I just returned from a stimulating three day’s conference in Vancouver. Elder Tania Dick inspired us all with tales of her life and her encouragement for us all to make a difference by working collaboratively with Indigenous peoples to incorporate better health outcomes for rural and remote and Indigenous populations. Having graduated as an RN, she went on to become a Family Nurse Practitioner and is an Indigenous consultant in many capacities. She received a spontaneous and enthusiastic standing ovation for her inspiring talk.

Andre Picard also emphasised that it was up to us individually and collaboratively to improve health and health care in Canada. “All things are possible” and we must overcome any barriers that stand in our way to make a positive difference. When approaching government or health associations, it is important that those in control see the benefit of the requests, such as the cost-effectiveness of closer to home therapy – with better health outcomes. He gave us many words of wisdom, such as these. All of the excellent plenary speakers challenged us to disrupt the status quo to prepare the health system for the future. This includes planning for the increasing age of the general population and the importance of maintaining mobility and active lifestyle.

Michel Landry, who is the President of World Physiotherapy, was the opening keynote speaker. It was Michel who founded the Global Health Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. I was also a founding member. Michel went on to become President of CPA and both he and I have received the Enid Graham Award, which is the highest award bestowed by the CPA and a great honour to receive. It is a privilege to be amongst these inspiring physiotherapists, including this year’s Enid Graham winner, Elaine Maheu. Apart from the informative lectures and workshops, animated networking is always a highlight of this annual conference.

I attended all the Global Health activities and enjoyed many energetic discussions on a variety of topics. I had the opportunity to promote my books, Mini Saga in South Africa, and was happy with the interest displayed in this travel memoir. There was also much interest in possible opportunities for student placements with Samuha in India, which is supported by our charity Samuha Overseas Development Association (SODA). http://www.samuha.ca

I was interviewed for another podcast by the Physiotherapy Association of BC, so the link to that may be included with my next post. My next opportunity for book promotions is at the Bear Lake craft fair on May 11th, where I have booked a table for Mini Saga in South Africa!