Professionals Making A Difference
Susan Brooks is one of the many members working throughout the province in the PEA’s Health Science Professionals Chapter. As the only Local Rep on North Vancouver Island, Susan understands the need for promoting a culture of engagement within the PEA.
PEA Chapter
Health Science Professionals (HSP)
Profession
Community Physiotherapist
What that means
Basically, I provide consultative and limited rehabilitation services to patients in their homes. I assess their functional mobility, safety, and make recommendations on exercise programs, walking aides, equipment, home support services, and home adaptations to keep them at home and safe for as long as possible.
What do you mean by exercise programs?
I really believe if you don’t use it you will lose it, so I work to get my clients interested in community programs to keep them active and involved
Career path to date
I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Medicine from UBC. I then worked in hospitals and private practices for years. From there, I became interested in front-line work (this was naturally the next step). I’ve been in my current position for seven years. Before that, I worked in Cumberland Health Centre in an Outpatient department and served as the HSA Steward.
Outside of work
I am a total horse-enthusiast. My husband and I train our own horses – Red and Beau. I’m also big into a natural lifestyle, meaning I love to garden and cycle. And just like everyone else, I love hanging out with my family.
Family life
I live in Courtenay with my husband, my cat, and two horses. One daughter works for the newspaper in Bella Coola and the younger one is a Care Manager at VGH.
PEA Involvement
I was the only PEA member in the Home and Community Care office in Campbell River and rarely heard from other members. I am very pleased the PEA has started to have regional meetings and conference calls and look forward to being more involved.
Views of the PEA
Unlike HSA, where most of the members work in medical facilities and share a common language and background, PEA members have diverse occupations and workplaces. It seems like I never cross paths with another PEA member. These are real challenges for our union and I am pleased to see the work they are doing to address this.
Long-term goals
As a professional, I’d like to make it as easy as possible for my patients to get the service they require. As a person, I’d like to grow in equanimity and mindfulness.
