Tell us a little about yourself!

I have a long history with Humber – have been on staff at the Foundation since 2006!

During this time, I have fostered many friendships, created strong community partnerships, worked with our very generous donors, been witness to many positive patient stories and experiences, and have had the privilege to work with many of our physicians and staff who make Humber’s patients their #1 priority.

Outside from my work, I am a Humber baby, my husband and our two children are Humber babies, and all of our physicians are associated with Humber. We all share the same paediatrician! Humber River Hospital is our home. We turn to Humber in our times of need. My passion for Humber is immense.

“I was very inspired by my grandfather’s experience at Humber’s legacy sites. The care he received was outstanding, but at the time there was a lack of equipment, space and resources that I will never forget,” says Daniela. “Now, Humber is on its way to becoming a leader in Seniors Care, which will fill the gaps that our senior population may have faced years ago.”

How would you explain your job to a friend?

My job is a chance to work hard at work worth doing; supporting my hospital through the support of our generous donors who were inspired by the care that they or their loved ones received.

I have the opportunity to share the Humber story and make new friends – who transpire into donors.

Is there a Program of Care you have a personal connection to?

It would have to be the Healthy Living Program (Seniors Care). I have a soft spot for seniors. I was very inspired by my grandfather’s experience at Humber’s legacy sites. The care he received was outstanding, but at the time there was a lack of equipment, space and resources that I will never forget. Now, Humber is on its way to becoming a leader in Seniors Care, which will fill the gaps that our senior population may have faced years ago.

What are the three most interesting pieces of technology at Humber?

1. RFID security tags newborns: After delivering our daughter at the new site, we knew this piece of technology would keep our most precious gift safe. I recall the first time I was on the Maternal Child floor and the elevators were suspended for the simple reason that this tag was not removed from a baby’s ankle.
2. Pepper: When our nephew was born early last year, our family came to Humber. Pepper was the first person our eldest daughter noticed as we took the turn towards the central elevators.  She was super excited to see someone her size interact with her and speak to her… Pepper even helped her find her way to her new cousin!
3. Automated guided vehicles: As we tour our donors and prospective donors through our facility, they all find this to be a neat piece of technology and get excited to watch our AGV’s as they work behind the scenes helping deliver food, linens and medication orders to the patient floors – they even call the elevator. Do not get in their way (just kidding, they stop nicely for people)!
   

   At Humber, RFID security tags help keep newborns safe. “The first time I was on Maternal Child floor, the elevators were suspended because this tag was not removed from a baby’s ankle,” says Daniela.

Do you have a favourite project?

Our Grateful Patient Program! The Foundation continues to work alongside our very talented physicians and staff to encourage their patients to show their gratitude with a gift in support of their Program of Care here at Humber. Through the Foundation, grateful patients can give towards a specific piece of equipment or project needed within the department to better the health of our patients and community.

What is one awesome thing you’ve done in the last year? 

We delivered our second child at Humber. A year ago (exactly), we welcomed our newest member to the family. The same OBGYN who delivered me, delivered both my children…a very special opportunity!

To this day, I am grateful for the exemplary care we received. From the nurse at the registration desk on the 4^th floor right to the familiar faces in the labour and delivery room, I felt comforted knowing I was surrounded by a very skilled and experienced team who were ready to go!

What inspires you?

My fellow colleagues, our physicians, front line staff and hospital volunteers – who everyday display their compassion for their work and to our patients and their families.

I am excited to do what I’m doing every day.