When Bonnie Nickel reflects on why she got into nursing, she says it probably began when her grandma developed Alzheimer's.

“She couldn't do the things that she would normally do for herself, so I was there to help her," says Bonnie. “She's the biggest reason why I am who I am today."

A proud member of Squamish Nation, Bonnie grew up on Quadra Island and later moved to Agassiz, where she currently resides and works as a community health nurse. From a young age, she remembers carrying around a stethoscope, always looking for ways to help people.

“My grandma kind of drew me into caring for elderly people," shares Bonnie.  She began her career in health care as a home support worker and community health representative. Reflecting on her decision to continue her education, she says, “I knew I could do more, and I wanted to do more." In 2011, she graduated as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

'Advocating for more services for our members has always been top priority for me.'

Today, Bonnie works as the Department Manager of Integrated Primary Care at Seabird Island Band Health Centre, where she oversees a team of nurses, dentists, doctors, medical office assistants, dental assistants, maternal child team members, nurse practitioner students and immunization nurses. Providing culturally safe and compassionate care is foundational to the centre's approach.

Bonnie has dedicated her career to expanding access to health services within community, including projects like the Diabetes Mobile Van. Her advocacy is rooted in a deep understanding of her community's needs, ensuring everyone's voice is heard.

“Listening is key," Bonnie says, emphasizing the power of truly hearing her patients. “People are happier when they come home from hospital because they know that the nurses in our communities care and listen- that piece is so forgotten," shares Bonnie. “You can't just tell them-, you need to listen to them. Give clients time to share. Don't rush them."

'You need to build trust to provide good care.'

Bonnie cites relationships built on trust as the foundation to developing a culturally safe environment amongst health care providers and community members. “The trust I have from members, the care I'm able to provide, the services I'm able to get for them; just being there for them to know that I'm available and I care."

With her own team, Bonnie says she believes it's important to create a safe space for people to take care of themselves and be heard. Traditional self-care practices are a staple of the monthly staff meetings. Whether it's a nature walk, a meditation practice, or sharing circle, Bonnie says, “nobody is afraid to share a piece of themselves."

'I couldn't imagine any other job than I do now.'

When talking to Bonnie, her passion for providing compassionate and meaningful care is clear. “It's fun, in a way, that your day is never the same," she reflects. For Bonnie, community care isn't just a job, it's a calling. “They're not a bed number or chart," she says, “they're an actual person. It's heartwarming. It can be hard, but the reward is so much better."

To learn more about a career in community health nursing visit the link here.