In the year 1978, the iconic film “Grease” was released, Pierre Trudeau was the Prime Minister of Canada, and the average monthly rent in Toronto was $260/month. It was also in this year that Nerissa became a nurse. Her career spanned decades, and while many things have changed compared to the ‘good old days’, Nerissa’s passion for nursing remained.

A pivotal year for Nerissa was in 1990,

when Nerissa began working as a Registered Nurse in Toronto at Doctor’s Hospital (now Kensington Health). She likely had no idea that she would complete her career on the very same site, at the later-developed Toronto Western Hospital where she worked in the Emergency Department until December 2022.

Those that know Nerissa describe her as a dedicated and passionate nurse who has devoted her life to the profession. Sacrificing much of her free time to cover shifts, Nerissa could always be seen taking newer nurses under her wing. Nerissa was also more than just a staff nurse, taking on the responsibilities of an in-charge and triage nurse as well. Nothing seemed to phase Nerissa. Her reposeful demeanor helped her to navigate through the SARS outbreak of 2003, and while some of her colleagues began to explore retirement, Nerissa remained committed to the profession.

At the onset of the COVID 19 pandemic, Nerissa stood on the front lines, working hand-in-hand with her colleagues in the fight against a virus that would shake the globe. She declined the option to retire, opting instead to face forward – never wavering from her commitment to continuing the journey known as nursing.

In recognition of her integral role in the ED, please help us to reach our goal to have a memorable retirement party to commemorate the career of our beloved and respected friend, mother, sister, and nurse, Nerissa, and other staff retirees in our emergency department who have contributed by committing and dedicating themselves to our emergency department.

Donations to support Nerissa's retirement can be made here.