Marize graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Kinesiology and Physical Education and earned a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from McGill University. She is a member of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) and the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA), including its Oncology Division. In 2020, she was awarded the designation of Clinical Specialist in Oncology by the Physiotherapy Specialty Certification Board of Canada.
Marize’s ongoing involvement in oncology rehabilitation research reflects her commitment to advancing the science and clinical practice of physiotherapy. She has contributed to the development and dissemination of knowledge through publications in peer-reviewed journals, including The Journal of Community and Supportive Oncology, Journal of Cancer Survivorship, Clinical Breast Cancer, International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology, Rehabilitation Process and Outcome, and Medical Oncology. As a co-principal investigator and clinical supervisor at McGill University, she contributed to the development of an evidence-based patient education resource aimed at reducing fracture risk in individuals with bone metastases.
Marize is also involved extensively in education. She is a co-coordinator of the Oncology Rehabilitation course offered through McGill University’s School of Physical and Occupational Therapy and has taught continuing education courses for licensed physiotherapists through organizations including the OPPQ, CPA, Pelvic Health Solutions and Embodia. She has presented at national conferences across Canada, including in Montreal, Ottawa, Kingston, and Toronto, as well as internationally in India, in a variety of capacities, most often as an invited guest speaker.
Marize is a certified lymphedema therapist through the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) and currently serves on its Board of Directors. She is also trained in lipedema management through the Lymphedema Training Academy in the United Kingdom. She has worked extensively at the McGill University Health Centre Lymphedema Clinic, a LE&RN Network of Excellence providing comprehensive multidisciplinary care for individuals with lymphatic diseases.
In addition, Marize is a Bone Fit™ Trained Specialist through Osteoporosis Canada and has specialized training in posture and movement system impairment. Outside of her clinical and academic work, she volunteers as a Canadian National Para Swimming Medical Classifier, working with para-swimming athletes across Canada. She is currently working toward becoming an International Classifier, with the long-term goal of participating at the Paralympic Games.