Personal Support Workers Make a World of Difference
May 19, 2025 | Faces of HDGH
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) provide hands-on care, emotional support, and a steady presence for patients throughout their healthcare journey. At Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, PSWs are a vital part of our care teams—offering comfort, dignity, and encouragement to those who need it most.
In honour of Personal Support Worker Day on May 19, this month’s Maison Dieu Health Blog features a special Q&A with three of our own. Join us as we delve into the lives of these remarkable individuals, Lee, Horiya and Laura, exploring their journeys, insights, and the deep sense of purpose that drives their work.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to become a PSW?
Lee: I migrated from Trinidad and Tobago in 2016 with my husband and eldest son. We decided it would be best for me to stay at home with the kids initially, especially with no extended family around. When my youngest son started school in 2020—right in the midst of COVID—I enrolled in the government’s six-month PSW program. I’m a social person and love interacting with others, so it was the perfect opportunity to give back and support people when they needed it most.
Horiya: I was a nurse in my home country, but when I moved to Canada, I focused on supporting my husband’s goals and raising our six kids. Healthcare has always been my passion, and becoming a PSW was a great way to reconnect with it while still having time for my family.
Laura: My name is Laura Miller. I’m the daughter of a former HDGH RPN, and I grew up surrounded by nurses and healthcare aides—many of my aunts and cousins work in the field. At 15, I became one of my grandparents’ primary caregivers before their move to a nursing home. That experience showed me how meaningful it is to connect with and support others in maintaining their independence.
How long have you been working as a PSW, and what has your journey been like?
Lee: I started working as a PSW in 2021. It’s been an incredible journey filled with growth and learning. I began in long-term care at Schlegel Village at St. Clair and eventually moved to HDGH.
Horiya: I’ve been a PSW for almost a year now. I started with a student placement on 2 South and was later hired as a temporary part-time staff member. I’ve worked in multiple units and have gained valuable experience across the hospital. It’s been a rewarding and educational journey.
Laura: I graduated from St. Clair College and this year marks 22 years as a PSW. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s definitely been rewarding. It’s a career filled with purpose.
What does a typical day look like for you as a PSW?
Lee: My day starts with helping patients with their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), which can include showers and providing support with meals or mobility. I also assist nurses whenever needed.
Horiya: I help patients with tasks they can't do themselves, like bed baths, showers, feeding, toileting, transferring, and monitoring vitals. But we also provide emotional support. While we help, we talk and listen to them. Sometimes we become like friends - someone they can talk to and trust.
Laura: On 2 South, no two days are the same. I assist with ADLs, porter patients to X-rays, and sometimes accompany them off campus for appointments. It’s fast-paced and fulfilling.
Can you share a memorable experience or moment that made you feel proud of your work?
Lee: One of my proudest moments was receiving an envelope from my manager with a nomination from my co-workers for Rookie of the Year. I didn’t win, but the fact they thought of me meant everything. It told me I was working efficiently and making a difference.
Horiya: When patients pray for me after I care for them—that’s the most memorable and fulfilling part of my job. Whether it’s a shower, bed bath, or anything they need, they truly appreciate it, and I can feel their gratitude. It means so much to me because I give my care from the heart. When they’re happy, it makes me even happier.
Laura: I’ve formed strong connections with many long-term patients. They become like close friends—we share stories and laughter like old pals. That connection is incredibly rewarding.
What do you find most rewarding about being a PSW?
Lee: Helping people—whether they’re my patients or co-workers—is what is most rewarding. Helping someone get through their day easily, makes a great shift for me.
Horiya: The most rewarding part of being a PSW is seeing my patients happy and knowing I made a difference in their day. When they feel comfortable,clean and cared for—and even pray for me—it makes me feel proud and appreciated.
Laura: What I love best about my role as a PSW is that I get to make connections with our patients and assist them on their journey back home. Our long-term patients have a special place in my heart and I view them as a close friend. We often joke and share stories with each other like old friends and to me that is the most rewarding part of my day.
Caring with Purpose, Every Day
Lee, Horiya and Laura, remind us that PSWs are not only caregivers, but also listeners, motivators, and trusted partners in a patient’s journey. Their dedication, empathy, and quiet strength make a meaningful difference every single day.
On this PSW Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all Personal Support Workers at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. Your compassion and commitment continue to shape the lives of those we serve—and we are grateful for all that you do.