This year, the Neil Dunsmore Power of One Award recipient is Chantelle Koeslag, Nurse Practitioner at the Minto Mapleton Family Health Team.

Chantelle was nominated for this award by one of her patients that has had ongoing struggles with mental health and suicidal ideation. Chantelle provided this client with not only excellent physical care but also went above and beyond to support this individual’s mental health. Chantelle has clearly demonstrated the power of one to make an incredible difference.

Commitment

“She didn’t try to fix it, distract me or steamroll me with the bright side. She didn’t rush me out or send me away. She simply sat on the floor with me and listened. She was the first person to truly make me feel safe in the world and that I was a valuable and worthy person. Chantelle saw the light in me that I was not able to see for myself and she never gave up on me until she was able to show me the light.” - Patient that nominated Chantelle

Leadership

“Chantelle is an outstanding professional and takes great care of her patients. She inspires all those around her with an infectious positivity and warmth. She hears the things that people don't say and has a way of understanding without words. She makes those around her feel seen. Chantelle is someone with genuinely pure intentions. She is more deserving of this award than anyone I have met.” - Patient that nominated Chantelle

Compassion

“Chantelle pulled me through countless suicidal days for a time. With phone calls, urgent or consistent appointments, and even notes of support- that I could reread during the dark nights. She spent more time with me than she should have, and I'm sure much more time behind the scenes than I realize.  She is patient, kind, and compassionate. She puts her whole heart into everything she does. She took the extra time and effort to support me in feeling safe, seen, and heard. That was all it took to begin my healing journey.”  - Patient that nominated Chantelle