Samantha Van Bommel

I’m Sam and I am very proud to be part of the West Hill Midwifery team.

My interest in midwifery began while I was completing my science degree with the University of Ottawa. Two midwives were speakers at an event I attended and it was their stories that initially sparked my curiosity for the field. I was compelled and excited by the idea of working mostly with women and having the opportunity to create positive experiences for a group that so often feels undervalued in healthcare.

After a year of volunteering as a birth companion, I was accepted into McMaster University’s midwifery program. The more I learned and worked with people in various communities, the more I grew to love the profession. I enjoy building relationships with clients and seeing how empowered people feel making choices about their care. It’s a privilege to be able to advocate for and provide opportunities for women. I cannot think of another job that would be as fulfilling as this one.

Before I started working as a midwife, one of the ways I helped put myself through school was by tree planting in the summer. I did four seasons of planting in BC, working primarily in the areas surrounding Prince George, Vanderhoof, Willam’s Lake and Mackenzie. I fell in love with the landscape and the people. I also met my partner while working in the bush, so it only made sense for me to officially make the move to call this place home.

I look forward to working with the lovely people in this community and learning more of what the area has to offer!