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Desmond Fung
Desmond Fung
Senior Staff Physiotherapist
M.Sc.PT, H.BSc, CCAMA, RPT
Desmond holds a Masters of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto, which he earned following his Bachelor of Science with Honors from McMaster University. At the University of Toronto, he was awarded with the Physiotherapy of Canada Student Research Award for outstanding research in the field of physical therapy. His research was presented at the Ontario Physiotherapy Association Conference (2009) and at the Canadian Physiotherapy Association Congress (2009). Desmond has also been certified in medical acupuncture from McMaster University. He has taken numerous continuing education courses expanding his evidence-based techniques to efficiently treat his clients, helping them regain optimal health.
Long a sport and fitness enthusiast, Desmond’s passion has influenced his education and professional careers. His athletic background consists of a myriad of sports, ranging from softball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee and weight training. Furthermore, he has been the head coach of many community softball teams and was part of the medical staff for an elite level volleyball camp. He has also worked with national and provincial level athletes in various sports. His participation in sports allows him to understand the physical and mental relationship that is required by athletes to achieve their optimal performance and thrive.- Titles
- • Masters of Science in Physical Therapy (M.Sc.PT) from the University of Toronto (2008)
- • Honours Bachelor of Science (B.Sc)from McMaster University (2006)
- • Member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (2009-Present)
- • Member of the Orthopedic Division (2009-Present)
- • Member of Canadian Academy of Medical Acupuncture (2010-Present)
- • Registered with the College of Physiotherapy Ontario (2009-Present)
- Continuing Education
- • Functional Movement Systems (FMS) (2011)
- • McKenzie A (Lumbar Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy)(2010)
- • McKenzie B (Cervical Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy) (2011)
- • McMaster University Medical Acupuncture Certification (2009)
- • Diploma of Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy: Level 1 (2009)
- • First Responder – Red Cross (2009)
- • Custom Orthotic Therapy & Gait Analysis (2009)
- • Basic Sports Taping (2008)
- Field Work
- •Run for Southlake (2010) – Physiotherapist
- •OFSAA Cross Country (2009) – Physiotherapist and First Responder
- •St. Andrew’s Golf Tournament (2009) – Physiotherapist
- •Hartwell Half Marathon (2008, 2009) – Physiotherapist
- •Madawaska Volleyball Camp (2008) – Physiotherapist
- Awards
- • Physical Therapy Award for Excellence in Student Research
- • McMaster Honour Award
Research
Cornell, S., Fung, D., Geary, J., Parker, S., Watson, H., Devereaux, M., ElMaraghy, A., Salbach, N.M. A Pilot Study to Estimate the Diagnostic Utility of Provocative Tests in Detecting Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis Among Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression (2008).- • Presented at Canadian Physiotherapy Association Congress, Calgary, Alberta, May 28-31, 2009
- • Presented at Ontario Physiotherapy Association Conference, London, Ontario, March 26-28, 2009.
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Kyla Marsden
Kyla Marsden
Registered Physiotherapist
Staff Physiotherapist
M.Sc.PT, B.HSc, RPTKyla attained her Masters of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto, after having completed her Honors Bachelor of Health Sciences degree from the University of Western Ontario. While completing her Masters, Kyla was lead author on a large scale study that focused on the role of physiotherapy fo cardiac surgery patients, Her latest research endeavor resulted in an enhanced physiotherapy program for orthopedic surgery patients at a large teaching hospital in Toronto.
During her undergraduate years, Kyla developed a passion for human anatomy and physiology. These academic pursuits, combined with her love for working with people and her long time interest in health and well-being led her to the profession of physiotherapy. A fitness and nutrition enthusiast, Kyla particularly enjoys group weight-training classes, yoga and spinning. Kyla also has a life long passion for music, having performed both as a singer and pianist. Kyla’s training and academic background, combined with her warm, friendly and caring approach to practice allows her to help clients reach their full potential.
- Titles
- • Masters of Science in Physical Therapy (M.Sc.PT) from the University of Toronto (2009)
- • Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences (B.HSc) from the University of Western Ontario (2007)
- • Member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (2009-Present)
- • Registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario (2009-Present)
- Continuing Education
- • McKenzie A (Lumbar Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy) (2010)
- • Diploma of Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy: Level 1 (2009)
- • Foundations of Anatomical Acupuncture: Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute: Level 1 (2010)
- • First Responder Course – Red Cross (2010)
- Field Work
- • A & B Courier Run for Southlake – Physiotherapist (2011)
- • Run for Southlake – Physiotherapist (2010)
- • Hartwell Half Marathon – Physiotherapist (2009)
Research
Marsden, K., Ge, T., Do, J., Reeves, J., Berg, K., Fox, P., Beavers, L., Parkes, J., Yue, S., Coleman, J. Surgical Day of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft: Its Impact on Frequency of Physiotherapy Intervention and Patient Outcomes. -
Sarah Nestor
Sarah Nestor
Registered Physiotherapist
Staff Physiotherapist
M.Sc.PT, B.PhEd, RPTSarah’s educational background includes a Masters of Science degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelor of Physical Education degree from Brock University. Growing up in Richmond Hill, Sarah was active in a number of sports, both at the school, and competitive level. Sarah competed in gymnastics at the Provincial level for numerous years through Markham Gymnastics Club and Academy of Sport and Fitness, after which she went on to coach both boys and girls gymnastics at Richmond Hill Gymnastics Club.
Sarah also pursued a variety of winter sports, with achievements including participating in various competitions around Southern Ontario, and the Ontario Winter Games as a competitive Freestyle skier. Sarah developed a passion for rugby after playing the sport throughout her high school career, and has recently been providing on-field physiotherapy coverage for the Aurora Barbarians Rugby Club.
Over the past two years Sarah has been on the Executive Board for both the Irish Cultural Society of Toronto, and the Irish Benevolent Society of Toronto where she has had the privilege of working on numerous events throughout the city and in Ireland. Sarah also enjoys spending time at the cottage, fishing, canoeing, and camping. Sarah’s athletic and educational background allow her to understand the demands of high level athletics, and the importance of proper physical rehabilitation and fitness for optimal performance.
- Titles
- • Masters of Science in Physical Therapy (M.Sc.PT) from the University of Toronto (2009)
- • First Class Standing Honours Bachelor of Physical Education (B.PhEd) from Brock University (2007)
- • Member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (2010-Present)
- • Registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario (2010-Present)
- Continuing Education
- • Sports First Responder Course (2011)
- Field Work
- • Aurora Barbarians – Rugby: Men’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd team, Boys U18 team – Physiotherapist (2010)
- Research
- • Argent, S., Ho, K., Switalsky, T., Nestor, S., Nightingale, D., Williams, J., Morris, H., Ganely, C., Wong, N., Verrier, M. Patient Demographics and Processes of Care in a Specialized Outpatient Rehabilitation Program.
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Ron O’Hare
Ron O’Hare
Registered Physiotherapist,
Founder & DirectorBScPT, BPHE, Cert. Sports Physiotherapy
Lifespring’s Founder and Director, Ron O’Hare, has been practicing as a physiotherapist since 1997, after having obtained a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education (BPHE) and a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy (BScPT) from from Queen’s University, Kingston Ontario. Ron continues to work towards achieving the highest post-graduate orthopedic qualifications, as well as his Sports Physiotherapy Diploma.
Ron’s exposure to physiotherapy began as an athlete (a fiercely competitive athlete) at varsity and provincial team levels. Ron represented Ontario in the 1989 Canada games as a member of the bronze medal medal winning volleyball team. Ron’s volleyball career continued for a further five years during which he achieved OUA All-Star status and was named captain of the Queen’s Varsity team. It was at Queen’s where Ron first began to fully understand and value the numerous benefits that physiotherapy offers all athletes – especially those who compete and perform at the highest levels.
Ron drew some of the inspiration for his unique approach to integrated interdisciplinary health care from working at the family physiotherapy clinic (Promotion Physiotherapy …widely considered a benchmark clinic in the GTA) and, later, at the David L. Macintosh Clinic at the University of Toronto. Working with national team athletes and promoting amateur athletics will be a life long pursuit and passion for Ron. Ron dreams of giving back to the athletic community through his practice, fundraising and sponsorship opportunities.
- Titles
- • Bachelor of Science Physical Therapy from Queen’s University (1992)
- • Bachelor of Physical and Health Education from Queen’s University (1997)
- • Member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (1997 – Present)
- • Member of the Orthopedic Division (1997 – Present)
- • Registered with the College of Physiotherapy Ontario (1997 – Present)
- • Member of Sports Physiotherapy Division (1999 – Present)
- Continuing Education
- • Diploma of Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy: Level 3 Lower Extremity (2008)
- • E2-E3: Lower Extremity (1999)
- • V2-V3: Lumbo-Sacral (1999)
- • E2-E3: Upper Extremity (1998)
- • E1-V1: Biomechanical Assessment of the Upper and Lower Extremities (1998)
- • V2-V3: Cervico-Thoracic (1998)
- • McKenzie Part A (Lumbar Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy ) (1997)
- • McKenzie Part B (Cervical Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy) (1997)
- • McKenzie Part C (Extremities Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy) (2007)
- • Acupuncture Part 1 – Introductory Level – Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (1997)
- • The Canadian Golf Forum(2008)
- • Sport Physiotherapy Canada (SPD Level 1) (1999)
- • Sport Physiotherapy Canada (SPD Level 2) (2002)
- • Custom Orthotic Therapy (2000)
- • Advanced Foot Biomechanics & Orthotic Therapy (2007)
- • Sixth Annual Conference on Neurobehavioural Rehabilitation in Acquired Brain Injury (1999)
- • First Responder – Canadian Red Cross (1998, 2001)
- • Certified Standardized Test of Fitness Appraiser (1991-1993)
- • Provincial Volleyball Referee (1989-1992)
- Field Work
- • Run for Southlake Hospital – Physiotherapist (Aurora, ON – 2011)
- • Athletics Ontario Minor Cross Country Championships – Physiotherapist (King City, ON -2010)
- • OFSAA Country Country Championships – Physiotherapist (Etobicoke, ON – 2010)
- • Athletics Ontario Cross Country Club Championships – Physiotherapist (King City, ON – 2009)
- • OFSAA Country Country Championships – Physiotherapist (Toronto, ON – 2009)
- • Hartwell Challenge – Physiotherapist (Aurora, ON – 2009)
- Professional Athletic Involvement:
- • Hanji Aoki Cup International Chiba Ekiden Marathon Relay, Staff Physiotherapist (Chiba, Japan – 2011)
- • Toronto Scotiabank Marathon Weekend, Physiotherapy consultant (Toronto, ON – 2011)
- • Canadian Road 10km Championships, Physiotherapy consultant (2011)
- • 7th NACAC Cross Country Championships, Staff Physiotherapist (Trinidad – 2011)
- • Hanji Aoki Cup International Chiba Ekiden Marathon Relay, Staff Physiotherapist (Chiba, Japan – 2010)
- • Toronto Scotiabank Marathon Weekend, Physiotherapy consultant (Toronto, ON – 2010)
- • 38th IAAF World Cross Country Championships, Staff Physiotherapist (Bydgoszcz – POL – 2010)
- • 6th NACAC Cross Country Championships, Staff Physiotherapist, 2010 (Tobago – 2010)
- • Hanji Aoki Cup International Chiba Ekiden Marathon Relay, Staff Physiotherapist (Chiba, Japan – 2009)
- • 12th IAAF World Track and Field Championships, World Marathon Cup, Canadian Medical Team Member (Berlin, Germany – 2009)
- Awards
- • York Region Readers Choice Award recipient for excellence in Physiotherapy (2009)
- • Department of Physical Therapy Recognition Award, for exceptional contributions to the education of Physical Therapy students at the University of Toronto. (2005-2008)
- Professional Conferences:
- • 6th Annual SPort INovation (SPIN) Summit, Toronto. 2011. Sponsored by Own The Podium
- • Sport Med Conference (2011)
- • Mondo Endurance Training Summit (2010)
- Leadership Involvements:
- • Corporate Financial Sponsor of Athletics Toronto (2011)
- • Athletics Toronto – Physiotherapist (2010-present)
- • Brooks Canada Marathon Project – Physiotherapist (2008-present)
- • Newmarket Huskies Track Club – Physiotherapist (2004-present)
- • SAC Summer Camp, Leadership Team Member – Health Care Coordinator (2003-2006)
- • Madawaska Volleyball Camp – Head Therapist/Medical Director (2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008)
- • Madawaska All-Sports Camp – Assistant Camp Director (2003-2004, 2006- 2007)
- • Newmarket Huskies Track Club – Vice President (2003)
- • Task Force member and clinical staff representative for the University of Toronto and the David L. MacIntosh Clinic, (1999)
- • Continuous Quality Improvement committee Team Member, St. Mary’s of The Lake Hospital (1997-1998)
- • Athletes in Action Team Leader, Queen’s University (1995-1996)
- • Captain of Queen’s Men’s Varsity Volleyball Team (1994-1995)
- • Rehabilitation Therapy Society all Year Social Convenor, Queen’s University (1994-1995)
- • Physiotherapy Class President, Queen’s University (1993)
- Student Representative at the American Physiotherapy Association and Canadian Physiotherapy Association Conference in Toronto, Canada, Queen’s University (1993)
- Original Team Member and Initiator for Canadian Physiotherapy Association – National Student Assembly (1993)
- Lecture Presentations:
- • “Defying Gravity: A Runner’s Guide to the Universe”. Presentation at Runners Expo., Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon; (Toronto, 2011)
- • “Eating for Exercise” seminar presented ,in partnership with Sports Dietician, Heidi Smith, Aurora, Ontario. In collaboration with St. Andrew’s College, Newmarket Huskies Track Club and Aurora Storm Volleyball Club (2008)
- • Longstanding and frequently invited speaker for the Aurora, Newmarket and Richmond Hill Running Room’s since 2002. Topics range include: stretching, injury prevention, foot biomechanics and shoe selection, strength training
- • Guest Speaker, Rogers Cable Television, “Insights” Program. Panel included Silvia Ruegger and store manager of the Aurora Running Room. Topic: Running and Activity (2008)
- • Guest Speaker York Region District School Board, Professional Development Day for Athletic Directors. Topic: Athletic Taping Seminar (2007, 2008)
- • Educator in conjunction with St. Mary’s of The Lake Hospital-third year of Queen’s University Physiotherapy Students (1997-1998)
- • Course: Exercise Physiology and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- • Invited panel member for Queen’s University, Physiotherapy Department: “Professional Perspectives on Clinical Education and its role in the students academic learning experience.” (1997)
- • Invited panel member at the Ontario Physiotherapy Association Conference, Kingston, Ontario, regarding the Physiotherapy National Examination (1998)
- Community Service/Involvement:
- Corporate sponsor for Hartwell Challenge/Run For Southlake (2009, 2010, 2011)
- Race Director and Title Sponsor for Aurora Canada Day Miler, Aurora, Ontario (2010)
- Queen’s University Men’s Intervarsity Volleyball Team Assistant Coach (1997-1998)
- Little League Soccer Coach (North York Soccer League) (1994)
- Publications:
- Shopper’s Home Health Care Newsletter – Editorial Contribution. “Running away from pain: The biomechanic approach to sports injuries.” (1999)
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Sally Webb
Sally Webb
Registered Massage Therapist
Diploma Massage Therapy Program (Elmcrest College), Honours Certificate Applied Health Services and Spa Management.
Sally has participated in an HIV/AIDs clinic outreach program and has worked at Sunnybrook Hospital for labour, delivery, peri and post natal care massage. She has had the opportunity of working at Elmspa in Toronto providing volunteer work at the annual Cheerios Mother/Daughter walkathon, the 2007 Newmarket Relay for Life as well as massaging Master Swimmers at the Etobicoke Olympian Pool. She has also gained experience working with racquet sports and golf related injuries while employed in a country club setting. As week as being a Registered Massage Therapist, Sally is also a member of the Ontario Massage Therapists Association (OMTA).
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Patti O’Neill
Patti O’Neill
Pilates & Yoga Instructor
Patti has completed the Fitness Leadership Program at Seneca College and has been teaching fitness for 13 years. Special certifications include Stott Pilates mat (all levels) and Yoga. Patti has also recently trained at Stott for her reformer certification. She enjoys long distance training with her friends, and has completed three destination marathons.
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Debbie Allen
Debbie Allen
Homeopathic Physician and Registered Holistic Nutritionist
DSHomMed (Canadian College of Homeopathic Medicine), R.H.N. (Canadian School of Natural Nutrition)
After graduating from nutrition school in 2002, Debbie opened her own nutritional practice healthonearth.ca.
She specialized in sports nutrition and chronic illnesses. She realized her passion for Homeopathic Medicine and decided to extend her education in Classical Homeopathy. Debbie brings a unique mix and fresh ideas of nutrition and homeopathy to the clinic, providing individualized nutritional, homeopathic and lifestyle support. She specializes in restoring health, chronic and acute health issues, healthy eating programs, sports nutrition and weight management.
Debbie’s journey into nutrition and natural medicine began in 2001 when she began long distance running. She started educating herself on healthy eating and eventually went back to school. Since graduating, Debbie teaches at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, and does public speaking for corporate events, the Running Room, fitness clubs as well as other public venues about nutrition and homeopathic medicine. She presently teaches at the Canadian College of Homeopathic Medicine. She has also participated in radio programs, speaking about health and nutritional issues.Debbie has completed five half marathons and one full marathon. Her real passion is to assist her patients to restore their health through good life choices, proper nutrition and to develop self-awareness as they undertake homeopathic treatment.
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Paula Man
Paula Man
Personal Trainer
Paula Man is the owner of Performance Fitness, wife & mother of 3 small children and a woman with a reputation! Paula has been in the fitness industry for 11yrs and has her diploma in Fitness & Health Promotion from Fanshawe College. She is a CPTN certified personal trainer & a BOSU balance trainer. Paula has worked as a personal trainer at the Richmond Hill Country Club, as the Personal Training Director at Glenway Country Club as well as privately training clients in their homes.
She also specializes in Sport Specific training and has been hired by the Newmarket Soccer Club to design training programs for their rep soccer players as well as working with hockey players & figure skaters.
Paula’s passion is to motivate, challenge & allow her clients to accomplish goals they never thought possible.She has a love for fitness and walks the walk. Paula has run 6 marathons, multiple half marathons as well as well as many other races. Her latest accomplishment was completing Disney’s Goofy Challenge in Jan 2010 where she ran a 1/2 marathon Saturday as well as a full marathon the next day. She challenges herself as much as she challenges her clients and the goals she has accomplished have been amazing.
If you want to get results, fall in love with fitness & have a blast at the same time…you have come to the right trainer.





