A calling in physiotherapy

Paula Demerson still remembers being a student in CEGEP who wanted to work in a health-related field. Her understanding of physiotherapy was minimal as a teenager, but she thankfully had heard enough about it to become interested. Physiotherapy remained a possibility in her eyes as she saw graduation from Marianopolis College on the horizon.

Afterwards at McGill University, Paula applied herself to her Physical Therapy program and completed key internships. She sometimes had moments of really enjoying her studies. Other times, she doubted whether she had picked the right path for herself.

She persevered, then made a job application to the MUHC. She was hopeful at the prospect of working in the public system. Paula began her career as a physiotherapist at the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH) to treat patients in need of improved mobility, range of motion, and muscle strength.

“It’s once I started working that I realized how much I loved the field,” she recalls. Paula began to love her job even more once she began to care for neurology patients, having been transferred to The Neuro within her first year. “That’s when I realized that it was sort of my calling,” she adds humbly. “I find the most fulfilment working in neurology.”

Paula has seen people go from hopelessness to hope. Many patients were able to walk or move again after thinking it would never be possible.

“I’ve seen patients in distress who say they’ll never be able to walk. Then, with time and physiotherapy, they’re able to get on their feet. Now, they have hope, which is vital.”

What does ‘We are the MUHC’ mean to you?

“To me, ‘We are the MUHC’ is defined by its people: the patients who show resilience and determination, the families who place their trust in us, and the colleagues who support one another through the challenges of healthcare. It reflects a culture grounded in compassion, respect, and collaboration.

“More than a place of care and research, the MUHC represents hope, dignity, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives,” she adds.

Every day, Paula feels proud to be part of the team, though not just for professional reasons.

“The MUHC is closely tied to my personal life, as it is where I had my children and have experienced some of my most meaningful life moments. My own connection to the hospital gives me a deep sense of belonging and responsibility in the work that I do each day.”

There are over 70 amazing physiotherapists, physiotherapy technologists, and kinesiologists working across adult and pediatric care at the MUHC.