A local registered nurse who "always finds a way to make people smile" is the 2022 Leslie Burt-Manary RN Leadership Award recipient.
Bryce Cherry, "an incredible leader" was surrounded by his peers from the Inpatient Surgery department when the award was announced and presented.
Bryce has been an RN in Inpatient Surgery for the majority of his 18-year career says a news release from the North Bay Regional Hospital.
"He is a natural leader, always stepping forward as a mentor. He goes out of his way to provide feedback and encourages others to give their best. He is patient and is the ‘go-to’ person for both new and more experienced staff, to ask questions or for assistance when learning new skills, helping build confidence. He works with coworkers through problems and encourages them to think critically to reach their full potential."
Often the unit leader on nights and weekends, Bryce ensures all team members are comfortable on not overwhelmed, according to the release. He checks in with the team and also helps out with patient care, even when he is ‘on the desk’. He is an advocate for patients and for the unit so that it has the best possible working and collegial environment. He goes above and beyond in so many ways; taking time to answer questions thoroughly and providing positive feedback for both patients and staff.
"He is nurturing- like a big brother to many of his peers. He is their biggest team player," adds the relese.
The award honours Leslie Burt-Manary, a dedicated nurse who died of cancer in 2017. To celebrate Leslie’s life, her mother established an endowment fund, and award as a lasting legacy to celebrate nursing leadership, which provides an annual grant for professional development.
“This award is a significant part of our celebration of Nurses Week," says.Joanne Laplante, Chief Nursing Executive."It highlights the qualities of nurses, their knowledge, skills, compassion and dedication to patient care, no matter what circumstances they are facing."
“The endowment fund and bursary is a meaningful way to remember the impact Leslie had in motivating others to continue their education and aspire to become the best nurses they could be,” said Tammy Morison, President, NBRHC Foundation.
Burt-Manary was born in France in 1959, and graduated from Canadore College in North Bay as a Registered Nurse in 1979. She began working at the former Civic Hospital in 1987 and continued her career with NBRHC.
“Leslie loved being a nurse and often said, ‘It’s not just what I do, it’s who I am,.’ said her mother, Pauline Burt. "Leslie had a positive outlook on life and shared her cancer experience on social media in hopes of demystifying the journey and helping others. Her sense of humour and self-deprecating wit stayed with her throughout her illness,”
