On Saturday, Sept. 30, Pam Murphy will officially retire from her position as Director of Care (DOC) at Fairview Manor (FVM). This will mark the end of a work career that has spanned more than 40 years, including 12 years overseeing resident care at FVM.
Throughout Pam’s time at FVM, her work philosophy has focused on the delicate balancing act between caring for the residents, which she readily admits is the highest priority, and caring for her staff, which she sees as equally important. It is no surprise that Pam says that well-trained, engaged, caring staff is the key to the high-quality resident care for which FVM is known.
According to her successor, Karen Buness, “Pam is a wonderful nurse and a fantastic leader. Her knowledge, caring approach and dedication to the residents and staff are unparalleled. She leaves big shoes to fill.”
Pam has seen things change a lot in long-term care over the course of her career. She attributes this to modern medicine’s ability to better treat many chronic diseases. This positive step forward means that people are living longer; therefore the need for long-term care is constantly growing.
When she first became DOC at Fairview in 2005, about 80% of the residents were capable of getting to the dining rooms mostly under their own steam, or with a little help of another resident. Although sometimes precarious to watch, Pam said, “You had to admire their spirit.” Now, she believes that only about 20% of the residents would be able to do that without help from a staff member. On average, residents are living longer and require a greater amount of support in almost all areas of daily living.
When asked what she is most proud of with respect to her time at the Manor, the answer again reflects Pam’s philosophy. “I’m most proud of my nursing team and the Manor’s team spirit,” she says. “These things have a direct impact on the care provided.”
“Pam will be sorely missed,” said Hospital President and CEO Mary Wilson Trider. “Her work has touched hundreds of lives over theyears and so it makes sense that we celebrate her well-deserved retirement in a way that recognizes and continues her legacy of caring for both the residents and the staff of Fairview Manor.”
Mary is pleased to announce that the AGH-FVM Foundation will be establishing a special Pam Murphy Fairview Manor Nursing Education Fund in support of education and training. For all the many people who want to wish Pam well on her retirement, donations can be made to the Foundation designated for this new, special fund. Each year, the Fund will help nurses at FVM take courses or attend a conference. Donations can be dropped off at the Foundation Office just inside the Hospital’s main door, made over the phone at 613-256-2500, ext. 2296 or made online here.
Please join us in wishing Pam a long and happy retirement.