Thank You!
Dear Audrey’s Place Foundation,
Thank you very much for your generous donation. Currently, I am in my first year of the Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (NP) program. Prior to starting at U of T, I obtained a BHSc degree from Western University, followed by my BScN degree. Since graduating, I have primarily practiced in the realm of cancer care, particularly on various acute inpatient units. Most recently, I pursued my love for pediatrics and transitioned to the Haematology/Oncology ward at SickKids in Toronto. As an RN, I’ve had the privilege to work with numerous outstanding NPs. Through these interactions, I recognized the value of integrating biomedical knowledge with empathic, holistic, and patient-centered care. I aspire to utilize such foundations in my own NP practice.
Working in cancer care has significantly influenced my understanding of the external determinants influencing health. As an NP, I hope to leverage my experience and passion for addressing the social inequities shaping healthcare delivery by positioning myself in the community. Working directly with vulnerable populations across the lifespan, I am interested in empowering patients and proactively tackling the root causes of illness.
As a full-time student working part-time, this donation has made a significant impact on my personal, professional, and academic life. With your support, I have been able to dedicate myself to my studies, while also furthering my education through additional conferences, work-related opportunities, and community volunteering. In particular, I have been able to continue volunteering as a special needs education tutor, a position I started roughly eight years ago and remain very passionate about.
Thank you again for your generosity and support in helping me achieve my academic and professional goals.
Sincerely,
Lauren VandenBygaart
