Rosemary Hill: Recipient of the NSWOC Recognition Award for 2024

On behalf of the Ostomy Canada Society Awards Committee, I am honoured to announce that the winner of the 2024 NSWOC Recognition Award is Rosemary Hill of North Vancouver, British Columbia.

This award is presented to a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) who has made an outstanding contribution to supporting ostomy patients through their involvement with local Chapters, Support Groups, and national activities. Rosemary’s dedication and commitment have made her an exemplary choice for this year’s award.

The award was presented during the 2024 Ostomy Canada Society Annual General Meeting on September 13, 2024.

Rosemary has been a cornerstone of ostomy care at Lions Gate Hospital since 1985, starting her career in the ICU and transitioning into her role as a certified NSWOC for the past 20 years. In this role, she provides critical education and care to patients throughout their ostomy journey, both pre-operatively and post-operatively. Her leadership in maintaining the ostomy outpatient clinic, despite challenges, has ensured that countless patients continue to receive the vital care they need after discharge. Through this clinic, she not only assists with practical care but also encourages patients to connect with local ostomy support groups, fostering a strong community for those living with an ostomy.

Rosemary’s influence extends beyond direct patient care. As a former president of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) from 2016 to 2018, she has been a powerful advocate for ensuring that every person with an ostomy has access to a specialized nurse. In addition to her work at the hospital, she chairs the BC Provincial Nursing Ostomy Committee, developing guidelines and procedures that enhance the quality of nursing care in acute, community, and long-term settings. Her commitment to education is also evident through her organization of free, day-long patient education sessions for the Vancouver and Lower Mainland community, bringing together patients, experts, and vendors to build awareness and support.

Rosemary’s work also spans national and international platforms, as she regularly presents at the Canadian Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence (NSWOCC) and United States’ Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing Society (WOCN) conferences, where she shares her expertise on ostomy care. Additionally, she is a frequent guest speaker at the Vancouver Chapter’s local meetings, always eager to share her knowledge and support with members.

Rosemary’s lifelong promotion of ostomy care through her clinical work, advocacy, and volunteerism at local, regional, and national levels has made her a truly deserving recipient of this award. Her dedication to patients, peers, and the community has had a lasting impact, and we are thrilled to celebrate her remarkable achievements.

Congratulations to Rosemary Hill and thank you for your years of tireless service and advocacy for ostomy care.

The post Rosemary Hill: Recipient of the NSWOC Recognition Award for 2024 first appeared on Ostomy Canada Society.