I’ve been working as a Respiratory Therapist since 2009 with a focus on sleep medicine and community care. Working with the PROP team was a dream of mine since moving to BC in 2018 and I was honored and excited to join the team in 2021. My work with PROP has been some of the most rewarding work in my career as a respiratory therapist. I look forward to growing my skills with the team and meeting more of PROP’s inspirational members across this beautiful province as I do.
Michael (Mike) was born in Sapporo, Japan and moved to Canada at a young age. After graduating from Thompson Rivers University with a diploma in Respiratory Therapy he worked in acute care at the Royal Columbian Hospital for 7 years before joining the PROP Team. Mike has also worked in smaller community hospitals such as Lion’s Gate Hospital and Peach Arch Hospital giving him different experiences and perspective of optimizing Respiratory care. Mike and his lovely wife, Adonica, have a large Bernedoodle named Kiwee that keeps them active and constantly at the dog park. Mike has a passion for education and enjoys sharing his Respiratory knowledge with others; coupled with his critical care experiences makes Mike a valued Respiratory Therapist at PROP.
I joined TFL in the spring of 2022 as a TIL technician in Kelowna. Since that time, I have been inspired by both the colleagues I work with and the people we serve. Every day is a learning experience as I work my way through the process of providing assistance to our members. I have learned so much about the lives of persons living with diverse abilities and the technology that can be used to enhance their independence. I have found the work to be very rewarding and feel that this work has enriched my life as well as the lives of the people we serve. I have a M.Sc. degree in physics and before joining TFL, I worked as a medical physicist for 35 years in the cancer centres in Regina and Kelowna. I have lived in Kelowna since 2006 and greatly enjoy the Kelowna lifestyle. I am an avid hockey player and also enjoy biking, kayaking, golf, and woodworking.
I joined Technology for Living as an Assistive Technologist in 2020 where I worked out of George Pearson Centre and had the privilege to work closely with many of our members. It has been a life changing experience to see first-hand how the technologies we provide enhance the quality of life and independence for people with disabilities. Seeing our members overcome physical barriers is truly rewarding and I am honoured to support them on this journey. During my free time, I like to spend time with family and family, learn about new technologies, and scroll through social media.
I have been working with Technology for Living on various projects for many years starting with acting as a peer partner and judge for the Simon Cox Student Design Competition. My role has since grown to encompass attending Pathways to Independence meetings, representing Technology for Living at events and writing many articles in the Balance newsletter.
I am an active participant in the disability community and sit on the board of directors for the Canadian Assisted Travel Society (CATS). By persevering through my own personal challenges, with the assistance of the IFRC Society and a strong support network, I have lived independently for the past 10 years. It has not been an easy journey and I welcome the opportunity to support and share advice with everyone who needs it (as well as receive tips myself!). I will bring this wealth of lived experience to my role of Peer Community Advisor to aid our members in achieving their own goals of independence.
In my personal time I enjoy spending time with animals of all shapes and sizes. I have many years of experiencing competing in equestrian dressage. My life has forever been enriched by the companionship of two certified service dogs from Pacific Assistance Dogs (PADS) who help me be my best self. As a registered status member of the Heiltsuk Nation, indigenous issues are central to me. My background helps me I bring a unique perspective to the role which gives me the passion to advocate for respectful, equal access for all, in every walk of life.
I am excited to be part of the Peer Support Team; I have many exciting ideas and look forward to meeting with you at events and in the community!
I bridge the gap between technology and accessibility. As an Assistive Technology Consultant, I spearhead initiatives at Technology for Living and partner with Kinova Robotics. My goal is to develop meaningful technological solutions that empower individuals with disabilities. Drawing from my own experience with Spinal Muscular Atrophy III, my work is deeply rooted in a commitment to inclusivity and understanding.
Beyond the professional realm, I’m passionate about exploring 3D printed assistive tools and continuously refining my smart home setup. My two dogs bring immense joy and companionship, offering a wonderful balance to my technological pursuits.
At the heart of everything I do is a simple conviction: technology can and should create a more inclusive and supportive world for everyone.
With over 30 years of dedicated experience in the nonprofit sector across Canada and the UK, I have been proud to serve as the Executive Director at Technology for Living since 2015. My passion is in the non-profit sector and I am motivated by for Technology for Living’s mission and deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I enjoy working with the board and staff in learning more about the needs of our members and incorporating their feedback to enhance our service delivery. On a personal note, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential to me, that includes cycling, yoga, swimming and I prioritize regular workouts to stay balanced and focused.
RRT, MHSC, FSCRT
Working with PROP in the many capacities I have over the years, has been the singular highlight in my career as a Respiratory Therapist. Currently I provide Professional Practice services to PROP which means that I translate their unique community RT work into living documents that ensure safe and consistent practices, all of which support PROP members in living independent and active lives. In my 40 years as an RT, I have had the great opportunity to have worked in many diverse health care environments, in many different roles, all of which provide me with a unique skill set to help support PROP.
103–366 East Kent Ave. South
Vancouver BC, V5X 4N6