“July first used to be called Canada Day, and now it’s called Jacques’ stroke day.”

After suffering a stroke, Jacques Lalonde was hospitalized for five days. His right hand and arm functionality were greatly impacted, and he was referred to GF Strong’s Intensive Rehabilitation Day Program (IRDP).

This month, the IRDP was honoured for service excellence as one of the 10 best B.C. rehab programs by the B.C. Brain Injury Association (BCBIA) at its annual Showcase and Celebration for Brain Injury. It’s an honour built on teamwork.

“I feel privileged to be working with a team of professionals who are not only genuinely dedicated to their clients’ wellbeing, but work amazingly well together for maximal patient outcomes,” says Dr. Jennifer Yao, medical manager of the Acquired Brain Injury Program.

Rehabilitating the whole person

GF Strong’s IRDP team: Front row: Dr Jacqueline Foley (physiatry), Dr. Sarah Meachen (psychology), Tara Keogh (social work), Romalyn Dolores(admin support) Back Row: Jonathon Russell (physio), Morio Shiono (OT), Shannon Di Iorio (SLP), Melanie Lewis (physio), Natalia Chambers (RA), Karen Wruck (SLP), Stacey Anutooshkin (OT)
Missing: Kelly Sharp (coordinator), Chris Palmer (manager), Dr Jennifer Yao (physiatry)

IRDP clients like Jacques typically spend four to six weeks — four to five days every week — in the outpatient program. Clients work with a team of clinicians who customize rehab activities and goals to address the unique needs of each client.

“The team works together in an interdisciplinary way to support and rehabilitate the whole person,” explains Shannon Di Iorio, speech language pathologist. “I’m continually inspired by the commitment and perseverance of our clients and the dedication of my colleagues.”

Psychologist Dr. Sarah-Jane Meachen agrees. “I often find that my clients teach me as much about coping as I teach them. I get to see resilience and courage in our clients every single day. Seeing how hard they work inspires me to try my best in everything I do.”

Relearning teaching techniques

For Jacques, his goals included sock puppetry and juggling, tasks he relishes as a Montessori teacher. “They wouldn’t give up on this hand,” he says. “They were relentless and patient at the same time.”

For more on Jacques’ story and why he thinks “the people at GF Strong were amazing,” click the play button below.