News

September 24 2026

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is Pleased to Announce the Launch of Emergency Department Wait Time Clock available on CKHA’s website

CHATHAM-KENT: September 24, 2026– Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to announce the launch of the online Emergency Department Wait Time Clock available on CKHA’s website. The wait time clock is designed to provide estimated Emergency Department wait times for patients seeking care at both the Chatham and Wallaceburg sites.

The initiative aims to give patients and families a clear expectation of current wait conditions before and during their visit. With this launch, CKHA joins several other Ontario hospitals in adopting digital wait time reporting to enhance the patient experience.

“Empowering our community with clear, accessible information is key to building trust,” said Natalie Clark, Chief Nursing Executive, CKHA. “Launching this tool reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency and helping patients and families feel better informed when seeking emergency care. We also want to remind our community that patients are triaged based on the need to see the sickest patients first, so in an emergency, you should always ensure that you call 9-1-1 or proceed to the nearest Emergency Department right away, regardless of overall estimated wait times.”

The wait time system operates by pulling real-time data from the hospital’s internal system into a dynamic digital display. The numbers reflect a calculated estimate based on the current volume and acuity of patients in the department. To ensure accuracy while protecting system performance, the report updates every thirty to sixty minutes, offering a regular snapshot of activity at each site.

Because the system displays a snapshot that refreshes periodically, community members may notice variances between the numbers listed online or on screen and the physical headcount in the waiting room. The community is reminded that the displays serve as a general guide rather than an exact, guaranteed measurement.

In addition, both Emergency Departments prioritize patients using standardized triage protocols. Individuals arriving with life-threatening or high-severity conditions will always be seen immediately, regardless of the overall estimated wait time displayed on the clocks. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should always call 9-1-1 or proceed to the nearest Emergency Department right away.

The wait time clock is now visible on the CKHA website for remote access and can be viewed here: https://www.ckha.on.ca/ed-wait-times/

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About CKHA

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is a 210-bed community hospital serving the residents of Chatham and rural Kent. Located on the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy, CKHA provides care to Caldwell First Nation, Bkejwanong (Walpole Island First Nation), and Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit (Delaware Nation).

CKHA delivers equitable, high-quality, and safe care at its two sites in Chatham and Wallaceburg. CKHA collaborates with diverse health and community partners to meet the unique needs of the population it serves. The organization’s dedicated team includes approximately 1,500 staff, 200 physicians, and 300 volunteers.

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

CKHA is proud to be recognized as an inclusive workplace of choice, earning a spot on Forbes’ 2026 list of Canada’s Best Employers. The organization provides a comprehensive range of Programs and services—from internal medicine and surgery to women & children’s health and critical care. CKHA cares for tens of thousands of inpatients, outpatients, and emergency patients each year and is a Schedule 1 facility under Ontario’s Mental Health Act. With state-of-the-art diagnostics and technology, CKHA is equipped to support the diverse and evolving needs of its community.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Fannie Vavoulis, Director, Communications & Patient Experience
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance
fvavoulis@ckha.on.ca
519.352.6400 x 6143

September 18 2026

Get to Know: Kylie, HELP Volunteer at CKHA

MalloryNews

Whether it is sharing a conversation, playing a game, or offering a comforting presence during mealtime, our volunteers play an invaluable role in the healing journey of our patients. This summer, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Kylie Dow, a dedicated Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) volunteer whose passion for patient-centered care is making a bright impact at our hospital.

From Campus to Care

A fourth-year Biological Science student at the University of Guelph, Kylie is preparing to take the next big step in her academic journey by applying to Occupational Therapy programs this fall. Throughout university, she has actively sought out diverse healthcare settings, discovering a deep passion for supporting others through challenging times.

When looking for a meaningful way to spend the summer, Kylie turned to Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA). “I decided to volunteer with CKHA this summer because I was looking for an opportunity to gain experience in a hospital setting while working with older adults,” Kylie shares. “The HELP program really stood out to me because of its focus on supporting patients through meaningful interactions. I loved the idea that something as simple as having a conversation, keeping someone company, or playing a game could make someone’s day a little brighter.”

Making a Difference Through the HELP Program

As a HELP volunteer, Kylie supports the well-being and cognitive engagement of older adult patients. A hospital stay can sometimes feel unfamiliar and lonely. Therefore, these intentional interactions are vital in helping reduce the risk of delirium and keeping patients socially stimulated.

For Kylie, the highlight of every shift is the human connection. “Every patient interaction is different, which brings something new to each shift,” she explains. “What I enjoy most is getting to know the patients. I love hearing about their lives and all of the experiences they’ve had over the years. Every conversation is different, and I’ve learned so much just by taking the time to listen.”

Growing Personally and Professionally

Looking back on the past few months, Kylie notes that the experience has been profoundly transformative. Beyond strengthening vital communication skills and deepening an appreciation for patient-centered care, the role has allowed her to bridge classroom theory with real-world healthcare settings, especially regarding healthy aging and delirium prevention.

Most importantly, the experience has solidified her future aspirations. “This has confirmed that working in healthcare is something I truly enjoy, and it’s made me even more excited to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy,” said Kylie.

When asked what she would say to anyone considering joining the team at CKHA, Kylie‘s advice is simple. “Definitely go for it,” she says. “It’s an amazing opportunity to learn, meet wonderful people, and make a positive difference during what can be a challenging time in someone’s life. I’ve gained so much from volunteering with HELP, and I would recommend the program to anyone who is thinking about getting involved.”

Thank you, Kylie, for your dedication, compassion, and the bright energy you bring to our patients every single day!

September 17 2026

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Welcomes New Psychiatrist

bethNews

CHATHAM-KENT: September 17, 2026 – Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to announce the arrival of Dr. Syed Awn Raza, Psychiatrist, to the hospital’s Mental Health and Addictions program (MHAP).

Dr. Awn Raza earned his medical degree in Pakistan in 2011, where he spent several years practicing medicine as a Medical Officer following graduation. In 2018, he relocated to Ireland, where he spent the next eight years practicing medicine as a Registrar in Psychiatry. Throughout his career, Dr. Awn Raza has gained extensive training and clinical experience in treating a wide range of general adult psychiatric disorders.

“I chose to join CKHA because of its strong commitment to patient-centred care and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the Chatham-Kent community,” said Dr. Awn Raza. “I look forward to bringing my experience in psychiatry to the team and supporting patients and their families with compassionate, patient-centred care.”

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Awn Raza to our medical staff,” said Dr. Zeke Milkovic, CKHA Chief of Staff. “His background in general adult psychiatry, coupled with his dedication to compassionate clinical service, will be a tremendous asset to our hospital and the community. His arrival helps us continue to strengthen and expand access to essential mental health care services across Chatham-Kent.”

As September marks Suicide Awareness Month, CKHA reminds the community that help is always available. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support.

Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8

CMHA First Response Team: 1-866-299-7447

Kid’s Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

In an emergency, always dial 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency department.

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Phonetic Pronunciation:
Dr. Syed Awn Raza [Si-edd Aw-n Raz-ah]

About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Brian Vandooren, Director, Medical Affairs & Medical Recruitment

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance

bvandooren@ckha.on.ca

519.352.6400 x 6053

September 14 2026

CKHA Unveils “Healing Hands” Sculpture at Wallaceburg Site

MalloryNews

CHATHAM-KENT: September 14, 2026– Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to unveil a new public art installation at its Wallaceburg Site, marking the final addition to the organization’s community-focused art initiative launched in 2024.

The sculpture, titled Healing Hands, was created by local artist Tyson Carr and is now on display at the Wallaceburg site. The piece depicts a human hand, gracefully reaching upward with a butterfly carefully balanced on the index finger.

“There’s been a major theme of rebirth and renewal at CKHA’s Wallaceburg Site, and I wanted to translate that into a work of art,” said Carr. “For me, the butterfly symbolizes that transformation. It’s in its cocoon, and then it finally emerges showing its beauty. And I find that inspiring, and I hope the community can see that too.”

Carr, a multidisciplinary artist from Chatham-Kent, is known for both his sculptural work and his abstract paintings. Inspired by nature, physics, and the unseen elements of the world around us, Carr’s creative philosophy is rooted in curiosity, growth, and community. His work often invites the viewer to explore deeper meaning, not only in the art itself but through their personal interpretation.

“I am extremely honoured to have my art displayed in Wallaceburg. Being from Chatham-Kent, it means a great deal to have this work connected to the place where I grew up,” he said.

The installation of Healing Hands is part of CKHA’s broader efforts to create calming, reflective spaces throughout its hospital sites that support healing and well-being not just through care, but through beauty, nature, and creativity.

“Healing Hands is a beautiful and peaceful addition to the Wallaceburg Site,” said Adam Topp, President and CEO, CKHA. “It’s a wonderful example of how public art can enhance healthcare settings and celebrate the incredible creative talent we have in our own community.”

In 2025, CKHA unveiled another sculpture, Mamma Bear and Cub by artist Frank Ripley at its Chatham Site. Ripley’s art piece, made from recycled metals and wire, now overlooks the riverscape beside the Emergency Department. Click here to learn more: https://www.ckha.on.ca/chatham-kent-health-alliance-unveils-new-public-art-installation-at-chatham-site/

This initiative was made possible in part through funding support from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. CKHA extends its sincere gratitude to the Municipality, and to Tyson Carr for sharing his creativity, vision, and passion with the community.

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About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca.

Media Contact:

Fannie Vavoulis
Director, Communications & Patient Experience |
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance
fvavoulis@ckha.on.ca

September 10 2026

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance welcomes the Newborn Cuddle Program

bethNews

CHATHAM-KENT: September 10, 2026 – Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to announce the Newborn Cuddle Program within the Women & Children’s Program, bringing trained volunteers to provide comfort, nurturing touch and companionship to newborns during their hospital stay.

Gini Martin, CKHA Volunteer, on a shift with the Cuddle Program

The Newborn Cuddle Program was established to support newborns who may spend extended periods in the hospital and whose parents or families are not always able to be at their bedside. Through comforting human touch and interaction, volunteer cuddlers provide an additional source of emotional support while complementing the care provided by parents, families and the health care team.

“Bringing the Newborn Cuddle Program to CKHA is a wonderful opportunity to provide our youngest patients with an additional source of comfort and connection during their hospital stay,” said Jessica Johnston, Clinical Manager, Women & Children’s Program, CKHA. “We know how important nurturing touch and human connection can be for newborns, and our volunteers will play a meaningful role in helping babies feel safe, supported and comforted when their families are unable to be at the bedside. We’re so excited to welcome our Cuddle Program volunteers and offer this additional support to our babies, families and care team.”

Left to right: Jessica Johnston, Clinical Manager, Women & Children’s Program CKHA; Gini Martin, CKHA Volunteer; and Kathryn Kielstra, Volunteer Resources Specialist, CKHA

Research has shown that positive, nurturing touch can support infant development and well-being, including helping babies regulate stress, sleep and physiological responses. For newborns in hospital, these comforting interactions can provide an important sense of security and connection.

“Volunteering as a Newborn Cuddle Program volunteer is a way to make a difference in the life of a newborn and their family,” said Kathryn Kielstra, Volunteer Resources Specialist, CKHA. “Our volunteers have the opportunity to provide comfort and connection during a time when families may be facing uncertainty or spending time away from the hospital. We are excited to welcome volunteers into this special role and see the positive impact they can have on our youngest patients.”

The Newborn Cuddle Program volunteers are specially screened and trained before participating. The process includes volunteer screening and orientation, as well as training related to infant safety, infection prevention and confidentiality. Volunteers work under the direction of the health care team and provide cuddling and comforting interaction when appropriate.

The health care team identifies newborns who may benefit from additional comforting interaction, and participation is coordinated with the baby’s care team. Parents or guardians are informed about the program and provide consent before their child participates.

For volunteers, the program offers an opportunity to contribute to the health and well-being of newborns in the community while gaining experience in a health care environment and developing skills in communication, teamwork and patient-centred care.

CKHA is grateful to the volunteers who have chosen to dedicate their time to the Newborn Cuddle Program and looks forward to the positive impact they will have on newborns and families receiving care through the Women & Children’s Program.

For more information about the Women and Children’s Program at CKHA, please visit https://www.ckha.on.ca/hospital-services/women-children/

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About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Fannie Vavoulis, Director, Communications & Patient Experience
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance
fvavoulis@ckha.on.ca
519.352.6400 x 6143

September 4 2026

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Welcomes New Pediatrician

bethNews

CHATHAM-KENT: September 4, 2026 – Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to announce the arrival of Dr. Jashan Uppal, Pediatrician, to the hospital’s Women & Children’s department.

Completing her high school and undergraduate studies in Toronto, Dr. Uppal then relocated to India to earn her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from Kasturba Medical College in 2021. She then completed her Pediatrics Residency (2023–2026) at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. Returning to Canada has always been a primary goal for Dr. Uppal, and Chatham-Kent provides the ideal environment for her focus on community pediatric medicine.

“I’m incredibly excited to join CKHA because it gives me the opportunity to return to Canada and serve the Chatham-Kent community while practicing the kind of pediatrics I value most—compassionate, family-centred care,” said Dr. Uppal. “My training at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan has given me broad experience caring for children with a wide range of medical needs, from common childhood concerns to more complex conditions, and I look forward to bringing that experience to my practice at CKHA. What I value most about pediatrics is the opportunity to build meaningful, long-term relationships with children and their families, and I hope to provide evidence-based care while supporting my patients through every stage of their growth and development.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Uppal to our team,” said Dr. Zeke Milkovic, CKHA Chief of Staff. “Her expertise, dedication to patient-centered care, and commitment to clinical excellence will be a tremendous asset to our hospital and the Chatham-Kent community. We look forward to the contributions she will make as we continue to strengthen the care we provide for our patients.”

With the addition of Dr. Uppal, Chatham-Kent’s pediatric team is now fully staffed with six experienced specialists. Beyond general pediatric care, the team offers specialized outpatient services, including minor procedures such as newborn circumcisions and frenectomies.

Health care providers can send patient referrals to the pediatric team via fax at 519-358-1586.

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Phonetic Pronunciation:
Dr. Jashan Uppal [Jash-an Up-all]

About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Brian Vandooren, Director, Medical Affairs & Medical Recruitment

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance

bvandooren@ckha.on.ca

519.352.6400 x 6053

September 1 2026

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and Thamesview Family Health Team Welcome New Physician

bethNews

CHATHAM-KENT:September 1, 2026 – Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) and Thamesview Family Health Team are pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Alexandra Ferrara to the CKHA Emergency Department team and the Thamesview Family Health Team Family Physician team. Dr. Ferrara begins work this September and has supported patient care within the Hospitalist program at CKHA since August.

Born and raised in Chatham, Dr. Ferrara has a robust academic background and a deep passion for serving her community. Earning her Bachelor of Science degree from Western University, she went on to complete her Master of Public Health at Brock University and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Limerick in Ireland.

Returning to Chatham-Kent to complete her Family Medicine Residency, Dr. Ferrara has received the prestigious Leonora Sheppard Award in Family Medicine from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University, as well as the Thamesview Family Health Team’s Barb Lather Education Bursary.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Alexandra Ferrara to Thamesview Family Health Team. Her addition will strengthen our team and help us continue providing high-quality, patient-centred care to our community,” said Denise Waddick, Executive Director, Thamesview Family Health Team.

“I look forward to practicing medicine full-time,” said Dr. Ferrara. “I am very honoured to be able to serve the community I grew up in.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ferrara back to her home community as a member of our team,” said Dr. Zeke Milkovic, CKHA Chief of Staff. “Her strong background in public health, dedication to patient-centered care, and commitment to clinical excellence will be a tremendous asset to our Emergency program. We look forward to the lasting impact she will make as we continue to strengthen the care we provide for the residents of Chatham-Kent.”

For information about where to find a family doctor, visit Health Care Connect at https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-family-doctor-or-nurse-practitioner or call 8-1-1.

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Phonetic Pronunciation:
Dr. Alexandra Ferrara [Alex-and-rah Fer-rar-rah]

About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Brian Vandooren, Director, Medical Affairs & Medical Recruitment

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance

bvandooren@ckha.on.ca

519.352.6400 x 6053

Denise Waddick, Executive Director

Thamesview Family Health Team

denise.waddick@thamesviewfht.ca

July 14 2026

Patient and Family Advisory Council Co-Chair Announcement

bethNews

CHATHAM-KENT: July 14, 2026 – On behalf of the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC), Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to announce that volunteer Patient Experience Advisor, Crystal Doherty, has accepted the position of the PFAC Co-Chair. Effective September 1, 2026, Crystal will work closely with the Patient Relations Specialist and the Director of Patient Experience and Communications to lead Patient and Family Centred Care (PFCC) at CKHA.

Crystal brings a strong commitment to PFCC, grounded in both her personal experiences and professional development. She is a mother of two and a university student pursuing a degree in Indigenous social work. Outside of her studies, Crystal enjoys cooking, baking, and creating art with her children.

Motivated by her own journey with autoimmune and chronic health conditions, Crystal joined CKHA’s PFAC in September 2024 to help ensure that patient and family needs remain a central focus in care delivery. She values clear communication, personalized care, and supporting individuals throughout their wellness journeys.

Crystal brings extensive leadership experience from business ownership and over 20 years in management and supervisory roles. Her background includes recruitment, mentorship, staff training, and fostering inclusive, respectful environments where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued. As an Indigenous social work student, she is guided by principles of advocacy, cultural humility, and relational practice, which are values that closely align with CKHA’s values statement.

She has also demonstrated strong community engagement through her academic work, including successfully securing funding and partnerships to establish a youth drop-in program in Ridgetown.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Crystal Doherty as our new Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) Co-Chair,” said Fannie Vavoulis, Director of Patient Experience and Communications. “Crystal brings a fresh perspective to the role, backed by an impressive combination of leadership excellence, personal experience, and a strong educational background. I am excited to work alongside her as we continue to listen to our community and pursue the best patient experience possible.”

Crystal’s collaborative leadership style, passion for advocacy, and dedication to amplifying patient and family voices make her an excellent fit for this role. As the new Co-Chair, she is committed to supporting engagement and ensuring that patient and family perspectives continue to inform health care planning and decision-making.

Please join the organization in welcoming Crystal to her new role.

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About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Fannie Vavoulis, Director, Communications & Patient Experience
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance
fvavoulis@ckha.on.ca
519.352.6400 x 6143

July 8 2026

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Welcomes Four New Family Medicine Residents

bethNews

CHATHAM-KENT: July 8, 2026 – Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased to welcome four new Family Medicine Residents. Dr. Sanya Sharar, Dr. Neelesh Taticherala, Dr. Amanjot Kaur, and Dr. Murad Mun began their post-graduate training at CKHA this month. The physicians will gain valuable experience by working with local physicians and CKHA’s health care team to provide support and direction as they complete the clinical portion of their medical training.

“Chatham-Kent offers an exceptional learning environment where residents can build confidence, expand their clinical skills, and become part of a collaborative health care team,” says Dr. Zeke Milkovic, Chief of Staff at CKHA. “Throughout their residency, they will gain valuable hands-on experience across the full scope of Family Medicine while providing care to our community. We are proud to support the next generation of physicians and look forward to the contributions they will make during their time at CKHA.”

Left to Right: Dr. Murad Mun, Dr. Neelesh Taticherala, Dr. Amanjot Kaur, Dr. Sanya Sharar

Dr. Neelesh Taticherala completed his medical school in China, working in rural India as a general practitioner before continuing his training in Internal Medicine in Germany.

He is passionate about practicing family medicine. “Combining that with palliative care and emergency medicine lets me provide comprehensive, compassionate care whenever and wherever it’s needed most,” said Dr. Taticherala.

He is looking forward to gaining experience in a variety of disciplines during his rotations at CKHA, and to refining his skills to become a more highly skilled family doctor.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family at the beach, fishing, or playing ball with his son.

Dr. Sanya Sharar completed her medical degree in Bangladesh before moving to Canada. She is excited to continue her medical learning in Chatham-Kent, looking forward to experiencing broad clinical exposure and developing a well-rounded skill set across both community and hospital settings.

“I am interested in family medicine with an additional interest in maintaining some hospital-based work,” said Dr. Sharar. “I really value continuity and comprehensive care, and I enjoy building lasting doctor-patient relationships over time.”

Dr. Sharar is interested in working in a family medicine practice after her residency, while continuing to maintain some hospital work as she enjoys combining the continuity of outpatient care with the dynamic nature of inpatient medicine.

In her spare time, Dr. Sharar enjoys cooking, gardening, and fishing.

Dr. Amanjot Kaur completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in India, followed by postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is interested in practicing family medicine with a focus on women’s health, emergency medicine, and mental health.

Dr. Kaur is excited to begin work in Chatham-Kent. “I am very excited to begin my Family Medicine residency in Chatham-Kent,” she said. “Growing up in a farming household in Punjab, India, I feel a personal connection to Chatham-Kent and its strong agricultural roots. I am particularly passionate about preventive care because I believe that empowering people to make healthy, informed choices can have a significant impact on their lives, families, and communities.”

After her residency, Dr. Kaur hopes to continue to work in the community of Chatham-Kent.

Outside of her studies, she enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and dancing to Punjabi folk music.

Dr. Murad Mun went to medical school in Bangladesh, where he then served as a Resident Medical Officer at a tertiary care hospital. He is interested in practicing Family Medicine, as he is passionate about advocating for the patients in his community.

“What I really like about doing residency here are the knowledgeable educators, plenty of resources for learning, and supportive environment for my personal well-being,” said Dr. Mun.

After his residency, he plans to join a team of other physicians and allied health professionals to continue to provide comprehensive health care to a community.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, playing sports like soccer or hiking and fishing.

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Phonetic Pronunciation:

Dr. Sanya Sharar [SAN-yuh Shah-RAR]

Dr. Neelesh Taticherala [NEE-lish TAH-tich-er-alah]

Dr. Amanjot Kaur [AH-man-jot Kor]

Dr. Murad Mun [Mer-add Mun]

About CKHA

Our Focus is You. As your community hospital, we value easy-to-access health care rooted in equity and kindness.

For more information, visit www.ckha.on.ca

For more information, please contact:

Fannie Vavoulis, Director, Communications & Patient Experience
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance
fvavoulis@ckha.on.ca
519.352.6400 x 6143

June 30 2026

Get to Know | Jordan: From Volunteer to OT Professional

MalloryNews, Blog

For many, the path to a career in healthcare starts with a single spark of interest. For Jordan, that spark was ignited in high school. “I knew I wanted to work with people,” Jordan shares. “I knew that the work you do as a healthcare professional has the potential to significantly improve the lives of patients, families and communities.”

That ambition led Jordan to the University of Windsor, where she completed an undergraduate degree in Human Kinetics. With sights set on a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, Jordan knew she needed more than just classroom theory, she needed hands-on experience.

“I reached out to the Manager of the Rehab Unit here at CKHA to ask about volunteering,” Jordan says. “To my luck, they created a role specifically for me.”

For several months, Jordan was a fixture on the Inpatient Rehabilitation unit, shadowing OTs, PTs, and therapy assistants twice a week. It was here that Jordan cultivated the skills that define a great practitioner – active listening, patient empathy, and creative problem-solving.

“That experience was the bridge that helped me get into grad school and reach where I am today,” Jordan notes. “I couldn’t recommend volunteering here enough.”

More Than Just Rehab

“I have been at CKHA for three and a half years now,” said Jordan. “My current role at CKHA is Occupational Therapist on Inpatient Psychiatry.” When asked what the most common misconception about Occupational Therapy is, Jordan explains, “people think it’s just physical rehabilitation. In reality, it’s a holistic profession that tackles mental health, cognitive function, and environmental factors.”

In her day-to-day work on the Inpatient Psychiatry unit, Jordan focuses deeply on restoring functional independence. This involves assisting patients with rebuilding crucial life skills, restoring social skills, and managing their symptoms so they can engage in meaningful daily occupations. A major part of her role includes helping patients develop and enhance coping strategies, as well as structuring daily routines to ensure a successful and safe transition home from the hospital back into the community for ongoing treatment and support.

For Jordan, the impact of this work is deeply fulfilling. “Having the opportunity to help others learn and acquire new skills and participate more fully in the activities that give their lives stability, purpose, and joy is very rewarding,” said Jordan.

Because the field is so vast spanning hospitals, schools, family health teams, and community centres, Jordan offers one piece of advice to those looking to pursue a career in healthcare. “Shadow everywhere” Jordan suggests. “Spend time in various settings like rehab, pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, or even home care. It’s the best way to understand the true scope of the profession and find exactly where your passion lies.”

Life Outside the Hospital

When the scrubs come off, you won’t find Jordan sitting still. Whether it’s spending quality time with friends and family, outdoors playing baseball, or going for a run, Jordan stays active. You’re also likely to find her out on the golf course, currently working hard to perfect her short game.