To the OC Community,
Flags have been lowered at the Salmon Arm Campus and this notice is shared in memory of Taylor Abernethy (D’Aoust), a student in the Health Care Access Program (HCAP) who passed away recently after a recreational accident.
She leaves behind her wife Gabriela and mother Carol.
Taylor is remembered as a dedicated student who was extremely passionate about her role in caring for others. She was a valued employee of Mount Ida Mews Long Term Care in Salmon Arm. Taylor was currently enrolled in the HCAP program to further her career in the field she loved.
“We are deeply saddened by Taylor’s tragic passing,” said Shuswap-Revelstoke Regional Dean Joan Ragsdale. “Our condolences go out to her family, friends and all who are grieving right now. Taylor spent her days caring for others. She was deeply committed to her work as a health care professional and was excited to have the opportunity to study to be a Health Care Aide. She leaves behind a legacy of someone who took the time to support those who did not have a lot of other family. We know she’ll be missed by those whose lives she touched along the way.”
“Our hearts, our thoughts and our deepest sympathies go out to Taylor’s family during this difficult time,” said Okanagan College President Neil Fassina. "Her passing leaves a hole in the OC community, a loss we recognize will be deeply felt by her colleagues, peers and instructors and all who knew her. To our students and team members, if you need emotional support, please do not hesitate to reach out and access the supports available to you through OC now and in the days to come.”
Students can visit the Counselling Services page to connect with a Counsellor. Employees can access support through the College’s Employee and Family Assistance program (EFAP).
In lieu of flowers, Taylor’s family is inviting contributions to the memorial bursary established in her name through the Okanagan College Foundation. This bursary will ensure Taylor’s legacy lives on by supporting female students enrolled in the Health Care Assistant program at the Salmon Arm campus of Okanagan College. Donations can be made via: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/65895.