Mary LeBlanc

I became a member of the Canadian Hospital Infection Control Association (CHICA) in 1977 shortly after I assumed the position of the first Infection Control Officer for The Moncton Hospital. In a new position, in a general hospital, with over 400 beds I needed to seek out resources to assist me in my new role. Joining the National Association was a great first step. At the time I had a very supportive boss who encouraged me to access continuing education in my new field of practice. In 1978 I attended the first national conference of CHICA in Jasper Alberta. It is there I started my journey of learning and networking with my colleagues in Canada and beyond.

I was very fortunate to be able to be funded to attend every annual infection control conferences from 1978 – 2005. Although I missed a few from 2006 onward I never lost contact with colleagues and mentors I could rely on for expert advice. It was by attending those conferences that I established great connections to fellow IP&Cs and if I had an issue that I needed help with I knew someone was only a phone call away. My career included practice in 5 Provinces and a short stent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Serving as the Canadian representative on the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology for 2 terms (1998-2004) furthered my networking capabilities.

In addition to attending the education conferences over the years I also volunteered for service in 1983 on the national Board and Committees. Again I benefitted from networking with colleagues at those meetings. I knew anytime I needed help with a new type of infection that help was there. There has always been a willingness to share our experiences with others. I often said I learned as much after hours networking as I did attending the formal sessions!

I would not have had such a successful career in IP&C without my membership in our national association.