Name: Patti Ironstand (she/her/hers)
Job Title: Registered Psychiatric Nurse
Years of Service: 11
Worksite: Gillis House
Community: Merritt
Ancestral Territory: Nlaka’pamux and Syilx Nations
Advice to live by: Give to people what you would like to receive.
Patti Ironstand is an Aboriginal woman, originally from North Battleford, Sask., who has worked in health care since 1985, including 11 years with Interior Health. Patti has always worked with seniors, going so far as to call it her passion.
“I love working with seniors – they are the Knowledge Keepers.”
Learn more about her journey with IH
Patti with her adopted son
Patti is a hard worker, completing tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible but also not afraid to ask for help when she needs it. Patti is always up for a challenge and continues to learn new things daily.
While hard-pressed to narrow down just one achievement with IH, Patti says her move in 2021 from the mental health and substance use portfolio to long-term care was a proud moment.
“With all the hardships that they have faced, I do all that I can to ensure the seniors in my care enjoy this time in their life.”
Patti and her cat, Sparky
Patti’s dog, Bazinga
Patti made her move to B.C. in 1993, settling in Merritt five years later. Patti has five children, including one she adopted who has special needs. Patti loves spending time with her children and grandchildren, and looks forward to retirement when she can spend even more time with her family.
Patti enjoys road trips, including travelling to Seattle to watch the Toronto Blue Jays, and Vancouver to see the Canucks. She also enjoys doing yard work and small home renovations – something she’s had plenty of time to do during the pandemic.
Patti with one of her grandchildren
Patti nominates Chelsea McKenna, Unit Clerk, to keep We Are IH going:
“As a unit clerk, Chelsea is the backbone to Gillis House. She is friendly and helpful during all interactions. She works hard and is very organized.” – Patti Ironstand
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