We are pleased to announce that Natalie Aitken will be joining our team in the role of Regional Stroke Rehabilitation Coordinator, Stroke Network of Southeastern Ontario. Natalie will begin in the role on July 22, 2024 where she can be reached at Natalie.Aitken@kingstonhsc.ca; and phone 613-583-5968.
Natalie Aitken, earned a BA in Criminal Justice and Public policy at the University of Guelph in 2007, followed by a BSW at the University of Waterloo in 2008 and MSW at Memorial University in 2013. Natalie has extensive professional and volunteer experience working with individuals and their families including various roles in Family Services and Social Work prior to joining Brockville General Hospital as a Social Worker in 2015. Since 2015, she has been a core stroke team member providing social work support to stroke patients across acute and rehabilitation settings. She led the Integrated Stroke Unit (ISU) Steering Committee as the organization took on building a brand-new ISU as part of a hospital expansion project. Her passion for patient centred care is evident in her approach, activities, and leadership. She played a critical role ensuring the patient voice was a clear focus in the ISU project.
Natalie is a known leader actively working with team members, physicians, volunteers to support stroke patients and families across the continuum. She has worked with colleagues to identify service gaps and then work collaboratively with internal and external partners to improve the delivery of care. She is a proud lifelong learner continually building her knowledge and skills. Natalie will be known to many in the region as she has been an active participant in stroke network activities for several years. She shares her passion for stroke best practice with community support/education groups, stroke network meetings, and regional education events. Natalie’s clinical skills and passion for patient centred stroke care will be an excellent addition to the Regional Stroke Network Team. Natalie will work with Shelley Huffman over the coming weeks to transition into the role as Shelley transitions from the Rehabilitation Coordinator role to the Regional Director role as previously announced.
Please join us in welcoming Natalie!