Ayden Belles awarded 2026 Gibson Family Health Care Nursing Scholarship

The Gibson Family Health Care Nursing Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce that Ayden Belles, a graduate of Gananoque Intermediate & Secondary School, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Gibson Family Health Care Nursing Scholarship.

Presented annually by the Gibson family through Carveth Care Centre, the scholarship supports a graduating student who is pursuing a post-secondary education in nursing and demonstrates a commitment to caring for others, community involvement, and academic achievement.

Following his graduation on June 25, Ayden will begin studies at St. Lawrence College, where he will pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse.

Ayden’s interest in nursing was inspired by his father, who works in the profession. Through witnessing firsthand the impact nurses have on the lives of patients and families, he developed a deep appreciation for healthcare and a desire to make a meaningful contribution to his community through a career dedicated to helping others.

In addition to his educational goals, Ayden has demonstrated a strong commitment to service and community involvement. He completed a co-operative education placement at Carveth Care Centre and continued to volunteer with the Activation Department, assisting with programs and activities that enhance the quality of life for residents. His compassion, reliability, and willingness to help others made him a valued member of the team.

“Ayden has been a pleasure to work with,” says Shannon Buell, Activation Manager at Carveth Care Centre. “He is always willing to learn and eager to take on new experiences. What stood out most was the genuine connection he formed with our residents. He is compassionate, patient, and treats everyone with kindness and respect. Whether helping with activities or simply spending time talking with residents, Ayden consistently demonstrated the caring qualities that are so important in health care. We have no doubt he will make an excellent nurse.”

Ayden has also been an active member of the Gananoque community through his participation with the Gananoque Islanders hockey program for 13 years. Through sport, he has developed teamwork, leadership, and perseverance—qualities that will serve him well throughout his nursing career.

The scholarship committee was impressed not only by Ayden’s dedication to nursing but also by his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and genuine desire to support others. These qualities reflect the values that the Gibson Family Health Care Nursing Scholarship was created to recognize and encourage.

The committee extends its sincere congratulations to Ayden on this well-deserved achievement and wishes him every success as he begins his journey toward a rewarding career in health care.

Congratulations, Ayden, and best wishes for the future. To learn more about living or working at Carveth Care Centre, call 613-382-4752.