Champion for Change 2023 Awardee: Colleen O’Connell

Not specified, Not specified · DOI: · Published: April 7, 2025

Spinal Cord Injury Trauma Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Dr. O’Connell is recognized internationally for her advocacy for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI) in the community or disaster settings and has served on many global committees in the area of SCI. Dr. O’Connell founded Team Canada Healing Hands, which organizes and conducts international outreach projects with a focus on training in areas with identified needs for adults and children with disability providing education and rehabilitative care. Dr. O’Connell’s unique superpower is her ability to promote change through networking as she routinely advocates for a future where individuals of all ages and abilities, in all settings, feel empowered to participate in rehabilitation and pursue their passion!

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Dr. O’Connell has been instrumental in including rehabilitation services in post-disaster care teams globally.
2
She has represented Canadians at a number of international tables and brokered collaborations on behalf of other Canadians for over two decades.
3
Dr. O’Connell is the founder and lead of the Spinal Cord Injury Network of the Atlantic Provinces (SCINAPS), which was formed in 2018 to improve research and care.

Research Summary

Dr. O’Connell has demonstrated unwavering commitment in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation and is an inspiring leader who has been a global catalyst for change! Dr. O’Connell founded a nongovernmental organization—Team Canada Healing Hands—which organizes and conducts international outreach projects with a focus on training in areas with identified needs for adults and children with disability providing education and rehabilitative care. Dr. O’Connell’s unique superpower is her ability to promote change through networking as she routinely advocates for a future where individuals of all ages and abilities, in all settings, feel empowered to participate in rehabilitation and pursue their passion!

Practical Implications

Global Rehabilitation Impact

Dr. O'Connell's work significantly impacts global rehabilitation efforts, especially in disaster-stricken areas, by providing expertise and support for SCI management.

National Leadership in SCI Care

Her leadership in organizations like SCINAPS and her involvement in national consortiums contribute to improved SCI care and research across Canada.

Empowering Individuals through Rehabilitation

Dr. O'Connell's advocacy and networking skills promote a future where individuals of all abilities are empowered to participate in rehabilitation and pursue their passions.

Study Limitations

1
The text focuses on Dr. O'Connell's achievements and does not discuss limitations of her work.
2
The scope of the impact of SCINAPS is not quantified.
3
Specific details on the collaborative projects led by Dr. O'Connell are not provided.

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