Nurses win honourable awards at Orillia’s Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital

Kimm Johnston was presented the Nightingale award at Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital during Nursing Week. Thu., May 15, 2025. Submitted.

“When she sweeps into a room she is like fresh air.”

It was a sincere comment like that – from an 86-day patient – that won nurse Kimm Johnston the 2025 Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH) Nightingale Award

Johnston, a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), found out about her win during an online town hall at Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital celebrating Nursing Week.

“I’m truly honoured and grateful,” said Johnston. “Being a nurse is something I love deeply. You always aim to make a difference in your patients’ lives, and being recognized for that—it’s a powerful reminder of why I do what I do. It’s incredibly humbling.”

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While she might be humbled by the award, her nomination letters speaks to her humanity.

“In my mind, she embodies both the art and the science of nursing. I think of the science of nursing as what is known and measurable through evidence-based inquiry. The artistry, though equally important, is less technical, more interpersonal, intuitive, and subjective. I see it as the humanity of nursing.”

“If you do not know Kimm personally, you must realize that when she sweeps into a room she is like fresh air. She is funny, humble, and not afraid to display quirkiness or vulnerability. Her gift as a nurse is immediately evident. For example, she is kind and compassionate - a master at interpersonal connection. There is grace in her practice. She listens intently and empathetically. It’s impossible to feel unimportant in her presence. As a patient, I sensed relatively quickly that I mattered and that I could trust her.”

The OSMH Nightingale Award recognizes a nurse whose work positively affected the lives of patients.

The award is named after nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale whose legacy of compassion, commitment to patients and thoughtful nursing leadership is still inspiring today’s nurses.

OSMH has also developed five Peer Recognition Awards to honour nurses’ ongoing dedication and commitment.

2025 – OSMH Peer Recognition Award Winners

Heart of Gold –Michelle Hughes, RN

• A nurse who has demonstrated compassion in all avenues with patients, families and peers.

Coach of the Year –Kim Gibson, RN

• A resourceful nurse who has provided coaching and mentoring to their peers.

Just for Laughs –Leah Nichols, RN

• A nurse who demonstrates positivity and humor with patients, families and peers.

Rookie of the Year –Paige Fulton, RPN

• A new hire – or new grad – who demonstrates outstanding nursing skills or most improved during their first year

PSW of the Year –Elissa Bennett, PSW

• A personal support worker, who shows outstanding skill, compassion, courage, trust and teamwork.