Meet Mary Grace Reyes, Registered Nurse at Michael Garron Hospital  

Tell us about yourself!  

My name is Mary Grace Reyes, and I’m a Registered Nurse (RN) in Michael Garron Hospital (MGH)’s Surgery Inpatient Unit. I’ve worked at MGH since 2022.  

What motivated you to join MGH?  

I’m an internationally educated nurse with nearly 15 years of experience in the nursing profession. I came to Canada in 2021 during the pandemic as an international student. During that time, I pursued my Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) license, as I wanted to return to bedside nursing. I was particularly drawn to MGH l because of its strong focus on patient-centered care, clinical excellence and professional development. I also believe in treating patients with empathy and cultural sensitivity, and I see MGH as a place where that approach is not only encouraged but embedded in its culture – especially within the Surgery Inpatient Unit, where I can apply my skills and grow in a dynamic and supportive environment.  

What types of learning, mentorship or professional development opportunities have you had the opportunity to pursue since joining MGH?   

Before joining MGH, I relied on the skillsets I had developed back home. And in healthcare, adjusting to the “Canadian way” of doing things can be a challenge. But since joining MGH, I've had the privilege of being mentored by exceptional nurses who helped me adapt and gain valuable Canadian nursing experience.  

Here are some of the learning experiences I’ve had since joining MGH:  

• Participated in unit-based trainings that helped me understand clinical protocols and specific MGH/Canadian protocols.  
• Worked closely with experienced colleagues and preceptors who guided me through best practices and helped me gain confidence in my clinical judgement.  
• Attended professional development sessions offered by hospitals, such as a dementia research education program, which enhanced my understanding of dementia care.   
• Attended the Canadian Orthopaedic Nurses Association (CONA) Toronto Chapter Conference, where I learned about the latest advancements in orthopaedic nursing.   
• More recently, I've taken on leadership roles as a charge nurse and preceptor, allowing me to support and guide students and new staff.  
• I’ve also taken the initiative to seek feedback and use it constructively to improve my performance.  

These experiences have helped me bridge the gap between where I started and where I am now. I feel more integrated into the Canadian healthcare system and more confident in delivering safe, effective patient care. 

Can you share your career path at MGH?  

2022: In November 2022, after obtaining an RPN license, I was actively searching for a position that aligned with my surgery-orthopaedic background. I was grateful to be given the opportunity by my manager, Val, who believed in my potential and hired me as a full-time RPN in the Surgery Inpatient Unit at MGH despite not having prior Canadian work experience.   

2023: In March, I successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination and obtained my RN license. I was fortunate to be retained within the Surgery Inpatient Unit as an RN.  

2024 to present: I have taken on additional leadership roles, including precepting students and new staff, and serving as a charge nurse, further strengthening my clinical and leadership skills within the unit. Looking ahead, I am planning to enroll in a wound care nursing program to deepen my knowledge and further enhance the quality of care given to our patients.   

What motivates or inspires you?  

Being of Filipino descent, I was raised with strong values of compassion, respect and service to others, which have become the foundation of my nursing practice. I believe that without genuine passion and empathy, it's difficult to truly thrive in this career. My background has shaped who I am and fuels my passion for nursing. I've seen firsthand how deeply care and compassion can impact someone's life. And that inspires me to give my best every day. One principle I live by is, “Do unto others what you want done unto you.” This guides how I treat every patient – with dignity and empathy. I believe that every person deserves the kind of care I would want for myself or my loved ones.  

I'm also inspired by the team I work with. We treat each other with mutual respect and support, creating a safe and positive work environment. This culture of collaboration and excellence pushes me to continually strive for the highest standards of patient care.  

If you could share one memorable moment from your time at MGH, what stands out to you? 

One of my most memorable times at MGH was receiving heartfelt feedback from a patient and their family. They felt so impacted by the care I provided that they took the time to email my manager and supervisor. I was called to my supervisor's office in the middle of my shift, and at first, I was a bit nervous, unsure of what it could be about. But to my surprise, my manager shared the message with me. It was emotional and deeply affirming. Knowing I had touched someone's life in such a meaningful way reinforced the importance of presence and human connection in patient care. And it's a moment I continue to carry with me.   

Another highlight has been the relationships I've built with my coworkers. Over time, some of them have become more than just colleagues – they’ve become my “work besties.” Even the most trying days have been much easier and more pleasurable knowing I have a support network.