Meet Elizabeth Yorski: Offering spiritual and compassionate care
At Oak Valley Health, Elizabeth Yorski is a familiar and compassionate presence. Known by many as the spiritual care coordinator or chaplain, she has been part of our organization for five years now.
Elizabeth’s professional journey began in Training and Development, where she worked with Quality, Patient Safety, and Patient Experience. Her career path shifted when she focused on delivering care through the Spiritual and Religious Care program. Initially offering care at Uxbridge Hospital, Elizabeth’s role transitioned into a full-time position as Chaplain for Markham Stouffville Hospital and Reactivation Care Centre in September 2024, marking a new chapter in her career.
“I began creating programs in mentoring, coaching, and leadership, and soon people were turning to me with personal concerns and real-life struggles they couldn’t share elsewhere… becoming a chaplain felt like a natural calling. Since coming to Oak Valley Health, I’ve deepened my work as a psychotherapist and found that all I knew before was being continually affirmed in this role,” she reflects.
Elizabeth’s role extends far beyond the physical needs of patients. She says, “love, compassion, and mercy are the core elements of what it means to be human,” and believes that it’s crucial to remind oneself and others that we are not simply our bodies in need of repair but complex, emotional, and spiritual beings in need of so much more.
The work and support she provides within our hospitals is rooted in spiritual and compassionate care to all in need. The Spiritual and Religious Care program offers a wide range of support, including one-on-one visits for patients, family members, and staff, and services from local clergy and volunteers, available seven days a week. Whether someone belongs to a faith community or not, Elizabeth and her team offer grief counseling, bereavement support, and specialized care for parents who have lost a child early in pregnancy through the Little Lambs program. The Meditation Room also serves a peaceful space for reflection, solace, and religious practice.
Spiritual and religious care extends beyond hospital settings; it is present in many areas of life. With December marking a time for celebration and observation for many, Elizabeth reflects on the significance of the month, honouring traditions, and spending time with loved ones. The season marks a time to show gratitude and offer gestures of kindness and inclusion. Even acknowledging the season can have a greater impact and uplift spirits more than it may seem.
“During the holiday season, many add a worry about what to say. Though our faith or custom may differ, our greetings can offer a joyful acknowledgement, recognize a divine presence, and even make a greeting more personable. So, worry less about what to say, but be eager to receive this month’s greeting with joy: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Bodhi Day, Happy Kwanzaa, Blessed Gahambar Maidyarem, and Happy Holidays to all.”
While the holidays are a time for joy and connection, Elizabeth also acknowledges the complex emotions that can surface during this season — grief, loss, and even personal struggles. Elizabeth encourages everyone to check in on each other, take the time to talk with peers, and learn from one another.
“During the holiday season, many add a worry about what to say. Though our faith or custom may differ, our greetings can offer a joyful acknowledgement, recognize a divine presence, and even make a greeting more personable. So, worry less about what to say, but be eager to receive this month’s greeting with joy.”
“Holidays often bring with them high expectations and memories that can feel overwhelming. It’s important to recognize these pressures without adding extra burdens on ourselves. Be mindful of your own needs — schedule time to rest between busy days, listen to your loved ones, and stay connected to the people around you. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy the season instead of simply enduring it,” she advises.
When she’s not offering support, Elizabeth finds peace in the things she loves most.
“I connect with family near and far, with creation where I let myself be taken up with its wonder and marvel and, with God where I enjoy the quiet embrace of love and joy for life.”
And, true to her love for movement, she’s also an avid walker. “A 25km walk is especially refreshing and rejuvenating for me.”
Through her work and life Elizabeth finds healing through connection, compassion, and mindfulness. Through her care, she helps others navigate life’s challenges with warmth and grace.
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