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Feature: Constable, lifesaver and mom

Name: Heather Cosenzo
Occupation: Community policing and victim services constable
Year joined RCMP: 2007

1.What is your idea of perfect happiness?

This is a tough question! I am very happy when I am with my family, but I would say I am the happiest when we are all together on a beach!

2. What is your greatest fear?

My greatest fear is that people won't realize the impact they are having on the land and the waterways … and spiders!

3. What is your favourite thing to do in NWT?

I have really enjoyed camping and hiking throughout the NWT.

4. Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

My kids would probably say that I overuse the phrase “that is totally inappropriate behaviour.”

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what is it?

This isn't about me specifically, but if I would bring all my extended family with me to each posting. I don't get to see my family on a regular basis and wish my kids had grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins close by.

6. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Being a police officer, and a specific example was last year I was presented with a Commanding Officers Commendation for Outstanding Service for saving someone's life. It was a special moment for me. This was from a file in Whitecourt, Alta., – prior to me being posted in Yellowknife.

7. What is your most treasured possession?

The memories I've made (and continue to make) with my kids, husband, family and friends.
8. What do you value most about your friends? I value that they are always there for me, even when I miss special events or holidays due to work!

9. Which person or group of people, living or dead, do you most admire and why?

I admire so many people, but I would say as a group I admire those who take the time to volunteer within their communities. I know that I am so thankful to those who volunteer in programs that my kids are involved in, for instance hockey, and I truly appreciate the time and commitment they have given to allow these programs to run smoothly. I also greatly admire teachers and those working within the education system.

Photo courtesy of Heather Cosenzo. When Const. Heather Cosenzo – pictured here at a school in Ndilo – isn't fulfilling her duties as a an RCMP community policing and victim services constable in Yellowknife, she enjoys camping in the territory and spending time with her family – preferably on a beach.