Kathy Griffiths

Job Title
Public Health Nurse.

Department/Location
Infant, Child and Youth Team, Three Bridges Health Center

How long have you worked at VCH?
Eight years.

Tell us what you do at VCH:
I help organize all the Public Flu Clinics for VCH downtown. I used to work in the hospital before coming to Public Health and I know how important it is to get the flu shot. To see people suffer from complications from the flu, especially babies, children and seniors, the most vulnerable, I learned early on just what a difference I can make by getting my flu shot. Even though I’ve always been a very healthy adult, it is so important to get the shot so I don’t become a carrier of the viruses and pass these germs to these vulnerable persons. The flu vaccine only makes my immune system stronger, and therefore, I am sick fewer days every year and healthier.
Find out how you can win an iPad mini by getting your flu shot on the VCH staff flu webpage!
I love working our Baby Immunization clinics and flu clinics and enjoy working with the public.

When I’m not working flu clinics, I help families when they come home from the hospital with their new babies. We support them with breastfeeding, sleep, and all aspects of being a new parent. I also immunize babies for their childhood immunizations, as well. I work in the community supporting daycares, and families with all areas of childhood growth and development.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
Knowing that what I do will make a difference to families in their health and in many areas of their childrens growth and development. Keeping the community population healthy by immunizing against diseases, that years ago, put many in the hospital or worse. Families are so appreciative of our work and are generally surprised at the knowledge and support we offer to them prenatally and postnatally. This is what makes me love my work.

How does your work contribute to the VCH True North goals?
We promote better health by focussing on health promotion, immunization and teaching at the prenatal to school age levels. For example, since 1985 when Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine was first approved, with our immunizations, we have reduced Hib vaccine by 99% fewer cases. I know my work contributes to this health of the population.

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
My previous career before nursing was as a pool and recreation manager. I was a lifeguard and swim instructor for many years before going into nursing.

Who is somebody that you consider a major role model in your life?
My husband. He worked his entire career as an RCMP and helped so many families along the way. He was a very compassionate peace officer. He supported me in going back to school to become a nurse and was my best cheerleader. His patience, listening ablility, ability to problem solve with the best interests of everyone involved inspired me every day. He is one of the most compassionate people I’ve ever met.

Who or what inspires you?
My collegues inspire me everyday, to be the best nurse I can be. They are each individually so diverse, yet have a common bond/goal: To serve the public. To give the best, most up-to-date information possible, give the best information to suit their individual needs. To promote healthy living, parenting, and be the best you can be.

Most healthy habit:
I am an avid walker and have walked 20 half marathons, including the Vancouver International 10 times.

If an actor or actress were to play you in a movie, who would it be?
Leah Remini from King of Queens.