Serving the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan,
Columbia-Shuswap, Kootenay Boundary, Central Kootenay & Okanagan-Similkameen Districts

Address:

#109A – 1960 Springfield Rd 
Kelowna, BC V1Y 5V7

Clinic Hours:
9:00am – 4:00pm (Mon-Thurs)
9:00am – 4:00pm (Fri)
Clinic Number: 
778-478-7014
Toll Free:
1-888-913-7919
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Meet Our Team

Birgit Gremen, C.O.(c) Lead Certified Orthotist

Birgit Gremmen, C.O.(c)

Lead Certified Orthotist

In 2006, Birgit started Ortho Design and made a long-time dream of business ownership a reality. Forty-plus years in various work environments has expanded Birgit’s scope of practice and her experience with most age groups and types of physical challenges. Early exposure to the materials and tools used in the field came by helping her father, a German master shoemaker, in his shop. Combined 15 Years working at the rehab centres of the Calgary General Hospital, as well as Kelowna General Hospital rehab, brought a great connection with healthcare professionals and treating patients on an inpatient as well as outpatient basis. By working in a rehab setting, one learns about the nature and course of many neurological and orthopaedic pathologies from post-accident or trauma to progressing through the rehab and then hopefully back home.

After graduating with an honours diploma in Prosthetics and Orthotics in 1990, Birgit worked in the lower mainland, mainly in paediatrics, with the opportunity to consult at many BC Children’s Hospital specialized clinics. This included the scoliosis clinic, neuromuscular clinic and orthopaedic clinics.

“ I love that I have a place to welcome many of the clients that I have met over the past 30 years here in the Okanogan and Kootenay areas. I’m most proud of how every member of our team treats clients with warmth, empathy and professionalism. It is everything I always wanted when dreaming about having my own clinic.”
Birgit can be spotted hiking, biking, skiing on Monashee and Selkirk mountains accompanied by her dogs and family.

Anna Kruithof, BSC., CO(c)

Anna Kruithof, BSc., C.O.(c)

Certified Orthotist

In September 2022, Anna joined Ortho Design after years as a Certified Orthotist in the Lower Mainland. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Victoria (2011) and distinction in Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics from BCIT (2016), she brings expertise. Anna’s passion lies in aiding all ages, particularly in pediatrics, treating diverse conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, to common infant presentations such as developmental dysplasia of the hip or plagiocephaly and adolescent concerns such as scoliosis. Her experience working with adults is broad, from those experiencing pain from plantar fasciitis or osteoarthritis to those with mobility challenges from a stroke or accident. Collaborating with Ortho Design’s technicians, Anna crafts unique orthotic solutions that reflect patients’ personalities through custom photos and designs. Kindness and understanding shape her patient approach, ensuring truly personalized orthotic experiences. Anna’s new Okanagan life involves exploring trails, camping, and pursuing cross-country skiing, all while seeking exceptional bakeries.

Why Choose a Certified Orthotist
Deborah Rarog, Ortho Design Office Manager

Deborah Rarog

Office Manager

Deborah started working at Ortho Design in January 2015.   After working from a home office for 17 years, she wanted to work in an environment where she could interact with clients and incorporate her bookkeeping knowledge.  Deborah processes client files, handles funding applications, and does all things financial.  She enjoys meeting all of the clients who come to the clinic but especially loves seeing all of the children who come through our doors. 

In her spare time, Deborah likes to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren, visit with friends, and enjoy all the Okanagan offers.

Colleen Deleurme - Assistant Office Manager Ortho Design

Colleen Deleurme

Assistant Office Manager

Colleen was working in the office furniture manufacturing industry for more than 20 years when she decided she wanted to work in a place that offered a more personal interaction with people. While in the process of taking a medical terminology course, the opportunity to work at Ortho Design came up. She joined the team in December 2021 and has been busy learning this new field.

During the summer, Colleen spends her time in the yard and garden; in the winter, she’ll watch hockey and do interior home projects.

Ryan Kendal Registered Technician Ortho Design

Ryan Kendal, RTO(c)

Registered Technician

Ryan came to Ortho Design in 2016 and achieved his technical certification in 2021. His contributions to our clinic have helped us provide exceptional orthotic treatments to all our patients. Ryan is an accomplished photographer and craftsperson who brings this eye for detail in everything he does. His quiet sense of humor is always appreciated.
When Ryan isn’t hard at work at the office, you will find him helping with the family greenhouse business. He also utilizes his superior hand skills to create beautiful woodwork, leather craft and bonsai.

Laura Schwarz Registered Technician Ortho Design

Laura Schwarz, RTO(c)

Registered Technician

Laura joined the Ortho Design team in 2010. She successfully challenged the exam in 2015 to become a Registered Technician in Orthotics and lab manager. Before joining Ortho Design, Laura was an artist, and she brings these creative skills to her profession. Creating braces that are not only functional, but also look great. She takes pride in helping all of our clients create one-of-a-kind devices that reflect their personalities. Laura has a strong passion for orthotic fabrication and diligently works to keep up to date with the latest advancements in materials and devices.
Laura is usually on the pickleball court, enjoying the competition in her spare time. She also enjoys reading, riding her bike to work, spending time with family and her newest challenge, sewing beautiful bags.

Che and Pico

Che and Pico

Patient Greeters

Pico and Che are the greeting committee are are generally at the clinic when Birgit sees local clients. These Havanese boys come from Riondel, near Nelson, in the Kooteney‘s. These furry friends are known for their relaxed and happy vibe, typical of souls from the Kooteney’s.  Che, the big boy is super playful and loves to chase a ball or anything moving. Pico the younger bro loves cuddles, don’t be surprised if you see him standing up like a gopher on his hind legs begging for a belly rub. Both are pros in bringing smiles to faces young and old.

They are hypoallergenic and won’t leave any hair on you!

 

Please let us know if anyone you’re bringing to the clinic has an aversion to dogs as are goal is to make people as comfortable as possible.

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