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At just 14-years-old, Kelsey LeJeune was admitted to CHEO following a serious stroke. For Kelsey, this was the beginning of a long road to recovery – from a stay in the pediatric intensive care unit, to outpatient rehabilitation with Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and many other follow-ups with a variety of specialists.
Subsequently, Kelsey underwent a heart repair and multiple surgeries on her foot and ankle. Her stroke had caused dystonia – involuntary muscle contractions – which made walking very difficult.
The time Kelsey spent in and out of CHEO as a teenager left a lasting impact. Reflecting on her health journey Kelsey remembers, “I met many people along the way who were dedicated to giving me the best life possible.”
That’s when she knew she wanted to work at CHEO.
It was the people of CHEO who inspired her – the staff, medical staff and learners. “Everyone went out of their way to make a difference for me – I wanted to grow up to make a difference too,” shares Kelsey. “I wanted to be a person who was kind and caring, who would go out of their way to help a child and their family when they were struggling the most.”
Kelsey left a full-time job a Registered Early Childhood Educator with the school board to take a temporary contract at CHEO in 2019. Even though she had a lot to learn, Kelsey was grateful for supportive coworkers.
“Working as an educator in CHEO’s preschool made me realize you never stop learning. I’m appreciative of learning opportunities that allow me to improve, and I’m proud to say I work at CHEO,” says Kelsey, “I think CHEO offers children and their families a place to feel safe and cared for during what is probably the most difficult time of their lives.”
For Kelsey, one of her favourite CHEO memories is getting to see so many members of her care team from the days when she was a patient. Dr. Willis is the reason she can walk today, and she appreciates getting to see him every now and then to say a quick “Good morning”.
CHEO is filled with inspiring stories, and people, like Kelsey. Join us.