We Are IH: Emergency nurse survives cancer, supports donor drive

Diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, Joel learned his only hope for a cure was a stem cell transplant, and discovered the search for a stem cell match might take some time. About six months later, he was told he had a match, and underwent a stem cell transplant in September 2018.

Five years later in 2023—almost to the day he received his transplant—Joel met his stem cell donor in Germany. 

Joel was so inspired by his meeting that when he returned home, he began to organize a stem cell drive to raise awareness and increase the number of registered donors in Canada. In December 2023, he partnered with Canadian Blood Services to host a stem cell swabbing event at his worksite, Kelowna General Hospital. Members of the public and hospital staff turned out to support the cause. In all, 45 swab kits were collected over six hours. The drive was a chance for Joel to give back to his community and is one of his proudest moments at IH.

“More than 1,000 people in Canada are searching for a match,” he says. “If you’re between 17 and 35 years old and in good health, you can register to be a stem cell donor. Donors from different ethnic backgrounds are needed as they are better matches to those who share the same background.”

A year and a half ago, Joel moved to the emergency department, which he describes as having been a great experience. “I love making a difference and want to be able to give our patients the care that each of them deserves,” Joel shares. “When I was at my lowest, it was nice to have my nurse be able to take their time and help make me comfortable when I was in Vancouver General Hospital.” 

In his leisure time, Joel enjoys working in his yard and staying active. “I'm excited about starting to paddleboard this summer and look forward to being out on the water,” he shares. “I also love to swim. This year will be my eighth time participating in the Across the Lake Swim, a 2.1 km open water swim across Okanagan Lake.” 

He’s also looking forward to a special family trip this summer to Lac St. Anne, Alberta. “Lac St. Anne is the Métis settlement that my family is from and where my grandma grew up,” he explains. “Each year they have a pilgrimage, and my grandma doesn't miss it. I haven't been back in more than 20 years and I'm excited to go! It will be nice for all of us to return together and for my nephews to see some of their heritage.”

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