I am a proud nurse, union advocate, and member of the BCNU who has been actively involved in union work since graduating from nursing school. I came to nursing a little later—I became a nurse at 30, shortly after the birth of my second son—and from the very beginning, I felt strongly about the importance of advocating for our profession and for one another.

I’m also a mom to three sons, now 21, 18, and 15, and have been married for 23 years this year. My family and I lived in Terrace and Lillooet before settling in Kamloops in 2009, where we’ve built strong roots in both our community and the nursing profession.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of serving in multiple roles on the Regional Executive, including Communications Secretary, Professional Responsibility Advocate, and Occupational Health & Safety Representative. These roles gave me a deep understanding of the challenges nurses face—from workplace safety to professional practice concerns—and reinforced my commitment to strong advocacy, clear communication, and supporting members in meaningful ways.

For the past five years, I have worked in the Enhanced Disability Management Program (EDMP), supporting members—primarily within Vancouver Coastal Health, including sites at VGH—through illness and injury. While this role may have made me less visible locally at times, it has never been a step away from advocacy. Instead, it has allowed me to support members in a different and deeply impactful way—often during some of the most difficult and vulnerable periods of their lives.

Like many, the past few years have also brought personal challenges. Our family experienced the loss of my mom, as well as my mother- and father-in-law. During this time, I have balanced my professional responsibilities with being present for my family and taking care of myself. These experiences have deepened my compassion, resilience, and understanding of what members may be facing behind the scenes.

Outside of work, I value time outdoors and with my family. I enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, exploring on our side-by-side, and spending quiet time knitting. I’m also known to unexpectedly belt out an 80s or 90s song - and occasionally dance around the house.

I am running for Regional Council Member because I believe in strong, accountable leadership and a union that is deeply connected to its members. My experience—both professionally and personally—has shaped my commitment to showing up with integrity, compassion, and a focus on what matters most: supporting nurses.