SJHS Mission Day Event Showcases Compassionate Care in Action
May 23, 2025On May 7, 2025, St. Joseph’s Health System (SJHS) brought together staff, partners, and community members for a powerful and inspiring event focused on advancing compassionate, person-centered care across the continuum. The theme of SJHS Mission Day 2025 was Compassionate Care in Action, which served as both a celebration of the incredible work happening across our organizations and a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the mission and legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph.
The event opened with a Reflection and Grounding led by Bill Hill, Co-CEO of Noojimo Health — the first all-Indigenous virtual mental wellness clinic — who is a social worker and RPN from Six Nations. Bill set a contemplative and meaningful tone for the day’s discussions and celebration.
Keynote: The Art and Science of Compassion
The keynote address, “Advancing the Art and Science of Compassion,” was delivered by Dr. Shane Sinclair, Professor at the University of Calgary and Director of the Compassion Research Lab. Dr. Sinclair brought powerful insights into the measurable impact of compassion in care, offering a compelling case for why it must remain at the heart of healthcare delivery. His presentation highlighted the need to treat compassion as a critical component of quality care.
Leadership in Action
In his CEO address, Mike Heenan, Interim President & CEO of SJHS, shared stories of bold system-wide initiatives that are transforming care and advancing the mission. Mike spoke to the importance of embedding compassion not just in clinical moments, but in the design, structure, and delivery of care across sectors.
He also spoke about how SJHS is the only health system in Ontario delivering mission-based care across the entire lifespan — from home and community care, supportive housing, acute care, and long-term care, to rehabilitation and hospice. Across our System of Care, we meet people where they are — at every stage of life.
An Exhibition of Innovation
The Advancing Care Beyond Boundaries Exhibition was a standout feature of Mission Day, showcasing innovative programs and teams that exemplify how SJHS is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare. Featured exhibits included:
- Integrated Learning Program
- Essential Care Partner Program
- Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program West
- Hearts for Hospice
- St. Mary’s Health @ Home
- Horticultural Therapy Program
- Integrated Patient Care Team Model
- LTC Beyond Our Walls
- Noojimo Health
Each exhibit offered a glimpse into the creative and compassionate thinking that is transforming experiences for healthcare workers and those we are privileged to serve across the system.
Panel: Compassionate Care in Action
A dynamic panel discussion, moderated by John Woods, Integrated President of SJVD, SJLCB and SJHGC, explored real-world applications of compassionate care and the tangible ways it is improving outcomes for patients, clients and residents across our System of Care. Panelists represented diverse programs and perspectives, each sharing moving stories and powerful insights:
- Helene Hamilton, Essential Care Partner, SJHH
- Jennifer Morritt, Manager, Margaret’s Place Hospice, SJVD
- Lynn Leach, Horticulturalist, Horticultural Therapy Program, SJLCB
- Lesley Borth, VP & Administrator of Long-Term Care, LTC Beyond Our Walls, SJHCG
- Grace Bhinder RN, Community Care Coordinator, East Wellington Family Health Team
Their stories illustrated how SJHS leads with people-first, mission-focused care that meets individuals where they are and honors their unique journeys.
A Reflection on Legacy
The event concluded with a moving closing reflection by Sister Anne Anderson, who spoke about “The Legacy: Compassion & Context.” Her words reminded all in attendance of our shared history and the ongoing responsibility to uphold that legacy with humility, courage, and purpose.
Click here to watch a video about Sister Anne’s legacy and impact on the SJHS mission.
This event powerfully showcased how SJHS is advancing care beyond boundaries, driven by a deep and unwavering commitment to compassion, innovation, and mission. As we look to the future, the voices and stories shared throughout Mission Day will continue to inspire us to lead with heart and transform healthcare in meaningful, lasting ways.
If you have any questions or feedback about Mission Day 2025, please contact the SJHS CEO Office.