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From the Forces to the Frontlines: Marnie Ceccato-White’s Path to Nursing
May 13, 2025
From Chippawa to Gander
Originally from the small town of Chippawa, Ontario, near Niagara Falls, Marnie Ceccato-White now calls Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, home. As part of the first nursing class to access the satellite site in Gander, she’s embraced the unique opportunity to help shape what future rural nursing education might look like in the province.
A New Chapter After Military Service
Marnie isn’t new to healthcare. Before starting her nursing studies, she spent 16 years as a medical technician in the Canadian Armed Forces, training as both a primary care paramedic and a clinical medic.
“As a medic, the more you rise through the ranks, the less patient care you actually do,” she says. “That hands-on patient care is what I love. It’s where I think I thrive.”
That desire to stay directly involved in patient care ultimately led her to pursue a career in nursing.
Discovering the Differences—and Similarities—in Care
Nursing school has allowed Marnie to explore the nuances between pre-hospital and in-hospital care.
“The roles and the stressors are so similar, yet very different,” she notes. “Continuing hands-on care has been the highlight of this program for me.”
Meaningful Moments in Practice
Some of the most meaningful experiences of her training have been the variety of clinical placements: from General Surgery to Dialysis, and from Long-Term Care to the OR.
“Providing care is always the best part,” she says. “But collaborating with nurses across so many specialties really showed me the strength of teamwork. Speaking with skilled nurses in their departments speaks volumes.”
Balancing Life, Hockey, and Clinicals
As a parent, time management has been one of the biggest challenges of nursing school.
“I knew it would be tough to organize life,” she admits. “During hockey season, I’m often on the road with one kid or another.”
Marnie has developed creative coping strategies, including studying at the rink. “Whether in a dressing room or a vehicle, I find a place to make it work.”
One particularly tough day stands out. “My husband was away, two kids were up sick most of the night, and I still showed up for a 12-hour clinical shift.”
Looking Ahead to Acute Care—and Beyond
Set to graduate in 2026, Marnie’s post-graduation path will begin with a posting by the Canadian Armed Forces, most likely in an acute care setting in a major city.
“That fast-paced environment—where you need to solve problems quickly and make informed decisions—is right up my alley,” she says. Eventually, she’s considering returning to school to become a Nurse Practitioner.
What Matters Most
Above all, Marnie wants to be known as a nurse who is both competent and compassionate.
“I want patients to leave my care feeling truly well cared for,” she says. “That’s what matters most to me.”