What profession did you enter into, and what would you consider to be your greatest joy about doing the work you do?
I am a Certified Prosthetist and Orthotist. My greatest joy is getting to know our patients and see the improvements we can make in their lives. I often say we are probably the only profession who gets invited to birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and sadly, funerals.
What led you to become involved with ISPO?
ISPO membership offers tremendous resources and access to a very large network of international Certifiees, Technicians and other associated health care providers. Exploring new, innovative and optional treatment plans for my patients to provide better care. After attending POEM in Sweden, my emphasis was to understand the educational processes of other countries and how they could be applied to Canada.
What impact do you think ISPO has had on persons accessing assistive devices and rehabilitation services?
ISPO provides global standards for education and training for Prosthetists, Orthotists, Therapists etc. These standards provide a basis to improve the standard of care for persons accessing prosthetic and orthotic care regardless of where they live in the world. The promotion of multidisciplinary and evidence based practise strengthens the collaboration and knowledge
which directly affect individuals requiring Orthotic and Prosthetic treatment.
Are there any current professional projects that you are engaged in?
One of my personal goals is moving the profession towards a MScOP as member of the Prosthetic and Orthotic PACs at BCIT and GBC. I am a Prosthetic and Orthotic consultant for WorkSafeBC and Indigenous Services Canada where I advocate for the profession. I provide medical legal opinions for law firms for individuals requiring prostheses and orthoses.
Can you offer any advice to recent graduates and students in your chosen profession?
Have an open mind. You can learn something from anyone. Our profession is unique in that we spend a lot of time with our patients. You can develop a rapport with some individuals. When these individuals pass away, especially children, it can greatly affect you. Take care of your health first.
What are your hobbies and activities outside of your professional life?
I am preparing to walk another Camino de Santiago. I enjoy overland camping in our roof top tent, cycling, snowboarding, skiing and hockey. Most of all I enjoy cooking dishes from all over the world for my grandkids, children and friends
Any other comments or thoughts you would like to share?
I consider myself very luck to have had a career where I could help people and be a part of their lives. Being associated with so many incredible Certifiees, Technicians, Therapists and Physicians dedicated to improving our patients lives is humbling. Being part of ISPO has allowed me to meet people from all around the world. Some have become long time friends.
The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics Canada 