Congratulations to Teresa McFadyen, LPN, who received the Association of Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of BC (NNPBC) Excellence in Nursing Advocacy Award on December 14, 2023.
Teresa fulfilled her dream of becoming a nurse later in life. She excelled academically and earned a place on the Dean’s Honour Roll at Camosun College, a testament to her dedication and passion for nursing.
She joined Victoria Hospice as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in 2008. In addition to providing exceptional, evidence-based care, Teresa is dedicated to fostering a culture of respect and collegiality, and to advocating for patients, families, and the nursing profession.
“I witness outstanding compassionate patient-centered care when I work alongside Teresa,” says fellow Hospice LPN Sandi Ogloff, who joined Teresa at the awards ceremony last week.
“She is generous with knowledge sharing and approachable. She always informs us of new educational opportunities and legislation that effects our ever-changing practices, and she has dedicated countless hours to mentoring new nurses. Teresa is an example to us all.”
Teresa is committed to continuous professional development and empowers other LPNs – at Victoria Hospice and across the province – to grow and develop within the profession. She is actively involved in LPN advocacy through the BC Nurses Union and through Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of BC.
She brought the Transitional Butterfly Heart project to Victoria Hospice this year. Co-created with Unit Counsellor Brid Shine, the practice signals changes in patient conditions, fostering a calm and centered atmosphere for patients and families. She also initiated the display of art by Indigenous artist sɬə́məxʷ Rain Pierre, to signify the importance of culturally safe care. She consistently supports fundraising initiatives, like Hike for Hospice (through which her team has raised a total of more than $12,000), has modelled at Victoria Hospice Fashion for Compassion fundraiser, and has been a passionate spokesperson for Hospice with local media.
“Teresa is deeply committed to enhancing the patient experience,” says Teri Henderson, Victoria Hospice CEO. “She forges meaningful connections with clients, colleagues, and the wider community as a champion for end-of-life care. Please join me in congratulating Teresa on this richly deserved award.”
Teresa joins fellow Hospice LPN Adrienne Rogers in honours from the NNPBC, who received the Excellence in Nursing Practice Award in 2020. This year’s NNPBC Nursing Awards of Excellence recognized 17 nursing professionals representing all four nursing designations in BC (Licensed Practical Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nurse, and Registered Psychiatric Nurse), who demonstrate excellence in practice, research, advocacy, administration, education, planetary health, leadership, and lifetime achievement.