Laura de Laforest has always been driven by a deep desire to help others. As a Social Worker at the Daly Pavilion, she brings a wealth of experience and a passion for advocacy to her role, ensuring that patients receive not only emotional and mental support but also access to critical resources that empower them on their journey to recovery. Before transitioning to social work, Laura spent 15 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges individuals face when navigating the healthcare system. Her commitment to social justice and advocacy led her to social work, where she now plays a vital role in crisis intervention and patient support.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Laura’s work is assisting individuals who must travel for medical treatment. Many of these patients are already experiencing significant distress, and the financial and logistical burdens of travel only add to their anxiety. Laura helps connect them with financial assistance programs, arranges free transportation, and provides counseling to ease their emotional burden. By removing these barriers, she allows patients to focus on their treatment without the added weight of financial and logistical stress.
In her time at the Daly Pavilion, Laura has seen the growing impact of homelessness and the drug overdose crisis on the community, further reinforcing the urgent need for enhanced mental health support. This is why the Mental Health Matters campaign holds such significance for her. She sees it as a crucial step in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and advocating for better resources for those in need.
Laura is especially excited about the modernization of the unit, which will incorporate a patient-centered design to create a more therapeutic environment. She believes that a well-designed space can significantly reduce stress, promote healing, and improve patient outcomes.
“A space that feels safe and supportive can make all the difference in someone’s recovery journey,” she says.
To those considering supporting the campaign, Laura offers a simple but powerful message: mental health care is essential, and everyone deserves access to an environment that fosters healing. By contributing, donors are helping to create a space that not only meets the needs of patients but also supports staff in delivering the best possible care.
Outside of work, Laura finds peace in the outdoors, embracing the natural beauty that surrounds the community she serves. Her dedication to helping others extends beyond the walls of the hospital, as she continues to advocate for a future where mental health care is accessible, compassionate, and stigma-free.
Donate today and help us transform mental health care in our community.