Our Dedicated Team
Meet the compassionate individuals who drive Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society's mission forward. Learn more about each team member below.
Chief Executive Officer
Andrea Critchley
International Speaker and Life Leadership Coach, President & Founder of Wonder Women Society, former ED of Women of BC/Yukon, PAOC and Capital Campaign Director of Tabor Village, Andrea is actively involved in her community and serves on the boards of Character Abbotsford and the International Humanitarian Hope Society. Her family, faith and friends are the center of her life and her passion is to make a difference in the lives of others. In 2025 Andrea was awarded the distinguished King Charles III Coronation Medal award in recognition of her commitment to enriching the lives of others, and for her long record of public service and care for others in the community. She is honoured to be part of the team that brings their skills and passion to support and care for the friends and families of Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society.
Chief Operations Officer
Susanne Driedger
Susanne works with teams to keep operations running smoothly and ensure families receive the right care at the right time. She brings more than 20 years of experience strengthening programs, guiding teams, and building practical systems in non-profit and higher-education settings, and she co-founded a career coaching practice supporting people through meaningful transitions. Grounded, thoughtful, and solution-oriented, Susanne turns ideas into action while helping teams focus on what matters most and contribute in ways that play to their strengths. Beyond work, she’s a mom of four and a proud “Gigi” to two grandsons who make sure she never misses a chance for curiosity, laughter or a good walk.
Palliative & Training Director
Susanne Fehr
Susanne joined Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society in February 2022. Susanne brings over 15 years of knowledge in healthcare and has experience with end-of-life care and anticipatory grief for loved ones experiencing loss who lived in care. With her background in healthcare, she supports our volunteers who enjoy sharing their time with our community. Away from work Susanne enjoys spending time with her husband and family. Her pride and joy are her grandchildren who she loves to spend as much time with as possible.
Legacy & Major Gifts Manager
Rick Barkwell
Rick started with the AHGSS team in 2021. He brings his lifetime of customer oriented service to the Society to ensure that the goals of AHGSS are matched with caring community donors. He believes in the mission of AHGSS to help people who are dying and support individuals and families who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
He has experienced firsthand how hospice helps individuals in their care and felt that now was his time to help in this cause. Rick is a past President of the Abbotsford-Sumas Rotary Club as well as a past board member of Abbotsford Minor Hockey.
Finance & Administration Manager
Scott Micona
Scott joined the Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society in 2026. He holds a CPA designation and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of the Fraser Valley. With ten years of accounting experience, Scott is dedicated to delivering accurate financial reporting and upholding strong fiscal stewardship. He is eager to contribute his expertise to the AHGSS team and support its operations through effective internal controls, process improvements, and commitment to financial transparency. Outside of work, Scott enjoys cheering on the Canucks, tackling home renovation projects, and exploring the outdoors with his family.
Grief Support Services Manager
Veronica Tod
Veronica Tod is the Grief Support Manager at Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society. In her professional role at hospice, she oversees programs and events for adults.
In 2004 Veronica received her diploma from Mount Royal College as a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer program. Over the past 20 years she has helped navigate families through the most difficult time of their lives and created meaningful tributes for their loved ones. Veronica brings a wealth of experience and expertise in grief management, having worked extensively in various capacities within her previous profession. Her commitment to fostering a supportive environment aligns seamlessly with the goals and values at Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and venturing out into the great outdoors.
Executive Assistant
Michelle Whalen
Michelle joined the team in 2020 having worked at several other non-profit organizations including long-term seniors care and children’s mental health. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Simon Fraser University. Her efforts include grant research and writing, communications and everything administrative. She is proud to work with the phenomenal team at Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society who provides incredible support and care for members of our community.
Volunteer Coordinator
Nancy Boese
Nancy became part of the team at AHGSS in 2024 as the Volunteer Coordinator. She first walked through the door of Holmberg House as a volunteer in training in 2022 and immediately felt at home. She has always been drawn to people experiencing grief and loss and believes no one should go through life and death alone. In her role, she keeps the deeply compassionate, generous community of AHGSS volunteers organized and active. It is her privilege to help build a place where people are seen, heard and loved through the most difficult situations. Both inside and outside of work, building relationships is her highest priority. She loves spending time with her husband, four grown children, and extended family and friends. Finding and creating beauty, reading and resting keep her grounded and grateful.
Finance & Administration Coordinator
Gurveer Sahota
Gurveer joined AHGSS in 2021 as a volunteer and in 2022 on staff as office coordinator and part of the Finance team. He has a heart for helping others and is the friendly face you see at the front desk when you enter Holmberg House. Gurveer speaks 5 different languages and is proud to support our culturally diverse community, making the care experience more personalized and dignified.
Away from work he enjoys spending time with friends and family, volunteering with his church, and running his own successful business.
Events & Community Manager
Arsh Kaler
Arsh is the founder and president of Smiles Through Seva Foundation, a youth-led organization empowering young people and raising over $120,000 through annual community galas. He also helped launch Kirpa Collective Society during the 2021 floods to support emergency relief efforts. Passionate about civic engagement, Arsh serves as secretary of the Fraser Valley Indo-Canadian Business Association and sits on several local committees, including the Business Innovation and Public Affairs Advisory Committee (BIPAAC) with the City of Abbotsford and the Student Awards Committee at the Abbotsford Community Foundation. He’s been featured in Darpan and Drishti Magazine, and was the youngest nominee for Entrepreneur of the Year by the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. Arsh is dedicated to building strong connections and creating lasting impact in the community he’s proud to serve.
Children & Family Services Manager
Christina Unruh
Christina joined Abbotsford Hospice Grief Support Society in 2025. With a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Theology and a background in the non-profit sector, she’s passionate about supporting families and children through grief and loss. Christina’s work blends her skills in emotional and compassionate care to help guide others during difficult times. She is excited to be a part of the team at AHGSS. Outside of work, Christina loves spending time with her husband, family, friends and church community.
Youth & Family Services Manager
Cindy Tobar
Cindy holds a Bachelor's in Counselling and is currently pursuing her Master's degree. As a licensed minister with the BC/Yukon PAOC district, she is dedicated to supporting the next generation. Passionate about meaningful conversations and showing love, she strives to create spaces where individuals feel valued and heard. Outside of work, she actively engages in community-building at her local church, one of her greatest passions. Grounded in faith, family, and friendships, she appreciates life’s simple joys: sunsets, music, and shared laughter. Through every interaction, she is committed to fostering hope and encouragement.
Palliative Care Volunteer Coordinator
Nina Sazhin
Nina serves as the Palliative Care Volunteer Coordinator at the Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society. With a strong academic foundation in Health Sciences and Biology, Nina brings both knowledge and empathy to her role. Her deep-rooted passion for nursing and caring for others has led her to walk alongside individuals and families during some of life’s most challenging moments. Known for her compassion and warmth, Nina is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. She believes in the power of community, kindness, and uplifting one another through even the most difficult times. Inspired by her faith, love for people, and a heartfelt calling to health care, Nina is pursuing her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. Beyond her professional aspirations, Nina finds joy and inspiration in travel. Her love for exploring the world fuels her curiosity and broadens her perspective, enriching both her personal and professional life.
Grant Coordinator
Makenna Loft
Makenna joined the AHGSS in May of 2022 after she graduated with her BA in Counseling. She has experience facilitating groups related to mental health and grief and loss, giving space and love for those who may be needing a safe space to navigate their feelings and emotions. She has had many roles within the Society over the last number of years and has returned to work as part of our development team where she provides support through her strong skills in administration and detail-oriented organization. She is passionate about helping the team continue its mission of offering compassionate care to individuals and families in our community. Outside of the office she loves to spend time reading, sipping on a coffee, spending time with her friends and Church community, and making memories with her husband and two little boys, which bring balance and joy to her busy life.
Community Coordinator
Jessica Banks
Jessica joined AHGSS in 2024. With a degree in Radio Broadcasting and Communication, she was eager to jump into the role of Community Coordinator on the Development team, connecting with others in the community to help the Society's mission. She has always had a passion and a big heart for helping people and feels as if she has landed in the right place. She is excited to be a part of such an incredible team at Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society.
While away from work she enjoys getting outdoors, being in the mountains, sports and her rescue dog Lewis.
Front Desk & Programs Coordinator
Cheryl Wiens
Cheryl joined the AHGGS as a volunteer after experiencing firsthand the value of the volunteers at Holmberg House when a family member passed away. She feels grateful to be part of a team that is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, who are experiencing loss and grief in our community. Outside of the office, she fills her time with her family- both near and far- playing the piano and reading.
Development Coordinator
Julie Charles
Julie is a devoted mom and passionate community builder who believes in bringing people together for meaningful impact. As a valued member of the development team, she helps cultivate strong relationships that support mission-driven work. Her heart for people and commitment to service shape everything she does.
Finance Associate
Hayman Bhullar
Hayman Bhullar is a Finance Associate with AHGSS, joining the organization in the summer of 2025 as a dedicated summer student. Deeply connected to the Abbotsford community, Hayman is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact and support others during some of life’s most challenging moments. His work at AHGSS reflects his commitment to compassionate service and strengthening community values he strives to uphold in every role he takes on. Hayman is currently completing his Bachelor of Business Administration, with plans to major in accounting.
Outside of work and academics, Hayman enjoys an active lifestyle. He loves spending time with friends and family, staying engaged in sports, especially basketball and soccer. Balancing professional ambition with personal fulfillment, Hayman strives to grow, contribute, and bring his best to both his community and his career.
Palliative Care Volunteer Coordinator
Daylia Friess
Daylia joined the Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society in 2026 and works alongside Nina as they share the responsibilities of the Palliative Care Volunteer Coordinator role. After completing the Society’s 12‑week training program, she gained a deep appreciation for the meaningful impact the organization has on residents, families, and the broader community.
In her role, Daylia supports volunteers and connects compassionately with families and individuals, offering presence and care during some of life’s most tender moments. Outside of work, she loves listening to music, camping, and spending quality time with friends and family. Daylia looks forward to growing in this role and continuing to build meaningful connections within the hospice community.
Children & Youth Services Coordinator
David Bakunda
David joined Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society in 2026. With a Bachelor's degree in counselling, David has a passion for seeing the next generation succeed. David is passionate about supporting Children and Youth work through grief and loss, by providing practical and relational care to youth in need. Outside of work, he loves to stay activate, whether that is hiking, running or soccer. David believes in the power of community and has personally experienced the lasting impact of healthy relationships through his local church.