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Meet Lisa Cater, a Clerk in CHEO's Health Records Department.
At 12, Lisa Cater was diagnosed with a brain tumor and rushed into emergency surgery at CHEO. Six months later, the tumor aggressively returned. After two more surgeries, Lisa developed hydrocephalus, a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles, requiring a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt and several revisions to ensure proper function.
After 30 rounds of radiation, Lisa was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain cyst—unrelated but another blow. She spent her 16th birthday in the hospital awaiting surgery. Following the procedures, she was left with double vision, tremors, balance and coordination issues, and headaches.
Through it all, Lisa credits her mom and family for keeping her grounded. “My mom was a huge advocate. She was by my side the entire time.” She also remembers the warmth of her nurse's hand the night before surgery and the staff who decorated her room for her birthday. “I never felt alone,” Lisa says.
Lisa’s journey with CHEO continued when she attended CHEO School while undergoing rehabilitation for her many side effects. She was later diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from the extensive medical events she endured.
Despite the obstacles, Lisa graduated with honours from Algonquin College’s Early Childhood Education program and Herzing College’s Medical Office Administration program.
Today, Lisa lives independently, focusing on the positive.
“I’m grateful this experience helped me realize what truly matters. I wouldn’t be who I am without it.”
Wanting to give back to the hospital that saved her life, Lisa returned to CHEO—not as a patient, but as a Clerk in the Health Records department.
“I know the hospital can be a scary place. I hope to inspire families to get through the tough times and give them hope that things can get better.”
For Lisa, CHEO’s secret is its team. “Everyone’s got your back. They made it so welcoming when I came.”
CHEO is full of resilient people like Lisa. Join us.