The Sarnia Journal has partnered with local photographer Art Connolly to feature his captivating “Humans of Sarnia” series as he delves into the lives and experiences of everyday people in Sarnia. Follow his series on Instagram and Facebook
From time to time, certain stories deserve to be shared again. This profile of Blair Anderson was previously published in Humans of Sarnia. In revisiting it, we are reminded why she connected so deeply with readers.
I met Blair Anderson on a bright fall morning in Sarnia. Blair, a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), welcomed me with a warm smile. I quickly realized that her journey from being a Developmental Service Worker (DSW) to becoming an entrepreneur was driven by compassion and resilience.
Blair Anderson’s roots in Lambton County run deep. Born and raised in Sombra, a small riverside community, she now lives in Mooretown. Blair always knew she wanted a career that involved helping others.
After graduating from SCITS, she attended St. Clair College, where she earned her DSW diploma. Her first job after graduation was as a resource teacher with a children’s health centre working within the First Nations community.
Despite her fulfillment in working with children with exceptionalities, Blair felt a calling to return to school. Juggling her job, she went back to pursue her RPN designation. The transition into nursing seemed like a natural evolution of her desire to help others.
Soon, Blair found herself working as a nurse at a local hospital, rotating between the Emergency Room and Mental Health and Addictions departments. She transitioned into long-term care before returning to her pediatric roots to start On the Go Nurse.
In 2017, Blair’s life was turned upside down. In one week, her father passed away after a battle with ALS, her brother got married, and she graduated with her RPN designation. "It was one of the most emotionally intense weeks of my life," Blair said softly.
Losing her father and watching her mother navigate the system opened her eyes to how much is asked of caregivers. "There were so many things my mother had to manage. It was like she had a full-time job as a caregiver," Blair explained.
That experience made her realize there are significant gaps in our healthcare system. Those observations sparked the initial idea for On the Go Nurse. She saw firsthand that families needed more support on the ground.
Launched to serve the communities of Sarnia, Lambton, and Kent Counties, On the Go Nurse brings healthcare to the doorstep. The business offers routine care like ear irrigation and foot care, alongside specialized services like wound care and caregiver respite.
Blair’s business fills a crucial gap in the local healthcare system. "There are so many people who can’t get in to see a doctor for weeks, but they need medical attention sooner than that," she explained. "Sometimes, they just aren’t physically able to get to a doctor’s office."
Caregiver burnout is a significant focus of her work. "There are so many families where one person takes on all the responsibility, and it’s just overwhelming. I can come in and provide that respite care, giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge."
Blair also takes the time to walk her patients through the complex world of healthcare benefits. She helps them understand what services are covered, especially regarding foot care or respite services. Her experience in the medical field ensures they receive maximum support.
Blair’s entrepreneurial venture is driven by a deeply rooted passion for people. "I’ve always loved working with people," she said with a grin. "I think that’s why I have a 90% re-booking rate. My patients trust me to look out for their well-being."
Her extroverted and approachable nature makes it easy to see why her patients are so loyal. Throughout our chat, her enthusiasm for her work was infectious. She treats every patient as a person rather than a checklist.
Blair recounted one instance where a simple conversation led to a crucial discovery. During a routine visit, a patient mentioned unusual symptoms they were experiencing. It turned out to be something serious, and she was able to get them help before things worsened.
In a world where access to healthcare is increasingly strained, On the Go Nurse provides a service to those who might otherwise fall through the cracks. "There’s a real need for this kind of care," Blair explained. Mobility and transportation problems often prevent people from seeking help.
Her service is particularly valuable in rural areas, where access to healthcare can be even more limited. Sarnia and the surrounding counties are home to many older adults who might not have family nearby to help them. Blair bridges that physical distance.
As On the Go Nurse grows, Blair plans to expand her services. She is looking into partnering with other healthcare professionals to offer even more comprehensive care. "I’m always thinking about how we can make things better," she said.
Despite growth, Blair’s focus remains on the individuals she serves. On the Go Nurse has become a lifeline for many in Sarnia and the surrounding counties. With Blair at the helm, the mobile nursing service is just getting started.
Blair Anderson is proving that all it takes is a caring heart and a passion for making a difference. For more information visit www.onthegonurse.com.
Humans of Sarnia founder Art Connolly is fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people. Inspired by the Humans of New York series, he captures the essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens.
