Hospital Staff Hub

18th Annual North Shore Health Care Awards

Congratulations to all of the recipients and nominees of our 18th Annual North Shore Health Care Awards.

The ceremony, which was the first in-person Health Care Awards in five years, took place on January 29 in the multi-use hall at the new Paul Myers Tower. Judy Savage, President & CEO of Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, hosted the awards show, while Jenifer Tabamo, Director, Professional Practice, Nursing and Kathy Rasmussen, Director, ED, ICU, HAU and more, presented individual awards.

We’d like to thank staff who nominated their peers and members of the awards Committee who spent many hours promoting the awards, reviewing the nominations and choosing the recipients.

Brian And Betty McManus Workplace Inspiration Award

Bahar Ahmadi

RN, Emergency Department

Despite being one of the youngest nurses in Emergency, Bahar has been described as a catalyst for change with unshakeable determination.

She has spearheaded initiatives that have enhanced comfort and efficiency for staff, improved equipment inventory, enhanced the onboarding process for newcomers and even created a new colour-coded wayfinding system for patients. Not only has she contributed to the team’s success, she inspires colleagues and patients who come into contact with her.

“Bahar’s contributions have had a direct and lasting impact on staff and patient experiences, showcasing her commitment to energizing the workplace and improving patient care.”

Congratulations Bahar on making such an impact so early in your career!

Clinical Practice award

Rosemary Hill

NSWOC Clinician, AmbulatorY

Rosemary has spent over 40 years dedicating her life to helping others and her commitment, enthusiasm, and perseverance to providing exceptional health care has left an indelible mark on LGH.

Rosemary began her nursing career in the ICU at LGH where she spent 12 years before becoming a clinician teacher in order to expand her knowledge and nursing career in wound, ostomy and continence care.

Rosemary is a recognized expert in the field and in 2024 received a national Achievement award from Ostomy Canada.

Thanks to Rosemary’s enthusiasm and conviction, the latest clinical knowledge and hands-on expertise has been shared, not just at this hospital but across Vancouver Coastal Health.

Many of the specialist nurses working in the field of wound ostomy care in the region have been influenced by Rosemary’s drive to bring the gold standards of care to all local hospitals. This has helped thousands of vulnerable patients with complex care needs have access to the latest treatment options.

“When Rosemary walks through our doors, she is in her happy place, and it shines through in the impact Rosemary has on staff, patients and their families.”

Congratulations Rosemary. Thank you for all that you do for patients and staff at LGH!

Dr. Les Janz Leadership award

Sarah Paterson

program manager, Emergency department

Sarah leads by example and motivates and encourages all team members to reach their full potential. She has supported initiative to improve patient flow, advocated for safer care protocols and introduced new standards of care that ensure the Emergency Department is better able to meet the needs of the growing number of patients that arrive at LGH.

“Sarah embodies what it is to be an inspiring leader. She recognizes individuals’ strengths and seeks to align these strengths with tasks/projects or programs that benefit the person, the unit, and the greater community.”

Sarah’s impact on the Emergency Department has been one of transformation. Her unwavering dedication, vision and aspiration to make the unit one of excellence has inspired the team, reduced staff vacancies and created a positive and welcoming culture.

Congratulations Sarah on setting such a positive example for others!

Spirit of Philanthropy

Karen Baillie

Nurse Clinician, Oncology Clinic

Karen has been an outstanding supporter for our Bigger, Better Cancer Campaign. Over the past year, she’s toured and talked to donors, attended Foundation events, given a Gala speech, and pulled on her sneakers and her fundraising hat to take part in our walkathon, Step Up for LGH. 

Most recently on Monday, she helped us launch our Med Talk program, a series of free seminars for members of the public featuring health care topics of interest. Congratulations Karen and thank you for your dedicated support.

Award Categories & Nominees

Brian & Betty McManus Workplace Inspiration Award

This award honours those who energize the workplace and who are dedicated not only to their chosen career, but also serve as a role model for those considering a career in health care. A health care workplace environment can be significantly enriched by an individual who exemplifies:

  • Professional competence;
  • A positive “can do” attitude; 
  • A willingness to generously share his or her knowledge and skills; and the motivation and commitment to “go the extra mile” for both colleagues and the people they serve.

Clinical Practice Award

Continuous improvement is key to better health outcomes and to the effective and efficient delivery of service. This award honours staff and physicians who have identified an opportunity for improvement and then acted on it. This could be in the area of clinical research, process redesign, innovative curriculum development and delivery, software development or adaptation, or the creation of a new health care program or service. The intent is to honour those who have had a systemic influence on the care and service we provide not only on the North Shore, but also on the health region as a whole or even on a provincial or national level.

Dr. Les Janz Leadership Award

Leadership is a way of being, not a job title. This award honours those who lead by example, either formally or informally. Such an individual earns the trust and respect of colleagues, sees problems as opportunities to think critically and systemically, communicates effectively, endeavours to build strong and inclusive teams, takes responsibility for his or her actions, and recognizes the contributions and talents of others. Leaders are also integral to influencing the culture of a unit or organization and have a positive effect on recruitment and retention.

Contact Us

If you would like to contact Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, please fill out the form below.

If you have a medical question, please call: (604) 988-3131.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Lions Gate Hospital Foundation

231 East 15th Street (Main Floor)
North Vancouver, BC
V7L 2L7
Phone: (604) 984-5785
Fax: (604) 984-5786
Office Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm (PST) Monday to Friday

Lions Gate Hospital

231 East 15th Street
North Vancouver, BC
V7L 2L7

Main Switchoard: (604) 988-3131
Visiting Hours: 11:00am – 8:00pm (PST) Monday to Friday