Name: Emily Davidson (she/her/hers)
Job Title: Licensed Practical Nurse
Length of Service: 9
Worksite: Kelowna General Hospital
Community: Kelowna
Ancestral Territory: syilx
For nearly a decade, Emily Davidson has called the syilx ancestral territory—also known as Kelowna—home. She acknowledges the importance of living and working on this land with humility and respect.
“To me, reconciliation means acknowledging atrocities done to the First Nations Peoples,” she says. “It means checking my own bias when assessing a patient or speaking with their families. It’s about choosing to actively be a part in deconstructing colonialist ideals and becoming humbled by learning about ancestral knowledge, languages and practices. We have so far to go, and so much to learn.”
For the past six years, Emily has been caring for patients as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Kelowna General Hospital, where she remains a steady presence on Ward 3 East.
"I have been on the same ward for six years and have no plans to leave,” she says. "Consistency and routine help me focus on giving the best care I can, even with the variables in health care."
Learn more about Emily’s journey with IH
Emily's journey in health care started when she became a health-care assistant. Inspired by her mother-in-law, she decided to pursue a nursing diploma.
“Listening to her stories—her passion for nursing and her ability to help others inspired me to become a nurse.”
Today, Emily finds purpose in every moment she shares with her patients.
I am continually reminded of my why when I have the privilege of witnessing my patients experience the highest highs, and the lowest depths of human capability. I am inspired by the resilience of patients, their families and my co-workers.
While nursing can be emotionally demanding, Emily says she finds a great deal of meaning in providing comfort. "Whether it is a simple laugh or a moment of belonging to my patients, I am motivated by the feeling of connection—especially with those who have barriers to connection."
Emily's proudest moment came when a patient who had undergone months of critical interventions and intensive nursing care on 3 East returned to the ward in good health to thank the team: "It felt very full circle—knowing that he appreciated us as much as we appreciated his pleasant manner. Seeing him finally well brought me to tears."
Outside of work, Emily enjoys immersing herself in home decor DIY projects or going thrifting. One of her favourite things to do is take her boys, Ben, 5 and Nate, 3, to the beautiful parks in the Okanagan.
When asked what inclusion, belonging and accessibility mean to her, Emily says: “It means ensuring that everyone feels valuable, respected and capable of getting what they need to thrive.”
With such deep compassion and care for her patients and a strong sense of purpose, it's no surprise that Emily will be continuing her professional growth. "I’m pursuing my lactation consultant education this fall so I can provide care and attention to babies and mothers on their feeding journeys."
Explore Nursing Careers@IH
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