Celebrating Our Nurses – Nurse Rachel

Rachel’s journey into nursing began when she was just 12 years old, visiting a friend at SickKids. “I was in awe,” she recalls. “So many people working together to care for kids who needed it most.” That same friend introduced her to Campfire Circle, and at 19, Rachel joined as a camp counsellor and then later as a nurse. She hasn’t looked back since.

Today, Rachel is a community health nurse serving fly-in Indigenous communities across northern Ontario but each summer, she returns to camp bringing clinical expertise, compassion, and a love for adventure.

“Being immersed in nature while providing top-quality medical care is a dream,” she says. “You’re paddling at sunset, sleeping under the stars, and still maintaining excellence in care.”

One moment that’s stayed with her was caring for a camper, who had recently undergone a craniotomy, during a canoe trip along the French River with Campfire Circle. “It doesn’t get better than that,” she says.

To any nurse considering joining the medical team at camp, Rachel has just one thing to say: “You’ll love it. If you’re already thinking about it, it’s meant for you.”

As we celebrate these stories, we want to thank every nurse who brings their passion and skill to Campfire Circle. Your care helps make joy, adventure, and connection possible for kids with cancer or serious illness and their families. We couldn’t do this without you.