Karine Bernard has been a Clinical Nurse for close to 15 years years and has worked for the majority of those years to empower and improve palliative care in her community. Early in her life, Karine’s personal experiences influenced her to pursue a professional practice in this field. Palliative care quickly became her expertise and passion.

Karine’s involvement in La Traversée allows her to continue to pursue her passion for palliative care. This was a logical next step for Karine. She is well aware of the great need for a palliative care home in the Upper Laurentians. Both patient and family need to be supported and accompanied through the various stages of the illness. To do this, preparation is required. “A marathon runner prepares for his run, a pregnant woman gets ready to give birth, and a terminally ill person must also prepare for his or her passing”.

Karine’s vision is influenced by the belief that everyone should be respected and heard. Patients have the right to the information about their condition in order to help them make informed decisions. Transparency and authenticity in communication is essential in order to ensure a dignified end of life.