When her good friend got the devastating news that her husband's cancer had come back, local nurse, Kristen Kyryluk, put all her know-how and compassion to use in supporting them both.
That's why her friend, Lana Massaro, nominated Kristen as her holiday hero:
"Since August, when my husband learned that his cancer had returned, she has been an unwavering source of support for our family. From August 9th until now, she has been there for us every step of the way.
"When we required home care, she graciously utilized her experience from working with Parameda (and now at OHAH) to ensure all our needs were met, consistently going above and beyond. She has been by my side for 17 years, and in recent years, our bond has become inseparable.
"I cannot express how much we would struggle without her and her family during this challenging time. Being a nurse is a demanding profession, yet she provides exceptional care to everyone she encounters. She truly deserves recognition and celebration for her incredible dedication. I am certain that many others share my sentiments about her uniqueness and invaluable contributions."
TBnewswatch spoke to Kristen about the nomination. Sounding choked up at the kindness and surprise of the nomination, she said she was honoured to have her long-time friend nominate her, "they're such lovely people."
"I think it meant a lot to them to have someone by their side just as like a friend and as a nurse so I could help them in a different way with their needs; whatever Chris needed, I was there as a nurse, but also as a friend too."
Kristen added that while the situation is obviously sad, but she's proud of her friends' strength, noting "it's been quite a journey."
Being a home nurse for the last few years, Kristen enjoys the connection that you establish with her patients.
"Knowing that you are able to keep them at home, making sure that their needs are met, taking care of them and, like I said, establishing that bond for them with them."
