For over 30 years, speech-language pathologist Tammy Chan has dedicated her career to supporting children and families in the Fraser Health region.
“People often ask why I’ve stayed in one place,” shares Tammy, speech-language pathologist at the Burnaby Public Health Unit. “The truth is that the profession has changed so much around me. I’ve never stopped learning, adapting or growing.”
As a speech-language pathologist, Tammy helps children develop the communication skills they need to connect, learn, and thrive. Support might begin as early as a routine screening at a local drop-in session and can grow to include comprehensive assessments, therapy sessions, collaborative planning with caregivers, and ongoing partnerships with professionals across sectors.
“Whether it’s helping a child say their first words or supporting a preschooler to express their thoughts more clearly, every small step matters,” says Tammy.
Tammy’s work has a profound impact on children and their families. She recalls Faith, a particularly bubbly three-year-old full of curiosity and warmth. Faith reached out as a young adult, to inquire about volunteering with speech-language pathologists to support their sessions with kids. Her goal was to become a speech-language pathologist.
“I remembered her warm smile and enthusiasm from all those years ago, and it hadn’t changed,” Tammy says. “It was an absolute joy to know she had found her calling in this field. But I wasn’t surprised as she always had the heart for it.”
"I received speech therapy from ages three to five and still remember the strawberry-flavoured tongue depressors Tammy used," says Faith Yuen. "Her support stayed with my family and me. Volunteering with her years later deepened my passion for speech-language pathology. I know how life-changing it can be and that's the kind of speech-language pathologist I strive to be."
Faith now works in the school system and with a private practice, continuing the support cycle for children who need speech-language therapy.
While the focus of speech therapy has always been on helping children reach their speech and language goals, families are now involved every step of the way.
“Over the years, we’ve seen a powerful shift toward family-centred care,” explains Tammy. “We no longer expect parents just to observe. We invite them in, empower them with tools, and coach them so that progress continues beyond the session.”
Additionally, through strong partnerships within Fraser Health and community-based services, including early intervention services, mental health teams, audiologists and pediatricians, children benefit from a coordinated circle of care that meets their unique needs.
“We can’t do this alone,” emphasizes Tammy. “Community partners are essential in helping children reach their communication goals and make the most of their early years.”
As we celebrate Speech and Hearing Month this May in Canada, we honour the power of communication and dedicated speech-language therapists like Tammy who help people discover and grow their speech and language skills.
Visit our website to learn more about the speech and language development services available at Fraser Health for children.
