Andrea Keller has been an RN for more than 35 years in various frontline roles and in leadership. In March 2017, Andrea lost her oldest son, Tyler, to toxic drug poisoning. Andrea belongs to the Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Community Drug Strategy Advisory Committee, and is a member of Mom’s Stop the Harm. She also acts as co-chair for the Kingston Chapter of RNAO. She participates annually in International Overdose Awareness Day (Aug. 31), and is involved in various conferences and events that raise awareness and advocate for changes to address the mental health, addictions and homelessness crisis municipally, provincially and federally. Through the support of these groups, Andrea has spoken about her lived experience in many forums, including high schools, police departments and hospitals. She regularly talks with community groups, MPs and MPPs to advocate for stigma reduction and change.
The Leadership Award in Political Action is presented to the RN or NP who acts as a change agent, resource and mentor through political action. This individual is actively involved in discussions with MPPs/MPs, other decision-makers, and media that benefit the health of individuals or communities.
