“Four generations of my family have proudly worked at and supported The Ottawa Hospital! During a recent family BBQ, I learned that in total, nine family members have worked at the hospital, and together, we’ve contributed an impressive 100 years of service!
My grandparents, Erma and Doug Van Dusen, raised their 12 children here in Ottawa, and in the 1960’s when their youngest was just two, my grandmother made the decision to re-enter the workforce. She found her place in Food and Hospitality Services at the Civic campus, where she dedicated more than 20 years of her life to serving the community.
My courageous aunt, Janice Van Dusen, who recently passed away from cancer, worked at The Ottawa Hospital for an astounding 30 years. Even once she became a patient, she reminisced fondly about her time at the Civic. She was especially excited to see the new hospital campus being built, knowing it would positively impact patients, families, and staff for years to come.
My mother Linda Deshaw contributed 13 tireless years to the Civic, and I recently celebrated my 20th anniversary as a staff member. I have many other family members who have added to our legacy. Today alone, four of us work at The Ottawa Hospital – my cousins Susan and Schuyler and my daughter Emily. I’m incredibly proud that our family continues to grow its service and support to such a historic institution, especially at such a pivotal time for healthcare in our community.”
-submitted by Jennifer van Noort, TOHF
