Abby Osborne’s connection with Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital started over 20 years ago when she first took swimming lessons at its pool. Now, as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) and physiotherapy assistant (PTA) on the Get Up and Go (GUAG) team, she supports carrying out treatment plans for children and youth with persistent pain.
Children with persistent pain (defined as lasting longer than three months) often face challenges with daily function and participation in meaningful activities. As Canada’s only persistent pediatric pain service with both an inpatient and day program component, GUAG has supported families for close to 10 years through individualized, effective care plans developed by an interdisciplinary team.
Abby’s role involves seeing clients daily in one-on-one sessions to focus on individual goals, as well as in group sessions where clients can learn and practice coping strategies alongside their peers.
Abby’s outstanding work as a clinician has earned her a nomination for a STAR Award (Showing Thankfulness, Appreciation and Respect) under the “Rising Star Clinical Excellence” category.
“Joining the Get Up and Go team has provided me with daily opportunities to learn and grow, both as a person and as a professional,” Abby remarks. “And being nominated for a STAR Award means a lot to me, as it reminded me of how grateful I am to be working with this population and team.”
Read on to learn more about Abby:
What attracted you to work at Holland Bloorview and what has your journey looked like so far?
My journey started over 20 years ago when I took swimming lessons here. Since then, I’ve been involved in a handful of other roles, including volunteering with the Foundation in middle school, completing a student placement in the IET (Integrated Education and Therapy) program, and working multiple summers with the Employment Pathways program.
Having been involved with all these programs, I got to see everyone’s collaborative spirit and commitment to helping clients achieve their goals, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that.
What does a typical day look like for you when supporting clients and families?
During sessions with clients, I get the chance to address topics, some of which include sleep education, pacing/energy conservation, self-advocacy and the importance of physical activity while living with persistent pain. You might see me with clients in the kitchen, the pool, the therapy gyms or even out in the community.
In between sessions, I document their progress, prepare for upcoming sessions and connect with other members of the GUAG team to ensure we continue to tailor treatment that meets our clients’ evolving needs.
How do you see your work making a difference in the lives of clients?
It’s great to help clients build confidence in managing their pain. Having the chance to see them come out of their shells and slowly increase participation in activities is really rewarding.
What moments or experiences stand out as especially meaningful in your role?
It’s hard to choose just one moment, but what stands out the most is hearing about when clients are using the newly learned strategies/coping tools in activities they do outside of the program. The last weekend before discharge is usually when I’ll hear about clients getting back to activities they wouldn’t have attempted a few weeks earlier.
Seeing them take what they’ve learned and practiced here and apply it to parts of their life that matter most really sticks with me.
How do you stay motivated and continue growing in your profession?
Working at Holland Bloorview has given me the chance to connect with so many people that have taught me so much. Being surrounded by a team of amazing people who push me to grow and are constantly looking for creative ways to support our clients is very motivating! I also find myself constantly learning new things from the clients and families we provide care for, which keeps my work exciting and interesting.
Outside of work, are there any interests or passions you enjoy that people might not know about?
I love going to concerts, hockey games and seeing any live entertainment with friends and family.
