Ersing’s tree commemorates dedication of patients-first Powell River nurse

Fern Magnus-Brown plants the Ersing Hanegraaf Memorial tree outside Powell River General Hospital. The tree features leaves shaped like hearts.

When Ersing Hanegraaf passed away last June, staff at Powell River General Hospital (PRGH) wanted to honour the well-respected and dedicated nurse who had worked at the hospital since 1989.

As an RN and care coordinator in Critical Care and Med/Surg over the years, Ersing will be remembered for always putting patients first. To recognize her dedication, Cynthia Stevens organized a collection to purchase a tree to be planted in a garden at the hospital entrance created by die-hard gardeners, Karel Gemmell and Fern Magnus-Brown (seen in picture).   The tree is a Forest Pansy redbud that features heart-shaped leaves.

Take a look next time you visit PRGH and pause a moment to remember a nurse whose passion for patients will never be forgotten.