Winnipeg - Congratulations to Laurie Read who recently was awarded a "Woman of Distinction" award by the YWCA.

A total of 53 women were nominated in 10 categories ranging from arts and culture to recreation and volunteerism. This is the 31st year the awards have been held.

Laurie is the managerof the Grace Hospital's active outpatient clinic, and has worked at the hospital since 1982. She's also the clinical manager of the Grace Hospice since 2004. She has studied holistic views of palliative care and is recognized for her sensitive approaches to people living with ilness as well as their families.