Discover the inspiring story of Helen B, a devoted nurse, wife, sister, and lifelong caregiver. From a 50-year nursing career to caring for her family and fostering children, Helen’s journey highlights compassion, resilience, and the power of community support.

A Woman of Strength, Endurance, and Compassion

At Serving Hands Senior Care, we are honoured to support family caregivers who pour their hearts into looking after their loved ones. Today, we shine a spotlight on one such caregiver whose dedication and resilience continue to inspire our entire team and community.

Meet Helen – wife to Lyle, sister to Tilly, and a woman whose caregiving journey spans decades. Both Lyle and Tilly receive care through Serving Hands, but Helen remains at the heart of their daily support.

From Nurse to Family Caregiver

Helen’s story of compassion and caregiving began long before she started looking after her husband and sister. In fact, her journey began in 1967 when she became a Registered Nurse.

“We were trained by the nuns,” Helen shared with a smile. “We had to be on the ball. They were incredibly strict!”

Helen spent much of her career at University Hospital, working in the float pool and taking on management roles. She fondly remembers her time there, reflecting on how nurses were well-supported and the strong sense of unity across departments.

“There were nurse educators and managers for each floor,” she recalled. “We worked together, and everyone had each other’s backs.”

Answering the Call: Adapting to Change

In 1991, a large-scale government cutback led to many nurses being encouraged to take severance packages—and Helen was among them. She accepted the offer and closed the University hospital chapter of her career. But caregiving never left her heart.

By 1993, she had moved to Westview and spent a year working in a group home.

“Now that was an eye-opener,” she said with a grin, reflecting on the vastly different setting compared to her university days.

A Heart for Hospice and Long-Term Care

Although Helen worked in a variety of settings throughout her career, including long-term care, she says that if she could do it all over again, she would have focused more on hospice care.

“That’s where my heart really is,” she shared. “Helping people through that final stage of life is incredibly meaningful.”

Retirement and a New Chapter in Caregiving

Helen finally retired in 2020, bringing an end to a healthcare career that spanned more than 50 years.

“If I hadn’t retired,” she said with enthusiasm, “I would have come to work with Serving Hands!”

But retirement didn’t mean rest. Her days are still full—caring for her husband, supporting her sister, and staying active with her church and grandchildren.

Over 50 Years of Marriage: A Partnership of Compassion

Helen married Lyle in 1974, meaning they’ve now been married for over 51 years. Lyle, a heavy-duty mechanic and former driving instructor, is described as a deeply kind man who always sees the best in people.

Together, Helen and Lyle built a life of care—not just for each other, but for many others.

When asked how they’ve stayed married so long, Lyle smiled and said,
“Oh, I just stay quiet.”

A Foster Family to Many

Helen and Lyle’s compassion extended beyond their immediate family. Over the years, they opened their home and hearts to more than 50 foster children, many with complex medical and emotional needs.

“I remember bottle-feeding one of our foster babies every two hours,” Helen said. “He was only two weeks old. His needs were immense.”

While she sometimes wishes she had fostered to adopt, Helen cherishes the memories and lessons from her time as a foster parent.

 

The Heart of the Home: Family

Helen lights up when she talks about her family. She and Lyle have two children—a daughter, Janelle, and a son, Darren—and they are proud grandparents to six beautiful grandchildren.

“They keep me going,” Helen shared. “My grandchildren are everything.”

Caring for Her Sister, Tilly

In 2009, Helen’s sister Tilly joined their household. Living with dementia and vision impairment, Tilly is still full of personality and presence.

“She listens quietly to the conversations around her,” Helen said. “Then she’ll chime in with something clever or insightful. She’s still very aware.”

Tilly enjoys being surrounded by family, her loving caregivers, and familiar sounds. During a visit, her caregiver Daytona gently whistled a tune, and Tilly smiled and responded:“Bird.”

That simple moment captured the beautiful connection between caregiver and client—a bond built on trust, familiarity, and kindness.

How Serving Hands Became Part of Their Story

Lyle and Tilly have been with Serving Hands Senior Care for over five years. Their journey began with Allen, who provided lawn maintenance and transportation to the Westview Day Program for Lyle and Tilly.

As needs changed, the support grew. Caregivers now visit their home to assist with daily personal care for both Lyle and Tilly.

“I couldn’t do it without Serving Hands!” Helen said sincerely.

She also shared her appreciation for the caregivers who have become like family. Daytona has a special connection with Tilly, while Val, Lyle’s caregiver, has become a weekly highlight.

“He waits by the window every Friday at 2:00 for Val to arrive,” Helen shared. “He won’t even drink his coffee until she’s here. She always brings him a special treat—it really gives him something to look forward to.”

A Deep Faith and a Love of Travel

Helen is a devout Catholic, and her faith is a guiding force in her life. Her spiritual practices, church involvement, and belief in prayer support her through the emotional ups and downs of caregiving.

She also spoke about her upcoming pilgrimage—a 15-day journey through Europe with her church group.

“I know Lyle can’t come, but I really miss travelling with him,” she said quietly. “We used to love exploring new places together.”

Words of Wisdom for Fellow Family Caregivers

After decades in healthcare and more than 50 years as a caregiver in her own home, Helen had some advice for others on a similar path:

1. “I’m so lucky to have Serving Hands Senior Care. You know, when you can choose the agency you want, I’m so glad I chose Serving Hands!”
2. “Respite care is very important. Take time for yourself.”
3. “Get to know your caregivers. It makes all the difference.”

 

Gratitude for the Team Behind the Scenes

Before concluding, Helen wanted to express her appreciation for Jenise, the Caregiver and Scheduling Manager.

“Jenise is a blessing,” she said. “A real rock that I depend on. She takes the time to really get to know our family and make sure the care fits us.”

Final Thoughts

Helen’s journey is a powerful reminder that caregiving is more than a role—it’s a calling. From her early days as a nurse to her current role as a family caregiver for her husband and sister, her life has been one of service, love, and resilience.

At Serving Hands Senior Care, we are privileged to support people like Helen. Her story is a testament to the strength of family caregivers and an inspiration to anyone walking a similar path.

To all family caregivers: You are not alone. Helen’s story shows that with compassion, community, and support—you can do this.

Photographs credited to: Yegtographer