News

As Manager, Professional Practice and Education, Angela Burke is required to think both strategically and practically. Driven by a desire to create systems and environments where people can thrive, she thought the BCHS Emerging Leaders Program would be a good opportunity to step back, reflect, and learn alongside others with similar goals.

At BCHS, we’re committed to reintegrating geriatric patients back into the community through coordinated, patient-centered care.

Born in Oakville and raised in a Czech-Canadian family, Dr. Kalina Samji grew up at the intersection of multiple cultures and identities. “I’m gay. I’m the child of a refugee. And I’ve worked in institutions where that wasn’t always safe to say out loud,” he shares. “Those experiences shape how I lead. I can’t untangle them from the work.”

If you’ve ever felt calmer walking into Brantford General Hospital, you might have Rod Lewis to thank. At 80 years young, he’s a beacon of kindness within our halls. From easing nerves to inspiring others to volunteer—Rod Lewis is proof that kindness never retires.

In 2022, BCHS introduced the Indigenous health service (IHS).  This includes a full-time Indigenous patient navigator, who helps Indigenous patients through the western healthcare system and assists with community and in-house resources.

For Cindy, home has never just been a location – it’s a feeling shaped by culture, food, language, love, and faith, all interwoven into everyday life. Recognizing the importance of seeing yourself reflected in your workplace and in your community, Cindy is sharing her story with the hopes of fostering a culture of belonging around her.

For the June 2025 Chief of Staff Feature, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Megan Cassidy, a first-year resident in Family Medicine at the Brantford Indigenous Health Hub program here at BCHS.

What started as a regular Canadian Friday night watching hockey, turned into a life-changing moment for Brantford resident David Young. A strange chest pain for a short moment, became double vision, sweating, and weakness just a couple days later.

Her journey is one of discovery – where identity isn’t solely defined by where we come from, but also the choices we make, the values we uphold, and the connections we nurture throughout life. “The fact that I am willing to open up and share this part of my story is a testament to the culture that is being built at BCHS and my desire to be a part of something greater.”

Indigenous nurses are essential to providing culturally safe, respectful, and responsive care. They bring a deep understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems, foster belonging, and ensure care reflects the unique needs of Indigenous communities.