exemplary bedside manner. She was commended for her empathy, compassion and cheerful manner.

“I’m honoured,” said Day concerning the win.  “It humbling and overwhelming to be recognized this way.  I love being a nurse and I take great pride that I’m able to make a difference in my patients lives.”

Here is an excerpt from her nominations:

“During my recent stay at OSMH, Angela stood out as a shining example of how a nurse can go above and beyond to make a lasting impression.  Angela was extremely helpful and responsive as one would expect, but what stood out the most was just how cheerful and friendly she was.  She made me feel as though I was a close friend or family member, not a patient with how we spoke.  What stood out the most is what happened following my diagnosis which occurred after her shift ended.  She arrived the morning after and came to check in on me where we discussed the diagnosis.  Angela was happier than I was that I had a diagnosis for my issue, and it felt incredibly genuine.  Her happiness and smile (evident behind her mask) was contagious, even though I was still feeling terrible. Angela is simply the sweetest, most caring nurse I have ever met and should be a role model for nurses everywhere.”

“Angela took excellent care of my dad when he was admitted.   Great communication regarding EMS trips to RVH and patient transfer. Angela treats everyone with such compassion and care. Her bedside manner is top notch!”

Jill Colin, OSMH Vice President, Patient Care & Chief Nursing Executive presented the award to Day in a small ceremony with leaders and colleagues.

“Angela’s nomination truly embodies the essence of nursing. It underscores her expertise and her skillful approach in addressing not only patients’ medical requirements but also their emotional well-being. She epitomizes the highest standards of our profession, and I am honored to have her as a colleague, ” remarked Colin.

Day had tough competition, edging out 14 other OSMH nurses nominated for the award by community members, including runner-up Obstetrics Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Meredith White who was praised for her knowledge and attentiveness by a family who’s two little girls were born at OSMH.

The OSMH Nurses Alumnae Nightingale Award recognizes a nurse at OSMH whose work has positively affected the lives of patients. It is named after nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale whose lasting contribution was her role in founding the modern nursing profession. Her legacy is one of compassion, commitment to patient care and thoughtful nursing leadership.

In recognition of the value OSMH nurses contribute to the healthcare community, OSMH developed five Peer Recognition Awards to honour their ongoing dedication and commitment.

2024 – OSMH Peer Recognition Award Winners

Heart of Gold – Danielle Lightowlers, RPN

A nurse who in the past year has demonstrated and exemplified compassion in all avenues with patients, families and peers

Coach of the Year – Michelle Pawlak, RPN

A supportive and resourceful nurse who in the past year has provided coaching and mentoring to their peers

Just for Laughs – Katie Ruggles, RN

Laughter is the best medicine, a nurse who in the past year has demonstrated positivity & humor with patients, families and peers

Rookie of the Year – Ceilidh McInnis, RN

A new hire or new grad who in the last year has demonstrated outstanding nursing skills or most improved during their first year

PSW of the Year – Riley McKerrow
A personal support worker, who in the last year has demonstrated outstanding skill, compassion, courage, trust and teamwork.

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Angie Green-Hill experienced a mental health crisis in 2016, leading her to receive care in OSMH’s Mental Health Services department and Day Program.

“Honestly, the Day Program [at OSMH] saved my life”, Green-Hill said. “They gave me the tools and stuff I needed to be a better person, mom, friend.”

Angie’s Auction takes place in May to acknowledge Mental Health Month. This year’s auction raised $16,000, including $2,000 in private donations. A cornhole tournament, one of Green-Hill’s favourite activities, also raised $4,000 to support Angie’s Auction.

The $20,000 raised this year allowed Angie’s Auction to officially surpass the $100,000 total giving landmark.

“I can’t stop now”, Green-Hill said. “Our community benefits from it, and that’s why I continue to do it.”

Angie Green-Hill recently had the opportunity to tour OSMH’s Mental Health department, her first visit since COVID-19 began, and see first-hand the difference she is making in the community.

Many improvements have been made through Green-Hill’s donations; including the purchase of new exercise bikes, comfortable dining chairs, iPads, recreational activities, and comfortable clothing for patients to wear.

“Angie’s donations have made our department more comfortable for the patients in need of our support”, said Brandon Lewicki, Program Manager of Mental Health Services at OSMH. “She has provided our healthcare professionals with essential tools to provide better care and provided our patients with essential tools to heal and recover.”

A newly renovated, bright, and spacious Group Room was made possible through Angie’s Auction. The room provides a therapeutic setting for group conversations and a welcoming environment for visitors to see their loved ones. Outside of the room, there is a plaque on the wall to dedicate the room to Angie Green-Hill’s generosity.

“Learning about other people and being in a group really helped me realize I wasn’t alone”, Green-Hill remembered. “I am just a mom who crashed, I didn’t know how to help myself.”

The donations made by Green-Hill have made a significant difference in the health and well-being of those seeking mental health treatment at OSMH. The new items have provided patients with comfort and activities to support them through recovery.

“I wish I could tell [Angie] the exact number of people that have benefitted from her donations”, said Trevor Wentzel, Recreational Therapist for OSMH’s Mental Health Services.  “I would then multiply that number by four, because each person she has benefitted also has family members and friends that benefit from this support.”

Green-Hill’s impact could not have been possible without the support she receives from her family, friends, local businesses, and the generous auction participants. This year, Angie’s Auction also received sponsorships from ODAS Park, Orillia Cornhole Club, McLean & Dickey, Jim Wilson Chevrolet Buick GMC, Chantel Coward & Associates, Maximum Mobility, Workplace Medical Group, Lake Country Corvette Club, ODAS PARK PICKLEBALL CLUB, Sunshine Carpet and Flooring, and Cropcircle Cornhole

After another successful auction and having the ability to see the impact of her donation, Angie Green-Hill shows no signs of stopping her support for OSMH.

“I’m really proud of this”, Green-Hill told OSMH staff. “Seeing the impact makes me want to do this even more.”

To donate to the Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation, please visit www.osmhfoundation.ca

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