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
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 Blair's journey from being a Developmental Service Worker (DSW) to becoming an entrepreneur was one driven by compassion, resilience, and an unwavering desire to meet the healthcare needs of her community.
From an Early Learning Resource Teacher to a Mobile Nurse
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 (Sarnia Collegiate Institute & Technical School), she attended St. Clair College, where she earned her DSW (Developmental Service Worker) diploma. Her first job after graduation was as a resource teacher with a children’s health center working within the First Nations community.
Despite her deep fulfillment in working with what she refers to as "children with exceptionalities", Blair felt a calling to return to school. Juggling her job at the children’s health center, she went back to pursue her RPN designation. The transition into nursing seemed like a natural evolution of her desire to help others, and soon Blair found herself working as a nurse at a local hospital, rotating between the Emergency Room and Mental Health and Addictions departments. After her experience at the hospital, she transitioned into long-term care before getting back to her roots of pediatrics and starting “On the Go Nurse”.
A Personal Tragedy Shapes a New Perspective
In 2017, Blair’s life was turned upside down. In the span of just one week in October, she experienced both heartache and joy—her father passed away after a difficult 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, her smile dimming for the first time during our conversation. "Losing my father was devastating, but at the same time, watching my mother navigate the healthcare system to care for him opened my eyes to how much is asked of caregivers."
Her father’s illness brought Blair face to face with the challenges that many families face when dealing with long-term, debilitating conditions. "There were so many things my mother had to manage—doctor’s appointments, specialists, filling out forms, managing medications, and just trying to keep track of everything. It was like she had a full-time job as a caregiver," Blair explained. "That experience made me realize that there are so many gaps in our healthcare system, and that’s what sparked the idea for 'On the Go Nurse.'"
The Birth of "On the Go Nurse"
Launched to serve the communities of Sarnia, Lambton, and Kent Counties, "On the Go Nurse" is a mobile nursing service that brings healthcare to people’s doorsteps. From routine nursing care like ear irrigation and foot care to more specialized services like wound care and respite for caregivers, 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. "Or sometimes, they just aren’t physically able to get to a doctor’s office. That’s where I come in."
Blair’s services are particularly helpful for patients who struggle with mobility issues, as well as for caregivers who need a break. "Caregiver burnout is real," she said. "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."
One of the most rewarding aspects of her job, Blair shared, is the education she provides to her patients. "A lot of people don’t realize what their benefits cover, especially when it comes to things like foot care or respite services. With years of experience in the medical field, Blair takes the time to walk her patients through the sometimes complex world of healthcare benefits, ensuring they understand what services are available to them.
A Passion for People
As we continued our conversation, it became clear that 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 know that I genuinely care about them, and they trust me to look out for their well-being."
Blair’s extroverted and approachable nature makes it easy to see why her patients are so loyal. Throughout our chat, her smile rarely wavered, and her enthusiasm for her work was infectious.
Blair recounted one instance where a simple conversation led to a crucial discovery. "I was visiting a patient for a routine service, and during our chat, they mentioned some unusual symptoms they were experiencing. It turned out to be something more serious, and I was able to get them the help they needed before things got worse," she said.
Bridging the Gap in Healthcare
Blair’s mobile nursing service isn’t just convenient—it’s necessary. 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. "So many people just don’t have the ability to make it to a doctor’s office, whether it’s because of mobility issues, transportation problems, or even just the long wait times."
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 a lot of older adults who might not have family nearby to help them.
A Vision for the Future
As "On the Go Nurse" continues to grow, Blair has big plans. She’s already looking at ways to expand her services, including partnering with other healthcare professionals to offer even more comprehensive care to her patients. "I’m always thinking about how we can make things better," she said. "There’s so much potential to do more, whether it’s adding new services or finding new ways to reach people who need care." But no matter how much her business grows, Blair’s focus will always be on the people she serves. "
As I wrapped up my conversation with Blair, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by her dedication to her community and her vision for a better healthcare system. "On the Go Nurse" is more than just a business—it’s a lifeline for many in Sarnia and the surrounding counties. And with Blair Anderson at the helm, it’s clear that this mobile nursing service is just getting started.
In a world where healthcare is often complex and inaccessible, Blair Anderson is proving that sometimes, all it takes is a caring heart, a willing spirit, and a passion for making a difference—one patient at a time. For more information visit https://www.onthegonurse.com/.
“Humans of Sarnia” founder Art Connolly is a man fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people in Sarnia. Inspired by the renowned “Humans of New York” series, with a camera in hand, he captures the very essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens.
“Humans of Sarnia” founder Art Connolly is a man fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people in Sarnia. Inspired by the renowned “Humans of New York” series, with a camera in hand, he captures the very essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens.