Meet Amanda McDonald! Amanda has lived in Kamloops for 29 years. She is a kind care-aid who loves to help and spend time with her family!
Photo Credit: Byrd’s Eye View Photography
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I am from Kamloops and have lived here since I was born (29 years).
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family (my husband Michael, and my daughters Norah (5) and Julia (1). They are my world and they bring me such joy.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
The Modern Family Boutique; Jenn always brings in great products for moms and she is always helpful and friendly!
Describe yourself in one word.
Kind.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Santorini; it is the most beautiful place I have ever been to (the landscape, people, food), and I would go back in a heartbeat.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Going to family events with my family (Wildlights at the Wildlife Park, Canada Day at Riverside Park) etc.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I introduced myself to a person at a new workplace and instead of saying “nice to meet you too,” I said, “you’re welcome.”
Photo Credit: Byrd’s Eye View Photography
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Bring a candy striper in high school and seeing family members being looked after in a hospital inspired me to go after a career in health care. I loved watching the nurses and care aides helping people, so I wanted to do that as a career. I have been a care aide for 7 years now and I love it!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My fondest memories as a child were spending time with my grandfather (who passed away when I was 7). My favourite place to be was curled on his lap watching a movie. Him and my grandma also used to be in highland dancing so he would play Scottish music and we would all dance around the living room.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
When I was in high school, I was a Candy Striper from 2006-2008 at RIH, and I loved it. I would help stock the rooms or get water for the patients and I really enjoyed it. I also come into my work (Berwick on the Park) on some of my days off and bring my daughters to visit with my residents. I have also sung the national anthems for the Kamloops Blazers and Storm hockey games since 2004.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I wish hatred towards people of a different race, gender, or preference could come to an end. We are all human beings deserving of love and it shouldn’t matter what colour our skin is or who choose to love or be known as.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
I would probably go to the lookout near the old Chapters Viewpoint restaurant and overlook Kamloops at night
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would love to see Kamloops change their mind about the PAC. I think it would be an incredible asset to the downtown area to bring in great entertainment.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
We have each other’s back and love to support the people in our community.
Photo Credit: Byrd’s Eye View Photography
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Take my family to Disney Land, get a tattoo, and travel lots with my husband when we retire.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I have never broken a bone!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook and Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
I work as a care aide at Berwick on the Park.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I wanted a career helping people, and when I graduated, I loved my practicum experience at Berwick and had to be an employee here!
What is the goal of your business?
Provide exceptional care and activities for our residents.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
The hardest part of my job is when people pass away. These people become like family and it is difficult to say goodbye.
Photo Credit: Byrd’s Eye View Photography
What do you always find yourself saying?
"No worries!"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Don’t sweat the small stuff!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Adele; I absolutely adore her and her voice, and I think she would be a riot to spend time with! She’s so funny!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
So that local families can be successful and support their families.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being a mom to my two girls. I am far from perfect at it but they bring me joy every day and I am so proud that they are mine.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My husband Michael McDonald! He is an amazing support to myself and my girls and has a big heart in his work at ASK Wellness.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Michael McDonald.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you for choosing me for In Focus! I am proud to live in Kamloops and I love my life here! I nominate my husband to be your next person because I feel that he has had some valuable experiences in his life that would be interesting to read! He is also a proud Kamloopsian of 29 years! We have been together since grade 10 for a total of 13.5 years and married for 6 years, and we love our daughters to pieces. We couldn’t be happier to be able to raise them in such a great city!
Photo Credit: Byrd’s Eye View Photography
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
