Fourth-year UM nursing student Cassie Palidwor had one of her “most memorable and eye-opening” experiences in March when she flew with a public health nurse via helicopter into the remote community of Granville Lake, Man. to assist in COVID-relief efforts.
“Granville Lake is a small community of about 24 people, most of whom had already been flown to Thompson to isolate. We went there to swab the remaining people to unsure no one was positive before bringing anyone back from Thompson,” she said.
“Talking with the people who live there is something I would suggest everyone experience one day. Hearing about the way they live and the passion they have for their community, family and lifestyle was inspiring,”
Originally from Oakbank, Man., Palidwor is a student at the University College of the North (UCN) program, which is affiliated with the College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.
Palidwor is on track to finish her senior practicum at Thompson General Hospital in July and graduate with her bachelor of nursing degree in the fall. She did the first three years of her degree in The Pas before moving to Thompson in April 2020.
“Originally, I planned on returning to Winnipeg after graduation, but over the past few years I have developed such a passion for northern Manitoba. I hope to work full time at the ER at Thompson General Hospital and then move on to more isolated positions in nursing stations in northern Manitoba,” she said.
She noted that starting her career in the middle of a pandemic is intimidating, but she is thankful to be able to contribute in a meaningful way.
“Being on the frontlines is the only place I want to be.”