Fraser Valley Prosthetics has been in business for 30 years, and although the technology has changed in that time, the eagerness to help the community has not.
“We want to show our appreciation to the patients putting their trust in me 30 years ago,” owner and certified prosthetist Louis Janzé says. “Also showing our appreciation to their families for putting their trust in me to take care of them, and the community at large.”
The open house, located at 2627 West Railway St. in Abbotsford, is on Saturday (March 2) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Janzé grew up in Hazelton. His parents told him, “There is a world out there, so go find it.” He found his ‘innate’ calling in bringing prosthesis services to the Fraser Valley. Before Janzé, patients had to travel to Vancouver.
Janzé received his education from the British Columbia Institute of Technology, back when prosthesis were heavy and wool socks were used. Now, the science has improved dramatically. Janzé and his team are always keeping up with the latest cutting edge technology. With silicone liners, dynamic feet, articulated angles and lighter material, Janzé is able to tailor each prosthetic device to the individual’s needs.
Using custom-engineered machinery and years of expertise, Janzé and his staff treat upper and lower limb amputee patients. Although a technical craft, his team gets to show their creative side and have patients’ designs come to life. He has even made a prosthesis with a Terry Fox laminated loonie.
Although every patient and their story is meaningful, Janzé recalls a time where an individual who had suffered significant amputations said, “If this didn’t happen to me, I never would have met you wonderful people.”
The open house is in celebration of individuals like her, and the impact the family business has made across the Fraser Valley and beyond.
They have also been able to collect prosthetics and donate to people in need, as well as distribute to Third World countries.
Janzé is still excited to come to work everyday and make a difference, saying, “We so dramatically affect people’s lives. Our core mission statement is enhancing independence.”