Helping Is Its Own Kind of Magic for This Nurse Practitioner

Leanne Wakelin finds magic in helping others.

Speaking from Helen Henderon Care Centre, a long-term care home in Amherstview where she has worked for the past four years as a Nurse Practitioner, Leanne finds deep satisfaction and pleasure in helping others.

Named the home’s Staff Spotlight for January 2026, Leanne is known for her kindness, compassion and excellence as a nurse.

“I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 13 years and a nurse for 41 years,” explains the friendly woman. “I truly enjoy my job at Helen Henderson Care Centre (HHCC). I enjoy the team I work with and getting to know the residents. The best part is working to improve the quality of life for people as much as possible.”

Asked about her job, Leanne says she finds one part particularly challenging. “The most challenging part of my job is ensuring the treatments and medications I prescribe actually improve the resident’s life and do not cause untoward side effects that make things worse,” she explains. “This means ensuring I follow-up with the resident and make sure they feel they are improving. I think something that may surprise people is how little it takes to make someone happy. Residents, like the rest of us, want to be listened to and heard and know you are doing your best for them. I do not always have the right answer, but I feel working with the resident, families and the physician staff we can work towards the best answer.”

Speaking on behalf of the home, Director of Care Sue Reynolds notes, “Leanne is an amazing addition to our medical team. Her knowledge of our residents and families is extraordinary. Leanne actively listens to our residents and families to ensure they are heard and then provides the best care possible. Her teaching capacity for our staff to enhance their knowledge is second to none. We are so incredibly blessed to have the amazing experience and extensive knowledge Leanne brings to our home along with her passion for caring.”