06/19/2026
Grateful Heart Spotlight 💚
Today we are recognizing an incredible nursing student here at BRH, Hailey Willfang 👏
Here is what the donor had to say:
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude and recognition for Hailey Willfang and the incredible care she provided during my recent Emergency Department visit. I came to the ER experiencing severe abdominal and pelvic pain, which was later found to be caused by two hemorrhagic ovarian cysts in addition to my history of endometriosis. It was an incredibly difficult and vulnerable time, and Hailey’s compassion, empathy, and kindness made a profound difference in my experience. What stood out most was how genuinely caring she was. She consistently checked in on me, made sure I was as comfortable as possible, and never made me feel like just another patient. She brought me warm blankets throughout my stay, knowing they helped ease some of the pain and discomfort I was experiencing. While those blankets may seem like a small gesture, they meant so much in that moment and reflected the thoughtfulness and compassion she brings to patient care. As a woman dealing with complex gynecological pain, I felt truly heard and validated by Hailey. She is a remarkable advocate for women’s health and treated me with dignity, understanding, and respect. In a healthcare system where women can sometimes feel dismissed, her willingness to listen, acknowledge my pain, and show genuine concern was incredibly meaningful. Most importantly, Hailey made me feel human again. When I was exhausted, scared, and hurting, her kindness and reassurance helped me feel seen, cared for, and supported. The clinical care I received was important, but the compassion she showed is what I will remember long after this experience. I would also like to recognize that Hailey is still a student. The level of professionalism, empathy, maturity, and patient-centered care she demonstrated was truly exceptional. She has already developed the qualities that make an outstanding healthcare professional, and I have no doubt she will have a tremendous impact on the lives of countless patients throughout her career. Please extend my heartfelt thanks to Hailey. She is an exceptional future nurse and a tremendous asset to your Emergency Department team. Patients are fortunate to have someone with her level of skill, compassion, and dedication caring for them, and I am deeply grateful for the difference she made during one of my most difficult days."
- Jordan Ayres
As part of the Grateful Hearts Program, Hailey received a custom pin and certificate featuring this heartfelt message, along with a donation made in her name. ✨
💙Learn more or make your own tribute: grateful.brhfoundation.ca
Left to Right: Mark Pearce (BRH Manager), Cassandra James (BRHF Executive Director), Chanda Taillon (BRH Registered Nurse), Hailey with her tribute, Katie Lavergne (BRHF Administrative Assistant)
