Graduating from Mohawk College in 1989 as a Medical Radiological Technologist, Charlene wanted to be part of helping people in need along their care journey. When a part-time technologist opportunity became available at HHCC she jumped at the chance and has never looked back. This October marks her 30th Anniversary with us.
“When I was a part-time technologist, I also worked at Collingwood General and Marine Hospital which is 16 km from my home,” recalled Charlene.
In 2001, Charlene accepted a full-time position with the hospital and over the years has continued to move up into different positions. In 2014, Charlene became the Manager of Diagnostic Imaging, a role she continues to fill with passion, kindness, teamwork and courage today.
“I chose to leave my position in Collingwood because I wanted to remain part of the HHCC team. I drive an extra 50 minutes each morning and afternoon because of the sense of family I feel here,” she said.
For Charlene, the most impactful moment over the years was when she brought her father into the hospital. He was having trouble breathing and wound up being transferred to Southlake Regional Health Centre for open heart surgery.
“It was a trying time. Seeing the team here genuinely care for both of us with such empathy and compassion is something I will never forget and will always be grateful for,” recalled Charlene.
Charlene’s father was born here at HHCC 77 years ago, he has since recovered from his open-heart surgery and his health today is very well.
“I have a great team. Even though HHCC has grown and grown over the years we still have the family vibe within the department,” she said.
Charlene has worked alongside two of her colleagues, Cathy and Linda, for close to three decades; they have shared the journey both professionally and personally together. This sense of family and connectedness has kept her devoted to our hospital over the years - something we certainly are the richer for.
Thank you, Charlene, for being a #HeadwatersHero!
Photo caption: Charlene (second to the right) with her team.