Blanche River Health (BRH) proudly hosted its 9th Annual An Weiler Spirit Award Ceremony at its Englehart site on March 28, 2025, recognizing employees who go above and beyond to embody the organization’s values and uplift others in their daily work.

The award was established in 2016 in memory of An Weiler, a beloved former BRH employee remembered for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to both patients and colleagues. The award recognizes staff who are genuine, caring, and put others first while demonstrating BRH’s core values: Accountability, Respect, and Courage to Excel.

Nominated by peers, this year’s recipient is Dr. Scott Daley, Emergency Department Physician at the Englehart Site.

“Dr. Daley is the kind of person who makes a tough day better just by being there,” said Courtney French, RN, who co-nominated him. “His positivity is contagious. He consistently goes above and beyond for patients and staff, and he’s instrumental in keeping the Emergency Department running smoothly.”

Dr. Daley, who joined BRH in 2023, first as a locum and then signing on in 2024, was highlighted for his deep ties to Northern Ontario and his commitment to rural medicine. “I chose BRH because I wanted to serve communities like the one I grew up in,” Dr. Daley said in an earlier feature. “It’s about giving back and being part of a supportive team.”

The 2024 nominees also included:

• Lorraine O’Gorman, Registration Clerk (Englehart Site)
• Malorie Surtees, Medical Laboratory Technician 4 (Cross-Site)
• Melanie Gour, Registered Nurse (Kirkland Lake Site)
• Tracy Harman, Personal Support Worker (Englehart Site)
• Michelle Cowie, Registered Nurse (Kirkland Lake Site)
• Yvonne Duffy-Crosby, Personal Support Worker (Cross-Site)
• Jessica Parkman, Recruitment Specialist (Cross-Site)

“Our team members, like these nominees, are the ones who truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Chelsea Price, Wellness & Volunteer Coordinator. “Their dedication and compassion bring heart to every interaction, inspiring those around them.”

Dr. Brian McPherson, Chief of Staff, added, “Recognizing physicians like Dr. Daley strengthens the culture of care across our sites. His leadership in the Emergency Department at the Englehart Site is an example for all of us.”

Jorge VanSlyke, President & CEO, concluded, “This award reminds us of the power of compassion and connection in healthcare. It’s what makes a difference in the lives of our patients”

Let’s Keep the Recognition Going

Your positive experiences with BRH matter! Share your story with us and help us highlight the outstanding care that makes a difference. Submit your feedback online at blancheriverhealth.ca or use the forms available in our hospital waiting areas and we will feature the team member in an upcoming Thankful Thursday.

About Blanche River Health

Blanche River Health (BRH) is a 69-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (21 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you. 

BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel. 

Please direct media inquiries to: Communications and Public Relations 
1-866-274-7774 ext. 2144 | communications@blancheriverhealth.ca

Pictured (Left to right)

Main photo: Dr. Daley accepts the 2024 An Weiler Spirit Award.

Second photo: Nominee Pin Presentation - Mason Givens, Brendon Flynn, Dr. Scott Daley, Amanda Savarie, Courtney French.

Third photo:  Courtney French, Dr. Scott Daley, Samantha Saudino, Amanda Savarie, Amy Parker, Barbara Effenberger.