Allen Dela Torre
Surrey Memorial Hospital's Allen Dela Torre and Sherry Dayrit
Celebrating Our Profession
What's your unit or specialty?
I work in surgical day care at Surrey Memorial Hospital.
How long have you been nursing?
16 years.
Why did you become a nurse and when did you know that nursing was for you?
I have always wanted to work in the medical field since I was a child. I like to help people as it is truly rewarding to make a difference in someone's life. To be able to be a part of their healing process, and to assist them to get better from their current struggles or illness. My family also influenced me as most of my aunts in the US are nurses. They have encouraged me to take up nursing as it is a stable and secure career.
How would you describe the work you do in one word?
Life-changing
How does COVID-19 make you feel?
COVID-19 has made me go through a mix of emotions including fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. However, I have learned to navigate uncertain situations by being flexible and taking it day by day instead of being overwhelmed.
Name one thing on your nursing bucket list.
I would like to be a part of a medical mission team someday.
What do you appreciate most about your fellow nurses?
I appreciate my surgical day care colleagues who are always willing to help. Even after a busy day, we acknowledge each other's hard work and are grateful for each other. I also appreciate the good laughs we have – especially after a stressful day. It makes a huge difference when we know we have each other's back and we come back again the next day to do it all over again.
Celebrating Each Other
Why do you want to acknowledge Sherry Dayrit?
I appreciate the care I received from Sherry. I met her while I was admitted on T7, Surrey Memorial Hospital's post-procedure unit. As a nurse myself, I am so used to providing care to others and not being cared for as a patient. It was different and difficult for me being on the other end, asking for help. Sherry listened to my concerns and acted immediately. She cared for me in the best way she could with empathy and compassion. I am grateful for the care she provided. I am also thankful to the other staff of T7.