When Healing Becomes a Calling: Bianca’s Story
Bianca knows the pediatric hospital world from two very different perspectives – as a former patient and now as a healthcare professional.
Today, at 34, she works with children going through situations she once experienced herself. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, is a powerful source of inspiration.
A Story of Hope and Care from the Very Beginning
Bianca was just 10 days old when she first met François Fassier, M.D. The diagnosis: congenital dysplasia of both hips. When she was only 2 months old, she underwent her first surgery. By the time she turned 2, she had already had five operations.
Despite these challenging beginnings, Bianca enjoyed a relatively normal childhood until adolescence. At age 15, her right hip dislocated completely, leading her to Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada, where she underwent two additional surgeries.
“It didn’t feel like a hospital. There were the Shriners, the clowns, the nurses and all the support staff who were always there to talk and reassure us. It felt like a family!” she said.
It didn’t feel like a hospital, it felt like a family.
When Care Becomes a Vocation
Always encouraged by Dr. Fassier, who believed in her potential, Bianca began studying respiratory therapy. Although the program normally takes three years, it took her eight – interrupted by two major surgeries, two hip replacements and persistent chronic pain.
“People told me I wouldn’t make it, that I wouldn’t be able to run to respond to emergency codes ... but I kept going,” said Bianca.
Her battle was made even more difficult because her condition was invisible. She faced bullying and, at times, a lack of understanding from those who couldn’t see her pain. Still, she never gave up.
Bianca wears her hip casts as a baby.
Coming Full Circle: From Patient to Colleague
After earning her degree, Bianca worked at the Montreal Children’s Hospital. But ongoing pain forced her to take a break, though she deeply missed working in pediatrics.
Encouraged by Thomas Engelhardt, M.D., Ph.D., pediatric anesthesiologist, Chief of Staff Thierry E. Benaroch, M.D., FRCS(C), and Caroline Shaw, MPA, BScN, RN, CPN, operating room head nurse, she officially joined the team at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada in early 2025.
“It’s been almost six months now, and I love it,” she said.
A Heartfelt Mission, Day After Day
Today, Bianca supports young patients going through the very challenges she once faced. She understands their fear, their pain and their anxiety, and offers more than just medical care: She brings a listening ear and living proof that there’s hope.
She now has regular annual follow-ups and is doing well. She’s found a balance between caring for her own health and following her passion for helping others.
When asked what message she would share with young patients, her words are clear and powerful: “Do what you want to do. No one else should decide for you. If you know you're capable, go for it. Don’t let yourself be discouraged. Use the resources available to you, involve your family, and above all, don’t lose hope.”
Today, Bianca embodies hope and resilience at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada, the very place that helped change her life. By caring for others, she carries on the hospital’s mission: to provide compassionate, high-quality care so that every child has the chance to look forward to a brighter future.
Bianca and Dr. Benaroch make a heart shape with their hands.
