How a Classic LifeCare Nurse Helped a Family Fly Across Canada with Medical Support

Some journeys remind us why we do what we do. Recently, one such experience left a lasting impression on everyone involved, especially the remarkable family at the center of it.

Children and Family Services (CFS) reached out with a special request: a 9-month-old boy with complex medical needs had to travel from Calgary to New Brunswick with his grandmother and two-year-old sister. The baby required NG (nasogastric) tube feeds and medication, and his grandmother was still learning how to manage this care on her own.

Understanding the potential challenges, CFS asked if someone from Classic LifeCare could accompany the family, not to take over, but to walk alongside them and offer support along the way.

A Journey Built on Trust and Teamwork with Classic LifeCare

Nikki Walsh, one of our Clinical Nursing Supervisors, met the family early that morning at Calgary airport. Her role was simple, yet deeply meaningful: making the journey as smooth as possible, so Grandma could focus on caring for her granddaughter, with peace of mind that help was close by if needed.

Traveling with two young children, and essential medical equipment, is no small task. Thanks to some patient fellow passengers and a lot of teamwork, the group made it through check-in and security without too much stress. Nikki kept the baby engaged, while Grandma leaned into learning, caring, and doing her best at every turn.

But things didn’t go as planned. After boarding, the flight was delayed due to mechanical issues, and the passengers had to deplane and switch terminals. In the middle of that, the baby needed another NG feed. With the boarding line moving forward, Nikki calmly prepared the feed right there in the moving line, while Grandma held her grandson and kept him calm.

A Few Hours of Rest, Reassurance, and Relief

Once in the air, there was finally space to breathe. Nikki managed the baby’s feeds, giving Grandma a chance to rest her arms and her mind. In between, they shared tips, talked through care routines, and slowly built her confidence together.

Grandma had a lot on her plate, three more grandchildren were arriving later that day. Her honesty about how overwhelmed she felt met with steady reassurance. The goal wasn’t to fix everything, but to simply be there in the moment, helping and guiding however possible.

A Brave Goodbye, and a New Chapter

At the airport, the Alberta CFS worker transferred care to the local team. As Grandma prepared to leave, she became emotional. The weight of what lay ahead, raising five young grandchildren, including a medically complex infant, was heavy.

She turned to Nikki and expressed deep gratitude. For Nikki, the feeling was mutual. Witnessing Grandma’s strength, love, and vulnerability was a reminder of what real courage looks like.

Walking With Families, Not Ahead of Them

This wasn’t just a medical escort; it was a glimpse into what caregiving really means. Sometimes it’s just showing up, staying calm in the chaos, and offering small moments of support when they matter most.

To families like this one: thank you for letting us be a part of your journey. Your resilience inspires us more than you know.

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