CHEO stories

Virtual reality studied to help manage anxiety during injections

CHEO is expanding its use of virtual reality (VR) to help children and youth with cerebral palsy who struggle with anxiety when receiving intramuscular-administered medication, part of a multi-site study on the benefits of VR as a distraction tool.

Kids with cerebral palsy (CP), the most common childhood motor disability, face higher-than-normal muscle tone. One of the treatment methods is botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, which relaxes the muscles.

Needles aren’t easy for kids and this treatment has

Read more

Elevating care as a physician assistant: Natalie’s Beauchamp’s story

Meet Natalie Beauchamp, a physician assistant in CHEO’s intermediate care unit (IMCU).

Natalie Beauchamp has experienced CHEO from both sides of bedside care. From ages six to 12, Natalie was a patient at CHEO and underwent multiple surgeries for ear, nose and throat issues. Today, she’s back at CHEO as a physician assistant (PA), helping children and families navigate their own medical journeys.

“Being a patient here gave me my first glimpse into hospital care,” Natalie said. “Now, seeing the...

Read more

Jackson Wu: Spreading kindness and finding connection at CHEO

Meet Jackson Wu, an environmental services attendant at CHEO.

Jackson Wu has been a beloved member of CHEO’s environmental services team since 2009. Initially drawn to CHEO for the chance to work closer to home in a steady, full-time position, Jackson had previously worked in personal support as a healthcare assistant at a retirement home, taking on part-time and unpredictable agency shifts.

“I wanted one significant place to be — somewhere I could come to work, do my job and know my hours,” he...

Read more

Jessica’s Journey to Becoming CHEO’s First Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner

Meet Jessica Romeo, a nurse practitioner in CHEO’s orthopedic surgery division. 

When Jessica Romeo was 13, she was diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), a condition that causes an abnormal curve in the spine. Left untreated, it can lead to posture changes, muscle weakness, and, eventually, heart and breathing problems requiring surgery.

Following her diagnosis, Jessica’s family was referred to CHEO’s orthopedic surgery clinic, where she met Dr. James Jarvis, an orthopedic spine surgeon. After...

Read more

Helping Children Live Their Best Lives Through Mobility and Independence

Meet France Bidal, an Occupational Therapist in Seating and Mobility.

Every child deserves to reach their full potential. This belief drives France Bidal in her work as an Occupational Therapist (OT) at CHEO.

For nearly 20 years, France has been helping children and youth gain independence through specialized mobility equipment. From custom wheelchairs to adaptive car seats, she empowers young people to move, explore and experience the world on their own terms

“I feel so lucky to witness these kids’...

Read more