“I’ve always felt blessed to work at UBCH”

UBC Hospital (UBCH) staff recently gathered at the new Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health to celebrate their colleagues’ decades of service. This year, 48 UBCH staff marked at least 10 years of continuous service with VCH — five celebrated an impressive 30 (or more!) years and a lifetime of memories.

VCH News caught with up some of the celebrants for an interview. Here’s what they had to say:

What did you enjoy most about the service celebration event?

“I thoroughly enjoyed the ceremony. I was impressed with the professional manner in which it was carried out (professional photographer, snacks, etc.). The smiles, hugs and handshakes added to the warm atmosphere of the new building.” — Terry Marohn, shift engineer

“We were the first staff group to hold a celebration in the Centre for Brain Health — it’s the most beautiful location —and it was a real privilege.”— Hilda Lobo, RN

“Seeing everyone altogether for a common purpose!” — Brian Muelchen, carpenter

RN Hilda Lobo (right) and Vivian Eliopoulos (left), chief operating officer for Vancouver Acute.

How does it feel to have 30 years of service to your credit?

“I’ve always felt blessed to work at UBC Hospital. Although the hospital is autonomous from the campus, I’m still proud to point in this direction and say that I work ‘there’. Coming in every morning is still a pleasure. Not many people can come to work driving through a beautiful forest.” — Terry

“It doesn’t feel like 30 years — not at all! I still look forward to coming to work every day.” — Hilda

“It’s interesting to look back and see all the changes in all aspects of hospital operations, and how things have evolved.” — Brian

What do you enjoy most about your job?

“I enjoy the routine of my work and look forward to new challenges. I enjoy my coworkers and am proud of my connections with patients and visitors. It is a family atmosphere here.” — Terry

“What I enjoy most is the team effort. Even when things get difficult, you never feel alone because we all work together. I also really enjoy working in the Centre for Brain Health — it’s such a pleasure to have so much more space.” — Hilda

“I enjoy the wide scope of work — it keeps you on your toes!” — Brian

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

“Every day here is a highlight! I’m thankful to the hospital as it has given me the opportunity to grow. I started out as a labourer and today I’m the senior engineer in Facilities Maintenance & Operations. I enjoy coalescing with students, consultants and other professionals. I love showing new employees the ropes as I learn new qualities from them in exchange.” — Terry

“The length of service — thirty years!” — Brian

“I feel like I’ve achieved a lot, and I’ve been given the chance to study and develop an expertise in intravenous therapy.” — Hilda

Do you have a favourite patient story?

“Yes — I was pregnant at the time, and I was assisting an elderly woman. She took one look at me and said, ‘Looks like you’re quite pregnant, my dear. Why don’t you sit down and share my bed with me.’ What a lovely gesture, and what a beautiful place to work.” — Hilda