Written By Olena Riznyk
NORTH MIDDLESEX – Marcia de Gouw, clinic and facility director of Damen Optimal Health and Fitness, presented council with an update on the clinic’s work and growth during a delegation at the recent council meeting on March 18.
The clinic moved into the North Middlesex arena approximately 18 months ago and, since then, has taken on a dual role–continuing as a healthcare centre while also running the municipality’s fitness facilities and gym memberships.
Since relocating, the clinic has expanded the range of services it offers. In addition to physiotherapy, it now provides chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, osteopathy, psychotherapy and naturopathic medicine. More specialized services, including pediatric physiotherapy, neuro rehabilitation, vestibular therapy and women’s health programs, have also been introduced.
De Gouw said the clinic is seeing steady demand, with regular referrals coming from doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers, both locally and from outside the area.
On the fitness side, the facility has also grown. Membership now sits at around 200 people, with efforts made to keep pricing accessible, including options for lower-income residents. The gym offers a mix of classes and programs, from cycling to practitioner-led sessions like pilates and yoga. Running groups, as well as programs for children and youth, are also part of the schedule.
The clinic has also been active in the community. Over the past year, it has supported events such as Family Day activities, the Parkhill Fair, local tournaments and school initiatives. Staff have also been visiting schools to lead sessions on health, fitness and the human body.
Partnerships with local sports teams have been another focus. The clinic works with area hockey organizations, providing concussion screening, training sessions and access to rehabilitation services. Players also receive gym access during the season.
Looking ahead, de Gouw said the team plans to expand its work with local baseball programs and continue running community workshops and fitness challenges. The clinic is also considering the possibility of introducing 24-hour gym access to better serve residents with shift work or irregular schedules, though that idea is still in early discussion.
Council members asked about staffing, membership growth and how extended hours might work in practice. De Gouw said the clinic operates with a team of healthcare professionals and support staff, and any move toward round-the-clock access would need to address safety and accessibility concerns.
She said the goal moving forward is to keep growing participation and make it easier for residents to access both healthcare and fitness services in the community.
