Name: Lia Sambrielaz
Job Title: Long-Term Care Coordinator
Length of Service: 37 years
Worksite: Cottonwoods Care Centre
Community: Kelowna
Ancestral Territory: syilx
Favourite Quote / Advice to Live By: “Never forget the difference you've made in other people’s lives.”
Lia Sambrielaz wanted to help others from a young age. From when she was 12 years old to 17, she worked at Kelowna’s Cottonwoods Care Centre (a long-term care site) as a candy striper, an old term for young health-care volunteers who could be recognized by their red-and-white-striped uniforms.
After completing her registered nurse (RN) training at Cariboo College in Kamloops (now Thompson Rivers University), she returned to Cottonwoods and worked as an RN for 23 years. She then spent time working at Kelowna General Hospital and Brookhaven Care Centre in Kelowna before returning to Cottonwoods, which she says felt like “being back at home.”
“I have enjoyed working at Interior Health for almost 37 years,” Lia says. “I’m motivated to come to work by making a meaningful difference in others' lives. Every small act of kindness done for others does not go unnoticed.”
Learn more about Lia’s journey with IH
Lia ensures that residents’ care needs are being met every day. She acts as a liaison, communicating the needs of residents and their families to the health professionals serving them. She manages the daily clinical operations and staff supervision, and acts as a resource for staff members by providing mentoring and assisting with decision making.
She says she’s had many memorable moments during her career, including helping honour a resident’s last wish.
One of my proudest moments was honouring one of our palliative ladies by taking her swimming, one of her final requests before she passed. Many people were involved in making this happen for her. While we had her in the pool, an aquatic class was happening that she used to attend, so this had great meaning for her. Witnessing her smile was so satisfying for all parties involved.
Lia earned her gerontology certificate 10 years ago to enhance her abilities to work with older adults. She continues to pursue opportunities to build her knowledge, saying she looks forward to improving the quality of life for older adults and providing preventative care.
Outside of work, family keeps Lia busy.
“I am the proud mother of five beautiful children and two grandsons,” Lia says. “I love spending time with my family. I also love cooking and baking and sharing it with others.”
Explore long-term care Careers@IH
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