NS Healthcare Hero: Leona Wilneff

“I am writing to nominate my dear friend and colleague, Leona Wilneff. Leona is a Registered Nurse, currently working as a Responsive Behaviour Consultant for Continuing Care in the Eastern Zone.

I have had the privilege of learning with Leona at StFX University 25 years ago, and working with her for many of those years. Her compassion, knowledge and leadership have benefited clients, colleagues and students. She began her career working with palliative care patients and families, and then with residents and families in the long-term care setting. In her current role, she helps to teach care providers how to best approach providing care for some of our most vulnerable seniors; those with dementia. She helps other providers to see the person behind the dementia, and to recognize the meaning behind their behaviour. These patients are at risk of being labeled as difficult or uncooperative, and through Leona’s efforts they can be recognized as the people they once were, and the importance of treating this person with dignity and respect.

Thank you to AA Munro for this generous initiative, and for considering this nomination of a wonderful nurse.”

• This nomination was sent in by Heather Brander