Life and Death Matters is proud to announce that Myke Dyer, a truly exceptional Personal Support Worker (PSW) at Hospice Georgian Triangle, is the 2025 recipient of the Frances Montgomery PSW Award. Sponsored by Life and Death Matters and presented at the Hospice Palliative Care Ontario annual conference (HPCO), this annual award celebrates excellence in hospice palliative care and honours PSWs who exemplify compassion, dignity, and person-centred care in their work.

A Calming Presence in Difficult Moments

Those who work alongside Myke describe him as having a peaceful, grounding presence, creating a sense of stability for both patients and families. His ability to bring calm reassurance is evident in the way he interacts with those in his care.

One colleague shared:

“Myke has an air of peaceful calm and a quiet, unassuming confidence. His steady voice lets you know that everything will be alright, regardless of the circumstance.”

Beyond his confidence and skill, Myke intuitively understands patients’ emotional states, stepping in with gentle reassurance, soothing music, or quiet support when it’s needed most.

A family member recalled a deeply emotional moment:

“Peter was overwhelmed with panic when he realized he would not be returning home. Myke’s calming presence and emotional intelligence helped ease his fears. More importantly, Myke helped Peter find a new place of emotional comfort and resolve. That moment changed everything, allowing Peter to embrace his final days with joy and laughter.”

Compassion That Uplifts Patients and Families

Myke’s kindness and attentiveness extend beyond meeting physical needs – he truly connects with his patients, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and valued. His ability to support families through grief and difficult transitions is frequently praised, with many recalling the impact he has had on their loved ones’ journeys.  

A volunteer shared:  

“I’ve witnessed Myke’s exceptional care time and time again – he brought dignity, comfort, and incredible strength at a time when it was most needed. His warm smile, sense of humour, and compassion exemplify what it means to be a Personal Support Worker.”

Another colleague noted:

“He completely goes above and beyond every single shift. Myke ensures patients and families receive the right kind of support – whether physical, emotional, or simply the reassurance of having someone by their side.”

An Advocate for People-Centred Care

What sets Myke apart is his dedication to tailoring care to each individual’s needs and wishes, ensuring their final days are spent with comfort, dignity, and personal fulfillment. He goes beyond routine care, working with organizations like The Living Wish Foundation, helping patients fulfill special end-of-life wishes and create meaningful moments with their loved ones.

As one team member put it:

“Myke is attuned to his patients and the tenor of a room. He has the ability to bring warmth and laughter while also holding space for the gravity of each moment with a calm, empathetic approach. Above all, he prioritizes dignity right to the end of life.”

His colleagues frequently look to him for insight, with one physician stating:

“On the days Myke is on shift, I look to him for the most pertinent patient details. He understands the nuances of care, disease progression, and dignity – his observations are crucial in ensuring patients receive the best possible support.”

Commitment to Learning and Mentorship

Myke’s dedication to advancing hospice palliative care extends beyond direct patient care – he actively pursues ongoing education and contributes to mentoring new staff and volunteers.

A volunteer emphasized his impact on their learning experience:

“Myke ensures I feel valued and appreciated with his consistent encouragement and support. He always shares the specific health and emotional needs of both the patient and family, helping me provide the best care possible.”

His leadership and commitment to excellence have inspired many, with one staff member noting:

“Myke has taught me to get to know families, patients, and team members – to never be judgmental because we don’t walk in their shoes. He truly leads by example.”  

A Legacy of Compassion, Strength, and Dedication

Through his calm reassurance, emotional intelligence, and deep understanding of palliative care, Myke continues to uplift and inspire people living with life-limiting conditions, families, and colleagues alike. Reflecting on his work, he shared:  

“It is such an honour for me to receive the Frances Montgomery Personal Support Worker Award at this point in my career. I develop a closeness with every person who comes in to our residence, each patient a unique person I respect and show empathy for. Listening to their stories is vital. I attempt to be fair and equitability with all residents first and foremost, advocating for their rights and needs as patients.”

From his ability to comfort and uplift patients to his commitment to education and mentorship, Myke exemplifies the heart of hospice palliative care. His unwavering dedication is a beacon of excellence in the field, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of the profound impact he has on those around him.  

Congratulations, Myke! Your compassion, skill, and commitment continue to shape the future of hospice palliative care.