Alumni: In Conversation

Nursing alum unveils soul of the profession

Reminiscing about her childhood, Linda Glasier fondly recalls a photograph cherished by her parents. Captured in it was her five-year-old self; adorned in a nurse’s hat, tightly clutching a miniature medical kit equipped with a toy stethoscope and syringes – a foreshadowing of the path that would unfold.

For Glasier, there was never a question of what she would do, she felt destined to be in the healthcare profession.

“I think it comes from my English background and the fact that my grandmother was a midwife too,” says Glasier. “We also had animals on the farm, so I looked after them. I never questioned if there was going to be anything else – this was always what I was going to do.”

Glasier exudes a warm, friendly, and caring presence. Characteristics that have continued to contribute to her success within the healthcare industry and beyond.

Looking back on her days at MHC in the 1970s, Glasier recalls a positive experience. She felt welcomed, optimistic but also sensed a responsibility to lead by example.

“There were expectations on us when we enrolled in the program. It was good, we were the example of what the future of nursing and the program were going to be. That meant a lot and provided the foundation for a wonderful career.”

Her time at the post-secondary institution also provided lifelong connections that she continues to cherish.

“We had a shared experience, we went through the program together, worked hard, and saw each other at work after graduation. It’s not an easy career but it’s very fulfilling. Because you are exposed to so much, you create a bond that will always be there. They will always have a special place in my heart.”

Following graduation, the Medicine Hat resident gained experience in a variety of units, each helping to build her repertoire of skills. Starting as a float – a versatile role she viewed as a “base camp” for diverse specialties – Glasier transitioned to the emergency unit, attributing it to honing her assessment and critical thinking skills. Later, she ventured into management, developing the day surgery program in Medicine Hat. Post-parenthood, she shifted from 24/7 on-call responsibilities to focus on working the unit for balance.

Following her visit to MHC, she feels learners today benefit from the digitized learning environment, innovation available, and ample learning spaces. However, she hopes they remain complementary tools to what truly matters - nursing intuition and personal patient care.

“Human beings are interesting creatures. Everyone has a story and although it takes time to sit and listen, it can have an influence. While you are doing your physical assessment on a patient, you can hear a bit about their life, understand how they may have gotten to where they are,” says Glasier.

For her, it can be the difference to catching an integral diagnosis or providing patients an advocate to influence their healing. Her deep understanding of the human experience and commitment to personable care has left a legacy with many. Patients in the community still express gratitude for her role in their care and recovery.

As a dedicated community volunteer, she continues to contribute her time to various organizations, showcasing her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Her parting words for the next generation of nurses serves as a guide, encouraging them to approach each patient and situation with humility and an open heart, while acknowledging the impactful role they can play in the lives of those they serve.

“Never assume you know everything about a person or a situation. Remain open to the views of others, whether it’s your patient or colleague. You are making a bigger difference in the lives of others than you may realize.”