Born and raised in Waverly, Nova Scotia, near Halifax, she was actively involved in church, school, swimming, and dancing as a child. She began her professional career as an executive secretary and office manager before transitioning to a successful 25+ year career as a Realtor. She is the former Chair of the Board of Directors for Ostomy Canada Society and now serves as Immediate Past Chair. Over the years, she has held various roles within the organization, including Atlantic Regional Administrator, DTC Committee Leader, Advocacy Committee Member, and co-leader of the Ostomy Visitor’s Program. Additionally, she has served as Treasurer and Membership Chair of the Southwest Nova Scotia Ostomy Chapter. Beyond her involvement with Ostomy Canada Society, she has been actively engaged in her community, serving as Past President of the Kinette Club of Yarmouth and as Bulletin Editor for the Atlantic District of Kinsmen and Kinettes. She has also been a Girl Guide Leader, District Trainer, and Past President of the Rugg Bees Hooking Group, where she also served as Treasurer. Currently, she assists in leading the RCIA course at her local Roman Catholic Church and enjoys volunteering in her community. She lectures at three NSCC campuses for the CCA and LPN courses, focusing on ostomies and the journey. Passionate about rug hooking, kayaking, and the natural beauty of the Atlantic Provinces, she deeply values the connections she has made through her work with Ostomy Canada Society.

From North Vancouver, British Columbia, Rosemary works at Lion’s Gate Hospital and has been a cornerstone of ostomy care there since 1985, serving as a certified NSWOC for the past 20 years. In 2024, she was honored with the NSWOC Recognition Award by Ostomy Canada Society for her exceptional contributions to ostomy care. Rosemary provides essential pre- and post-operative education and care to ostomy patients, ensuring ongoing support through the hospital’s outpatient clinic. She also connects patients with local support groups, fostering a sense of community for those living with an ostomy. As the NSWOCC President from 2016 to 2018, she championed access to specialized nurses for ostomy patients across Canada. Currently, she chairs the BC Provincial Nursing Ostomy Committee, where she develops guidelines to enhance nursing care in diverse healthcare settings. Rosemary organizes free patient education sessions for the Vancouver and Lower Mainland community, promoting awareness and support. She frequently presents at Canadian and U.S. conferences, sharing her expertise in ostomy care, and actively engages with local ostomy patients as a guest speaker for the Vancouver Chapter. Her lifelong dedication to clinical care, advocacy, and education has made a profound and lasting impact at local, national, and international levels. Through her tireless work, Rosemary has improved the lives of countless individuals while advancing the field of ostomy care.