Izzy Morrissey (biology)
Izzy Morrissey (biology) has always known that she wants to be a doctor specializing in pediatrics. Her love for science and drive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families has made this an obvious choice. A fifth-year student, Izzy completed her second co-op at Victoria General Hospital, where she received the BioTalent wage subsidy award, enabling her to pursue hands-on learning.
Her work experience led her to be awarded the 2024 Co-op Student of the Year award for Optional and Professional Co-op Programs.
A study on pediatric neurology
At Rehab Medicine, Izzy worked everyday with Spasticity patients; measuring range of motion, assisting and hand holding during procedures. The research Izzy was apart of is known as Cryoneurolysis for Spasticity, pioneered by Dr. Daniel Vincent and Dr. Paul Winston.
“This experience solidified my passion for healthcare and my desire to pursue a career that integrates scientific knowledge with compassionate care,” says Izzy. “Throughout my placement, I became acutely aware of systemic gaps in the healthcare system. I was inspired by the team and clinic’s commitment to inclusivity and their efforts in trauma-informed care, addressing systemic inequities, and prioritizing culturally safe practices.”
Learning from medical experts
Over the course of her co-op, Izzy connected with another spasticity expert from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and ended up traveling to Atlanta to shadow him. Recognizing the lack of representation for children with cerebral palsy and the challenges of explaining medical procedures, she wrote a children’s book to help young patients understand their treatments.
Working to fund a continuing co-op opportunity
Determined to support future research, Izzy dedicated countless hours securing provincial and federal grants to establish a long-term research assistant position at VGH.
Beyond her research, Izzy serves as the UVic Senate’s student representative for the Faculty of Science and actively mentors students pursuing careers in healthcare.
Launching a non-profit
Spasticity is a movement disorder caused by brain and spinal cord injuries which causes abnormal tightness and prolonged contraction.
Inspired by the work done at Victoria General Hospital and the need for research and awareness for this condition, Izzy established a non-profit organization called the Spasticity Research and Awareness Society.
Izzy and her team are dedicated to advancing research and advocacy for effective spasticity rehabilitation, ensuring that cutting-edge knowledge and treatments are accessible to those in need. Spasticity Research and Awareness Society strives to be the leading educational resource, promoting accurate understanding and respectful language surrounding spasticity to enhance awareness within the broader community.