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.
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.
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 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 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 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!
Marie spends most of her time on the Sunshine Coast these days but before that she was, in no particular order, a wannabe geologist, a freelance writer, documentarian and, more recently, an IT network and support technician for a non profit society and BCIT from 2002 to 2019. Marie loves history, novels, playing hockey, sailing and dogs. Dogs especially. She has a degree in Asian studies and Geography from Uvic and MA in Communication from SFU and diploma from BCIT.
Marie spends most of her time on the Sunshine Coast these days but before that she was, in no particular order, a wannabe geologist, a freelance writer, documentarian and, more recently, an IT network and support technician for a non profit society and BCIT from 2002 to 2019. Marie loves history, novels, playing hockey, sailing and dogs. Dogs especially. She has a degree in Asian studies and Geography from Uvic and MA in Communication from SFU and diploma from BCIT.
I started working with Technology for Living in 2020 as a technician helping our members with their technology. Through my interactions with our membership, I had the opportunity to hear their stories, learn from their experience, and discover my own passion for helping the community. Now, as Technology for Living’s Community Coordinator I work every day to help our community outreach programs such as Pathways to Independence & the Simon Cox Student Design Competition continue to flourish and provide our members with the knowledge, resources, and equipment they need to continue living successfully in their community. I hope to continue to share my own lived experience as a person with a disability (Spinal Muscular Atrophy II) with our members and am grateful whenever I have the chance to learn from my peers. In my personal time I run a small business primarily focused on 3D printed assistive technologies. I also enjoy spending time with my two dogs, reading books, and working on my smart home.
I started working with Technology for Living in 2020 as a technician helping our members with their technology. Through my interactions with our membership, I had the opportunity to hear their stories, learn from their experience, and discover my own passion for helping the community. Now, as Technology for Living’s Community Coordinator I work every day to help our community outreach programs such as Pathways to Independence & the Simon Cox Student Design Competition continue to flourish and provide our members with the knowledge, resources, and equipment they need to continue living successfully in their community. I hope to continue to share my own lived experience as a person with a disability (Spinal Muscular Atrophy II) with our members and am grateful whenever I have the chance to learn from my peers. In my personal time I run a small business primarily focused on 3D printed assistive technologies. I also enjoy spending time with my two dogs, reading books, and working on my smart home.
Joan Kluge has over 20 years of experience working in the public sector. She has general and financial management experience gained in positions at the non-profit, municipal and federal government levels. Joan has formal training in public policy and public administration, with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Victoria and a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations from the University of British Columbia. Joan is dedicated to the public sector and she loves helping non-profit organizations succeed. She is thrilled to join the team at Technology for Living! Joan originally hails from Port Alberni on Vancouver Island and currently lives in Ladner, BC with her husband and two young children.
Joan Kluge has over 20 years of experience working in the public sector. She has general and financial management experience gained in positions at the non-profit, municipal and federal government levels. Joan has formal training in public policy and public administration, with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Victoria and a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations from the University of British Columbia. Joan is dedicated to the public sector and she loves helping non-profit organizations succeed. She is thrilled to join the team at Technology for Living! Joan originally hails from Port Alberni on Vancouver Island and currently lives in Ladner, BC with her husband and two young children.
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.
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.
I have been connected to PROP for many years and remember the early days of the Program. Currently, I provide professional practice services to PROP and also work as one of the clinical on-call Respiratory Therapists. I also work as the CPAP Coordinator/Educator for the VCH Sleep Disorders program and as an accreditation surveyor for both Accreditation Canada and the BC Diagnostic Accreditation Program. I hold a master’s degree in Health Sciences (Athabasca) as well as a fellowship with the CSRT. I also have a long history of volunteering with both the provincial (BCSRT) and national (CSRT) professional groups. I am a peer reviewer for the CSRT journal and the current president of the BCSRT.
I have been connected to PROP for many years and remember the early days of the Program. Currently, I provide professional practice services to PROP and also work as one of the clinical on-call Respiratory Therapists. I also work as the CPAP Coordinator/Educator for the VCH Sleep Disorders program and as an accreditation surveyor for both Accreditation Canada and the BC Diagnostic Accreditation Program. I hold a master’s degree in Health Sciences (Athabasca) as well as a fellowship with the CSRT. I also have a long history of volunteering with both the provincial (BCSRT) and national (CSRT) professional groups. I am a peer reviewer for the CSRT journal and the current president of the BCSRT.
I joined Technology for Living as a Biomedical Engineering Technologist in 2006, shortly after the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) and the Technology for Independent Living Program (TIL) joined forces, and have had the privilege of seeing the 2 programs grow together. After an enjoyable day at the office, heading up the most amazing team of biomedical engineering technologists, there’s nothing better than spending some quality time with my family, playing hockey with the guys, or cheering on the local teams.
I joined Technology for Living as a Biomedical Engineering Technologist in 2006, shortly after the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) and the Technology for Independent Living Program (TIL) joined forces, and have had the privilege of seeing the 2 programs grow together. After an enjoyable day at the office, heading up the most amazing team of biomedical engineering technologists, there’s nothing better than spending some quality time with my family, playing hockey with the guys, or cheering on the local teams.
Miranda Whiteley has been a Respiratory Therapist for 15 years. She graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Human Biology from the University of Toronto before continuing her education at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences. Although she has worked in intensive care units, oxygen therapy, and CPAP therapy, she has found her work at the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) to be the most rewarding of her career. She started with PROP in 2011 and took a 5 year leave to pursue a Diploma and practice in Massage Therapy. Rejoining the team in 2021, Miranda is honored to be sharing the role of Team Lead with Sherry Shea.
Miranda Whiteley has been a Respiratory Therapist for 15 years. She graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Human Biology from the University of Toronto before continuing her education at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences. Although she has worked in intensive care units, oxygen therapy, and CPAP therapy, she has found her work at the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) to be the most rewarding of her career. She started with PROP in 2011 and took a 5 year leave to pursue a Diploma and practice in Massage Therapy. Rejoining the team in 2021, Miranda is honored to be sharing the role of Team Lead with Sherry Shea.
I have been a Respiratory Therapist for over 18 years and have been with the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) since the spring of 2015. Even though most of my career has been in Critical Care in Hospitals, joining the team here at the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) and working in the community has felt very natural. Problem solving, troubleshooting and collaborating with clients to support and foster autonomy and independence has always been a primary focus for me, one where everyone wins.
I have been a Respiratory Therapist for over 18 years and have been with the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) since the spring of 2015. Even though most of my career has been in Critical Care in Hospitals, joining the team here at the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) and working in the community has felt very natural. Problem solving, troubleshooting and collaborating with clients to support and foster autonomy and independence has always been a primary focus for me, one where everyone wins.
It feels like it was only yesterday when I joined the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program back in 2002. I have been fortunate and so proud to work with a dedicated team that shares the same passion of making a significant difference in people’s lives. The best part of my job is meeting our determined clients and devoted family members and care workers who continually are an inspiration to me. I love playing musical instruments in my spare time. I also enjoy creating simple works of art, using various media.
It feels like it was only yesterday when I joined the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program back in 2002. I have been fortunate and so proud to work with a dedicated team that shares the same passion of making a significant difference in people’s lives. The best part of my job is meeting our determined clients and devoted family members and care workers who continually are an inspiration to me. I love playing musical instruments in my spare time. I also enjoy creating simple works of art, using various media.
I have lived in the Okanagan since 1986 and have been a PROP client since 2001. I was also a Technology for Living board member for 6 years. I own and operate a small tech company, with a passion for independence through technology. In my free time I enjoy traveling overseas and volunteering with local non-profit organizations including the Tetra Society, Neil Squire Society and Muscular Dystrophy Canada. In 2016, I was proudly elected President of Kelowna’s Disabled Sailing Association of BC. Having Spinal Muscular Atrophy II, I have worked with and developed a wide range of assistive technology. I hope by collaborating with my peers we can continue to bring innovation to Technology for Living.
I have lived in the Okanagan since 1986 and have been a PROP client since 2001. I was also a Technology for Living board member for 6 years. I own and operate a small tech company, with a passion for independence through technology. In my free time I enjoy traveling overseas and volunteering with local non-profit organizations including the Tetra Society, Neil Squire Society and Muscular Dystrophy Canada. In 2016, I was proudly elected President of Kelowna’s Disabled Sailing Association of BC. Having Spinal Muscular Atrophy II, I have worked with and developed a wide range of assistive technology. I hope by collaborating with my peers we can continue to bring innovation to Technology for Living.
Dr. Road is a Professor of Medicine at UBC and a Respirologist at Vancouver Hospital and UBC. He is the Medical Director of the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program. His research interests include respiratory sleep and neuromuscular disorders, COPD and respiratory tract infections. His current area of basic research is respiratory muscle fatigue and injury in loaded breathing.
Dr. Road is a Professor of Medicine at UBC and a Respirologist at Vancouver Hospital and UBC. He is the Medical Director of the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program. His research interests include respiratory sleep and neuromuscular disorders, COPD and respiratory tract infections. His current area of basic research is respiratory muscle fatigue and injury in loaded breathing.
I officially joined the team at Technology for Living in October 2019 shortly after graduating from the Biomedical Engineering Technology diploma program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. After spending a month or so as a practicum student here, I fell in love with the main goal which is to help our clients live more independently through the provision of assistive technology and support. I knew I had to become a part of the team here and I have loved every second of it so far. As far as hobbies go, I enjoy being outdoors and watching or playing all kinds of sports including volleyball, baseball, and American football. I also listen to music whenever I can and I am constantly annoying my fellow team members with my humming and whistling.
I officially joined the team at Technology for Living in October 2019 shortly after graduating from the Biomedical Engineering Technology diploma program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. After spending a month or so as a practicum student here, I fell in love with the main goal which is to help our clients live more independently through the provision of assistive technology and support. I knew I had to become a part of the team here and I have loved every second of it so far. As far as hobbies go, I enjoy being outdoors and watching or playing all kinds of sports including volleyball, baseball, and American football. I also listen to music whenever I can and I am constantly annoying my fellow team members with my humming and whistling.
I was born in Poland. I came to Canada in 1991, and after graduating from the BCIT Biomedical Engineering program in 2006, was hired by BCITS as a biomed technician. In my spare time, I enjoy watching a good movie or reading an interesting book.
I was born in Poland. I came to Canada in 1991, and after graduating from the BCIT Biomedical Engineering program in 2006, was hired by BCITS as a biomed technician. In my spare time, I enjoy watching a good movie or reading an interesting book.
I have been with the Provincial Respiratory Outreach (PROP) team since July 2014. I have a Bachelor of Arts in English, which pairs nicely with my career as a Respiratory Therapist! In the last 10 years, I have been fortunate to meet many incredible people through the work I have done with adult and pediatric acute care, hyperbarics, research, and education. Since working with the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP), I have been inspired by the ingenuity and individuality impressed upon me by our clients. The work here has truly been most rewarding and I look forward to the ongoing journey of sharing knowledge and developing partnerships with the community.
I have been with the Provincial Respiratory Outreach (PROP) team since July 2014. I have a Bachelor of Arts in English, which pairs nicely with my career as a Respiratory Therapist! In the last 10 years, I have been fortunate to meet many incredible people through the work I have done with adult and pediatric acute care, hyperbarics, research, and education. Since working with the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP), I have been inspired by the ingenuity and individuality impressed upon me by our clients. The work here has truly been most rewarding and I look forward to the ongoing journey of sharing knowledge and developing partnerships with the community.
I have recently joined Technology for Living in November 2019, as the newest Biomedical Engineering Technologist. I graduated from BCIT’s Biomedical Engineering Technology Diploma program in 2019. Prior to that I have acquired a Bachelor of Applied Science in Integrated Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering and minoring in Biomedical Engineering from the University of British Columbia in 2015 and an Associate Certificate in Computer Aided Design at BCIT in 2017. Over my educational experience I have helped to develop a wide range of fully functional engineering prototype projects at both UBC and BCIT. One of which is being utilized today at Technology for Living, the Chameleon. I look forward to seeing how it may help improve the lives of our clients. In my spare time I enjoy a verity of hobbies, such as playing soccer, building custom furniture from scratch, traveling, hiking, reading comics, and playing video games.
I have recently joined Technology for Living in November 2019, as the newest Biomedical Engineering Technologist. I graduated from BCIT’s Biomedical Engineering Technology Diploma program in 2019. Prior to that I have acquired a Bachelor of Applied Science in Integrated Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering and minoring in Biomedical Engineering from the University of British Columbia in 2015 and an Associate Certificate in Computer Aided Design at BCIT in 2017. Over my educational experience I have helped to develop a wide range of fully functional engineering prototype projects at both UBC and BCIT. One of which is being utilized today at Technology for Living, the Chameleon. I look forward to seeing how it may help improve the lives of our clients. In my spare time I enjoy a verity of hobbies, such as playing soccer, building custom furniture from scratch, traveling, hiking, reading comics, and playing video games.
I am very excited to be joining the PROP team as the newest Respiratory Therapist. I’ve been working as an RT for a few short years but have gained a lot of experience working in different aspects of healthcare. I first worked in the crazy hustle and bustle of the hospital where I solidified my skills in all things respiratory. I then worked in the community where I learned how great it is to work one-on-one with the public as well as use all of my new found knowledge.
Noticing gaps in health care has been the most challenging aspect of my career thus far and I look forward to learning how I can further bridge those gaps. I have a passion for finding ways where quality of care and quality of life can intersect which makes PROP such a great fit for me.
Quality of life for me includes being outside enjoying nature with my 8 pound Maltese Yorkie, Nola. She loves to ride in her doggy backpack while I bike or rollerblade the seawall. I also enjoy listening to a good podcast and spending time with friends and family.
I am looking forward to meeting you all and learning how TFL is supporting your ideas of quality of life.
I am very excited to be joining the PROP team as the newest Respiratory Therapist. I’ve been working as an RT for a few short years but have gained a lot of experience working in different aspects of healthcare. I first worked in the crazy hustle and bustle of the hospital where I solidified my skills in all things respiratory. I then worked in the community where I learned how great it is to work one-on-one with the public as well as use all of my new found knowledge.
Noticing gaps in health care has been the most challenging aspect of my career thus far and I look forward to learning how I can further bridge those gaps. I have a passion for finding ways where quality of care and quality of life can intersect which makes PROP such a great fit for me.
Quality of life for me includes being outside enjoying nature with my 8 pound Maltese Yorkie, Nola. She loves to ride in her doggy backpack while I bike or rollerblade the seawall. I also enjoy listening to a good podcast and spending time with friends and family.
I am looking forward to meeting you all and learning how TFL is supporting your ideas of quality of life.
I joined Technology for Living in 2013. I have gained enjoyment and knowledge while working with members all over B.C. I have a Bachelor’s of Science from Simon Fraser University and I did research in cancer drugs and medical devices prior to becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist. My clinical training included Surrey Memorial Hospital, Vancouver General Hospital, and I also worked at the Royal Columbian Hospital before coming aboard.
I joined Technology for Living in 2013. I have gained enjoyment and knowledge while working with members all over B.C. I have a Bachelor’s of Science from Simon Fraser University and I did research in cancer drugs and medical devices prior to becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist. My clinical training included Surrey Memorial Hospital, Vancouver General Hospital, and I also worked at the Royal Columbian Hospital before coming aboard.
Richard has extensive experience working in for non-profit organizations in various support and administrative roles. Education includes a BA in Honours English from York University a Business Administration Diploma, completion of the Office Admin & Technology program at BCIT. He moved to BC in 1992 because of the magnificent beauty of the province and his inexplicable obsession with the Vancouver Canucks. His interests include writing, kayaking and spending time with his partner and dog. “I believe this organization is doing important work. I am very excited to be part of the Technology for Living team.”
Richard has extensive experience working in for non-profit organizations in various support and administrative roles. Education includes a BA in Honours English from York University a Business Administration Diploma, completion of the Office Admin & Technology program at BCIT. He moved to BC in 1992 because of the magnificent beauty of the province and his inexplicable obsession with the Vancouver Canucks. His interests include writing, kayaking and spending time with his partner and dog. “I believe this organization is doing important work. I am very excited to be part of the Technology for Living team.”