Meet Our Pedorthists
Jen Gulas, C. Ped (C)
In September 2017, Jen became a valued member of the Dearborn Health team. She is a Kitchener native and has been practicing pedorthics in the Waterloo and surrounding areas since 2007.
Education and Certification
Jen holds a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education from Wilfrid Laurier University. In her third year, she initiated her steps into the pedorthic profession through a mentorship with a local pedorthist.
She went on to complete a Diploma in Pedorthics and graduated with Distinction from Western University. In 2007 she completed her National Certification and received her designation of C. Ped (C), Canadian Certified Pedorthist.
Jen serves on the Ethics Committee and Continuing Education Committee for the College of Pedorthics of Canada; she also continues as an active supervisor to Pedorthic candidates who are enrolled in the Pedorthic program through Western University.
In 2015, Jen was nominated and elected by her peers and currently serves on the Board of Directors for The College of Pedorthics of Canada.
In Her Spare Time
In her spare time, Jen enjoys hiking, painting and cherishes every moment with her two children.
Patrick Purves, Co-Owner, Active Alignment,
C. Ped and Foot Orthotics and Bracing Specialist
A native of Wingham, Ontario, Patrick has been practicing pedorthics in the Kitchener-Waterloo area since 2011. He holds a Bachelor of Human Kinetics with Honours in Movement Science from the University of Windsor, a foundation that ignited his passion for rehabilitation. Patrick began his career as a kinesiologist and personal trainer before pursuing a post-graduate Diploma in Pedorthics from Western University.
An avid athlete in his youth, Patrick’s interest in sports medicine grew after he was introduced to pedorthics through a personal experience with custom foot orthotics. His successful recovery and return to sports gave him a deep appreciation for the impact pedorthics can have on movement and quality of life.
Turning Athletic Experience Into Pedorthic Expertise
As the co-owner of Active Alignment, Patrick serves as a pedorthic clinician at the company’s offices in Waterloo, Cambridge, and Stratford. He is the lead fabrication specialist for custom foot orthotics. He has a keen interest in research, design, and continuous learning, always seeking new ways to improve patient outcomes from both clinical and manufacturing perspectives.
Outside the Practice
When he’s not working, Patrick enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s fishing, hunting, or hiking. He values quality time with his family and two dogs.
