Submitted by Physiotherapy Professional Practice, SJCG
It is with both gratitude and admiration that we announce the recent retirements of three incredible physiotherapists: Maureen Dillon, Fiona MacLean, and Kelly Bergagnini. Together, they have devoted an astonishing 102 years to the Physiotherapy profession, and now as they lay down their goniometers and reflex hammers we want to wish them well in this next chapter of life. Their contributions to TBRHSC and the physiotherapy community have been immeasurable, and we want to take this opportunity to celebrate their careers and reflect on the profound impact they’ve made.
Kelly Bergagnini: A Role Model in Joint Replacement Care
Kelly began her career with St. Joseph’s Care Group in July of 1992 on the 3N Neurology unit before moving to the Rheumatic Diseases Program (RDU) on the 4th floor. From there, Kelly’s journey took her to the 3rd floor, where she specialized in working with joint replacement patients. She rounded out her career by working 12 years at TBRHSC, where she worked in 3A Surgical Daycare primarily caring for post-operative joint replacement clients.
One of Kelly’s most notable reflections on her career was, “When I started working with joint replacements at SJH many years ago, the pathway length of stay was 8 days. By the end of my career, we were sending joint replacement patients home the same day!”
Her dedication to the evolving needs of her patients and her ability to adapt to new approaches in healthcare make her an outstanding example of growth and innovation in the field.
Maureen Dillon: A Career Focused on Orthopedics and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Maureen started her physiotherapy career at Port Arthur General Hospital in 1990, before joining St. Joseph’s Hospital in 1997. Throughout her career, Maureen specialized in orthopedics and pulmonary rehabilitation, and she eventually became an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist at the Rapid Access Centre at TBRHSC where she finished her career.
Maureen fondly recalls one of her favorite workplace traditions: “One of my fondest memories was ‘month-end coffee,’ where rotating groups of rehab staff would provide special treats. It was a wonderful opportunity to socialize and promote camaraderie and friendship among colleagues.”
Her contributions to both patient care and team dynamics have left a lasting impact, and we thank her for her years of commitment to the profession, St. Joseph’s Care Group and TBRHSC.
Fiona MacLean: From Scotland to Thunder Bay, a Career Dedicated to Stroke Rehabilitation
Fiona began her career in physiotherapy in Inverness, Scotland, before moving to Thunder Bay in 1991 to work at McKellar Hospital. After McKellar closed, Fiona transitioned to TBRHSC, where she made significant contributions to the Acute Stroke Program.
Fiona reflected on the importance of professional connections and continuing education, saying, “I find the QPC retreats and courses that I have attended are really important events to connect with physios across the continuum and appreciate how dedicated they all are in providing the best care for our patients . These personal interactions and communications in person are so important in these times of emailing and WebEx meetings where the personal connections are not there.”
Fiona’s commitment to her patients and to strengthening professional ties within the physiotherapy community has made her an invaluable member of the team.
A Well-Deserved Farewell
As Maureen, Fiona, and Kelly step into retirement, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for their incredible contributions to both TBRHSC and St. Joseph’s Care Group. Together, they have improved the lives of countless patients over the years. While their presence will be greatly missed, we wish them all the best in their retirement and hope they enjoy this new chapter to the fullest.
Thank you, Maureen, Fiona, and Kelly, for your passion, dedication, and years of service. Enjoy your retirement—you’ve truly earned it!
Please join us in celebrating these three remarkable professionals and the lasting legacy they leave behind!