Employee spotlight: Nutrition Month!

Congratulations, Amanda Prizant! Thank you, and all your colleagues, for the excellent work you do.  Join us as we celebrate Nutrition Month in March and on March 20, Dietitian’s Day!  

What led you to becoming a dietitian?         

Firstly, I am a huge foodie! I love all foods, and I do not discriminate against any of them (except dill!). At the same time, I have a strong passion for science, the body, and for helping people. When I discovered that a program exists that combines all of those elements, I knew that it was what I wanted to do. Being able to help people through nutrition has brought me so much joy and fulfillment. Not everybody understands the power that nutrition has on our health, and being able to educate and implement that in an acute-care setting has been very meaningful. 

The Neuro is a hospital that is very dear to my heart. After having witnessed my grandfather suffer with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and seeing the amazing care the Neuro provided to him and to my family, I wanted to do my part to help patients and families like my own. The Neuro has allowed me to grow so much as a dietitian and as a person, and it has a special place in my heart because of the people that work here. 

What is the best advice that someone at the MUHC ever gave you?        

One of the most impactful pieces of advice I've received from a colleague at the MUHC is that while clinical skills and knowledge will continue to grow throughout our careers, it is compassion and understanding that are the most important aspects of patient care. This advice has resonated with me deeply, reminding me that behind every medical condition is a person in need of not just treatment, but also empathy and support. By prioritizing compassion in my practice, I believe I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients, particularly in a setting like ours, where patients face significant health challenges.   

Tell us about working with your fellow dietitians?   

 The team of dietitians at the Neuro is one of the main reasons why I love what I do. When I am having a hard day, I can always count on my colleagues to cheer me up. We constantly learn from one another and help each other without any judgement. I can’t imagine loving my job as much if they weren’t here!  

How do you like to relax and unwind after a shift?   

  After a shift, you can either find me spending time with my family (including my adorable nieces and nephew), doing an exercise class or reading a good romance book. One of the most important things the Neuro has taught me is to take time for myself, spend time with the people I love, and be grateful for every day.