Community & Culture

We are IH: Patients’ gratitude motivates Support Services manager

Xavier enjoys a perfect summer day on the lake, soaking in the sunshine, fresh air and peaceful vibes.

Name: Xavier Gomes (he/him/his)
Job Title: Manager, Support Services, East Kootenay
Length of Service: 4 years
Worksite:  East Kootenay Regional Hospital
Community: Cranbrook
Ancestral Territory: Ktunaxa
Favourite Quote / Advice to Live By: "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." 

Xavier is inspired to work in health care because it affords him the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. “My mission is to support healing and recovery by ensuring access to nourishing food and proper nutrition, while promoting clean, safe environments that foster health, dignity and well-being for every patient and staff member I serve,” he shares. 

He’s motivated every day by patients’ gratitude and the positive impact he has on their lives. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my efforts contribute to their comfort and recovery during a time when they need it most,” Xavier says.
 

Learn more about Xavier’s journey with IH

Xavier is the department head for both the Dietary and Environmental Services departments that service East Kootenay Regional Hospital (EKRH), Dr. F. W. Green Memorial Home, Rocky Mountain Care Village, Cranbrook Health Centre, Creston Valley Hospital & Health Centre and Swan Valley Lodge.

“I pursued this career because I’ve always been passionate about health, wellness and sustainability,” explains Xaiver. “The importance of food and a well-maintained environment for health is profound.”

A person wearing a blue plaid shirt with sleeves rolled up leans on a table on an outdoor patio.
Xavier enjoying some time off in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), soaking in the charm of the historic heart of the city.

A typical day for him starts with a team briefing to set priorities followed by a walk through the facilities to ensure cleanliness and dietary services are up to standard. He strives to make everyone feel supported and has the tools for their roles.

“I focus on maintaining a safe workplace for all team members and try to think outside the box to keep my team positively charged so they can excel in their roles.”

Xavier believes that fostering inclusion, belonging and accessibility creates an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to fully participate. By embracing diversity, amplifying every voice, and ensuring equal opportunities for all, he strives to build a community where everyone has the chance to thrive.

“I focus on continuous improvement and fostering a supportive atmosphere. By prioritizing patient care and team well-being, I strive to enhance our services and maintain a positive, collaborative workplace.”

-- Xavier Gomes

A highlight of Xavier’s career has been cultivating a strong, high-performing team.

Through his leadership and mentorship, key team members have grown into pillars of support, achieving remarkable success and exemplifying his commitment to collective growth and development.
This past spring marked a significant milestone for both the Food Services and Environmental Services teams.

“The Food Services team led an exceptional launch of the new Patient Choice Meal Services (PCMS) system, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the East Kootenay region,” says Xavier. “Their success was driven by thoughtful planning, comprehensive education, and seamless implementation.”

He continues, “the Environmental Services team at EKRH demonstrated outstanding resilience and collaboration during a period of meaningful operational change. As we realigned job duties to better reflect workflow and service needs, their valuable input and steadfast support ensured the transition was smooth, effective and inclusive.

“I’m incredibly proud of how both teams rose to the occasion. Their dedication and teamwork truly exemplify what it means to work with purpose, unity and a shared commitment to excellence.”

Xavier credits mentors and colleagues who helped create opportunities for him to develop his skills and build his confidence. “Others patiently guided me through challenges, offering their wisdom and advice, and ensuring I didn’t lose sight of my goals. Their selflessness—whether through words of encouragement or tangible acts of support—has made a lasting impact, not only on my professional achievements but on my personal growth as well.” 

“Looking back at my journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the many individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping my career. From mentors who offered invaluable guidance, to colleagues who supported me in times of uncertainty, I have been fortunate to have people who believed in me and invested in my growth. Each of these individuals helped to carve the path that has brought me to where I am today.”

-- Xavier Gomes

When asked what reconciliation means to him, Xavier looks both inward and outward. “To me, reconciliation means the process of healing and rebuilding relationships, whether with others or within myself. It requires vulnerability, patience and a willingness to let go of past grievances to move forward with mutual respect and trust. Ultimately, reconciliation isn’t just about making peace with others—it’s also about restoring inner harmony and peace.”

Outside of work, Xavier enjoys documentaries about world events and playing with his dogs, Ares and Nelly. He loves to travel to learn about different ways of life, history and food cultures. “It’s interesting to me how nutrition plays a role in health across the world. It’s something that’s really shaped my perspective on global wellness,” adds Xavier.

Two light brown and white dogs lie panting on grass full of dandelions.
Xavier’s two dogs—Ares, in front, is two years old, and Nelly is four. Ares and Nelly are always by Xavier’s side and are full of personality.

It may come as no surprise that Xavier has a deep love for cooking. “I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and trying out different cuisines in my free time—it’s a creative outlet for me."
 

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