Stephanie is a Nigerian-trained physiotherapist, an MSc student in the School of Rehabilitation Sciences at McMaster University, and a member of the Emerging Research Professionals Across Africa Network (ERPAAN).

Her research focuses on pain management, accessible care, and health equity, driven by a commitment to advancing an "all hands-on deck" approach to healthcare delivery. Her funded research project, "Transforming Pain Conversations at the Point of Care: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Pain Neuroscience Education for Healthcare Aides," addresses a critical gap in long-term care by integrating healthcare aides into the pain management process. Because healthcare aides spend substantial time with residents especially in longterm care environments, their understanding of pain as a biopsychosocial phenomenon is essential. In the context of Pain Neuroscience Education, language can either heal or harm, therefore, this study evaluates the effectiveness of Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) in shifting aides' attitudes and beliefs about pain, which could in turn change their communication strategies with people living with pain.

Ultimately, this work seeks to foster an inclusive, interprofessional care model where every team member is empowered to support individuals living with pain.

VHA Research Area of Focus: Better Care