When Michelle joined Holland Bloorview 17 years ago as a nursing student on the brain injury rehabilitation team (BIRT), she quickly realized that this was where she was meant to be. Drawn to the strength and determination of the young clients she serves, she finds herself inspired by their courage and resilience. Over the years, Michelle transitioned from a registered nurse to clinical operations manager for multiple departments, including specialized orthopedic and developmental rehab (SODR), complex continuing care (CCC), respiratory therapy (RT), child life and Get Up and Go (GUAG), leading and guiding specialized teams through complex challenges.
Michelle’s pride in her team, her belief in Holland Bloorview’s mission and her personal experience as a parent to a child with health challenges, fuel her daily work. “We are responsible for someone’s entire world,” she reflects. This thought drives her dedication around creating an environment of trust, empathy and excellence. For Michelle, Holland Bloorview isn’t just a workplace—it’s a community where she has grown, led and made a difference in the lives of the children and families she serves.
Read more about her reflections on her journey, her inspiration and her vision for the future at Holland Bloorview.
Can you briefly tell us about yourself and your role(s) at Holland Bloorview?
I started as a nursing student on the brain injury rehabilitation team (BIRT) in 2007 and fell in love with Holland Bloorview. I was hired full-time as a registered nurse on the specialized orthopedic and developmental rehab (SODR) unit in 2008, became the clinical resource leader in 2012, and then the operations manager of SODR in 2019. After my second maternity leave of absence (MLOA) in 2022, I returned as the clinical operations manager of complex continuing care (CCC), respiratory therapy, child life and Get Up and Go (GUAG).
What attracted you to work at Holland Bloorview?
The clients are what drew me in. I love working with children and admire their passion, courage, resilience and determination. The staff also play a significant role; they work here because they want to, not because they have to. The environment is inviting, and despite challenges, everyone is dedicated to what’s best for the clients and their families.
What does a typical day look like for you in your current role?
I start early, checking in with the nurses/registered respiratory therapists, then log into my computer to check emails and my calendar, which is filled with meetings. I work closely with my admin colleague to stay organized. I round on the unit, check in with our clinical resource leader, and attend the daily rehab and CCC huddle at 8:30 a.m. My day involves meetings, collaborating on current issues and setting teams up for success with upcoming projects and changes. I often meet with staff on a 1:1 basis to check in and provide support and feedback as needed.
How has your career grown here?
My career has evolved from frontline nursing to management. I’ve had immense support from dedicated preceptors to mentors and my family and opportunities for education and leadership roles. This environment has allowed me to thrive and continue learning.
Can you share some of the major projects you are currently leading?
I’m leading various projects that currently overlap with others. Some of which consist of the work being done on the models of care on the complex continuing care unit, the CCC/respite work and patient complexity tool. These initiatives play a role in how we use data and analytics, collaboration, strategic planning and dedicated working groups to making informed decisions. The hopes are that these changes will impact the care we provide in a positive way by enhancing our current practices.
What is most challenging about your job and how do you manage these challenges?
Systematic barriers such as resource allocation or funding models can create barriers. The team often approaches me with ideas and rationale for why certain resources are needed. It can be challenging to find a middle ground as I have a financial responsibility that lies within my role. I often have to make decisions that support the best practice while absorbing the financial responsibility of my decisions.
What are some of the most memorable moments you’ve experienced here?
Seeing the impact of our clinical activities and projects on clients and their families is incredibly rewarding. One memorable moment involved a client who sustained a life-changing injury, leaving her unable to move most of her body. Despite this, she brought light to every challenge and supported her mother through the new norm. At just 15, she had a profound impact on everyone around her, encouraging us to see the positive in everything. Her resilience and perspective on life are inspiring, and knowing how far she has come is incredibly rewarding. Her journey grounds and humbles me, reminding me of the impact we can have.
What drives you to do the work that you do at Holland Bloorview?
I’m inspired to be part of something bigger than myself. As a parent of a child with health challenges, the mission to create awareness of disability is personal and rewarding. It’s fulfilling to contribute to positive societal change.
The mission and values of Holland Bloorview align with my personal beliefs. Being part of this organization adds value to who I am and keeps me grounded. That’s what makes Holland Bloorview special to me.
What are you most proud of in your time with the organization?
This is a tough one because there are so many things I’m proud of. However, the clinical teams stand out the most. They amaze me daily with their ability to creatively and collaboratively find solutions to challenges and systemic barriers. For instance, when working with the respiratory therapy team, we faced unforeseen staffing challenges. Together, we strategized on resource allocation while maintaining quality care, and they even won a STAR award during this period. It’s heartening to see clinicians support each other through tough times, fostering an environment where vulnerability is met with compassion and support.
Looking ahead, what impact do you hope to continue making, both personally and as part of your team?
I hope to continue leading the teams in the right direction, making a positive impact on future leaders and influencing decision-making. A conversation with my family about a work situation made me realize the immense responsibility we have at Holland Bloorview—we are responsible for someone’s entire world. As a parent of a child who frequently uses the health-care system, I understand the importance of trusting health-care teams. I aim to highlight this responsibility while providing the necessary support and tools to deliver optimal care.
