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.
