What to know
- A beloved St. Michael’s Hospital emergency nurse, Brenda Tash, retired after more than 30 years of service and was surprised by colleagues with an emotional sendoff in the ER.
- Dozens of staff lined the hallway in a “spirit tunnel” to honour Tash’s compassion, dedication, and impact on patients and coworkers.
- Hospital leaders and colleagues praised Tash as the heart of the hospital as she looks forward to rest after decades of demanding night shifts.
An emergency nurse at a Toronto hospital was given her flowers, literally, as she retired following more than three decades of service.
St. Michael’s Hospital nurse Brenda Tash hung up her lanyard near the end of 2025.
In a social media post by the St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation, dozens of Tash’s colleagues could be seen lining a hallway in the emergency department as a supportive surprise spirit tunnel.
In an email to Now Toronto, Chief of Emergency Medicine Dr. Steve Lin said Tash embodied the heart of St. Michael’s hospital.
“Her compassion, commitment, and unwavering care for every patient and family she encounters have left a mark on all of us,” said Lin. “She reminds us why our work matters, not just the care we provide but the humanity behind it. Brenda has been the kind of colleague who lifts everyone around her, and her impact will be felt here for decades to come.”
Lin added Tash represents what makes the hospital special, with her values and exceptional care without exception.
Some comments boasted Tash’s work ethic and kindness further.
“Brenda is amazing,” said one user. “She was an absolute asset to the organization, and a dear friend and colleague to me for the last 17 years. The place won’t be the same without her.”
Another user spoke to Brenda’s positivity in the workplace.
“So proud of Brenda!!! She came in to work every day with a smile and gratitude!”
In the social media video, Tash addressed the crowd in tears following her big surprise.
“We always stay together,” said Tash. “We’re dysfunctional but we always stay together and we’re family.”
Tash said she looks forward to getting some rest in and seeing the daylight again after 20 years of service in the emergency department, working countless night shifts.
