Gail Paech is a highly focused, seasoned nursing professional with more than 50 years of experience. She has spent a lifetime speaking out for nursing and speaking out for health care in Canada. In her various roles, Gail has consistently championed the role of nurses as critical to the Canadian health-care system. She supports nurses in their advocacy roles, and in promoting and showcasing the value of RNAO as the voice for nursing. Her contributions have spanned administration, advocacy, policy, practice, research and education in all roles.
Gail embraces all opportunities to connect with nurses and provide financial support in education and scholarship. In her role as RNAO president from 1983 to 1985, she spoke out on issues that impacted the nursing profession. She took action to represent nurses at the Grange Inquiry, and was a public and powerful voice in galvanizing nurses to be involved in shaping the Canada Health Act. Gail also navigated ONA evidence-based inclusive care and the value of a united community of nursing.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is bestowed on long-standing members of RNAO who exemplify outstanding contributions to the profession in the areas of practice, education, administration or research, at the provincial, national and/or international level. This includes activities that promote RNAO among nursing colleagues, the government and other health-care partners.
