The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics Canada

I’m a Certified Prosthetist and started my career in the GBC technical program in 1982.  I feel so blessed to have chosen a profession that brings me so much happiness, and I continue to enjoy volunteering in my retirement.

As a technician, I was able to create customized devices that helped individuals with their mobility and everyday activities.  As a clinician, I was given the opportunity to change people’s lives from infants to the oldest client I treated in her mid-90’s.  Seeing the big smiles on their and their families’ faces, when the care provided was successful, was very satisfying.  As an instructor and working for a manufacturer, I thoroughly enjoyed teaching and the connection with students and other professionals, learning from each other and knowing our future is brighter because of them.  As a Manager, I was very fortunate to work with a variety of skilled professionals from the front office, to all involved in providing care technically and clinically – helping them achieve their goals and be successful, brought me so much happiness.  Just seeing others succeed is an amazing feeling and knowing that I played a small part in their lives brings me so much joy!

Early in my career, I was able to connect with a researcher, manager, clinician and therapist and together we formed the ISPO Canada National Member Society.  It was the only multi-disciplinary organization that brought perspectives from a variety of professionals so that we could learn from each other globally. 

I have always been interested in the international sector, learning new things and meeting people from around the world, sharing our culture and perspectives.  As a student, I travelled globally and when I returned, shared my experiences.  I encourage and nominate our many diverse and talented members globally, ensuring they feel welcomed, respected and supported in committee work and on boards.

At our last World Congress, I was honoured to be voted in as the ISPO President-Elect.  As a recent retiree, I have more time to dedicate to the important role for this organization.  I continue to be a valuable contributor to the profession as I have the passion, energy and skills, along with key global networking and relationships.

I feel this is a great time to be actively involved with ISPO, and constantly engage other professionals and global members to share their unique perspectives, so that their voice is being heard, and they are able to make meaningful contributions, especially at this important time as we strategically plan for our future.  

ISPO is a multidisciplinary organization, partnering with WHO and other international organizations to develop standards, guidelines and advocating for improved access to high-quality, affordable assistive products globally.  ISPO works with a large number of partner organizations to improve the quality of life for persons with impaired mobility.  I was fortunate to be involved in a discussion at the recent OT World in Leipzig, on ISPO’s collaboration with global organizations for emergency response in post-disaster and conflict situations to ensure access to assistive health technology world-wide.

I’m actively involved in founding the Special Interest Groups (SIG) with ISPO.  We recently launched two SIG’s:  Special Interest Group for Bone Anchored Limbs (SIGBAL) and Special Interest Group for Upper Limb (SIGUL).  Where like-minded individuals with a shared passion and expertise come together to drive meaningful change and innovation in their respective fields.  The SIG groups provide a dynamic platform for collaboration, discussion, and problem-solving within specialized areas of interest globally.

Be open-minded and never stop learning – the more we learn the more we grow.  Share your creative ideas and continue to be innovative.  The end result will be better outcomes for those we serve!

I’m very fortunate to be able to travel around the globe, and when I return home, I try and re-create the many amazing dishes I’ve tasted!  I also volunteer in my community, love spending time with family, and enjoy painting, golfing, music and dragon boating.