In the News
Reprint provided courtesy of The Financial Post
Prosthetist makes a difference with art
Burke Campbell, Financial Post
Published: Monday, June 16, 2008
Wendy Smith runs Lifeart (www.lifeart.ca), a Winnipeg firm that makes custom prosthetics for those with missing fingers, hands, and breasts. Ms. Smith tells the Financial Post what motivated her to become an entrepreneur.
Early curiosity "My mother was a nurse and my father, an electrician. He ran an appliance repair business. As a young girl, I was fascinated by the tools in his basement shop. That's probably where my interest in making things began."
First job "I took an aptitude test at Manpower. To my surprise, the results suggested that I'd make a good prosthetist."
Seamless fittings "After technical study in Toronto, I worked in Winnipeg at the Health Sciences Centre. Eventually, in 1995, I opened my business, Lifeart Prosthetics. The prosthetics I make are intended to be both functional, and in appearance, highly realistic."
Dealing with people "Each person reacts differently to losing a body part and its impact can vary depending on a person's age. As a certified prosthetist, I work closely with the doctor and patient."
A larger mission "Prosthetics can make a huge difference in people's lives. My expertise isn't just a technical art; it's communicating with the individuals I meet."
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