Volunteer Profile - Crystal McLeod
Tell us about yourself
Hi! My name is Crystal and I am a first-year medical student at the Northern Medical Program. However, I am a bit far from what you may think of as a ‘typical’ first-year student. With about 15 years of healthcare experience behind me, I am definitely a ‘seasoned’ healthcare professional and the road to get here has been winding to say the least! I started in healthcare as a housekeeper; primarily assigned to the ‘bed pager’ shift (required to clean beds ‘on-demand’, following the doctors as they made discharges). I found housekeeping hard work but loved the hospital setting and found the wide variety of floors thrilling. In time, I slowly progressed into other healthcare roles like personal support worker, registered nurse, and operations manager. Undoubtedly, working bedside in pediatric and neonatal intensive care were my favourite roles! (I mean…so far!) Although, I must say an ‘old dog’ can learn a new trick, as this school year has brought at lot of different, but exciting challenges. I moved across the country to a city I had never been to before, been trying to camp/ hike with more frequency, and currently find myself wading through the great divide that is provincial health programs.
How did you become involved in the Reading Bear Society?
In working with critically ill children and infants, one can easily lose track of what is a typical ‘childhood’ experience for most kids. This year, I made it my goal to engage with a few different organizations that would allow me to connect with children in a community (over hospital) setting. I currently lead a Girl Guides group (Sparks), volunteer with a youth mentorship program, and enjoy classroom visits with RBS!
What is your current role with the RBS?
I am currently the co-chair of the RBS Prince George Chapter with the wonderful Carmen Huang.
What is your best memory of RBS?
During a Dr. Bear visit, a student asked if I was a teenager! I of course promptly told him, “yes!”
What is your favourite caffeinated beverage?
Coffee with lots of 2% milk! Cinnamon if I’m feeling fancy ;)
