How our stories hold the power to transform healthcare
Talk given at TEDxChicago 2024
Chicago, September 27th, 2024
Abbie Clary, FAIA, FACHA
Healthcare Architect
About the Talk
When architect Abbie Clary experienced the heartbreaking loss of her father within a fragmented healthcare system, it forever transformed her approach to healthcare design. Through her deeply personal story, Clary reveals how the current healthcare environment often fails to support patients and families during their most vulnerable moments. Drawing from interviews involving hundreds of patients, loved ones, and clinicians, she demonstrates how human-centered design can transform healthcare spaces from institutional to empathetic. From maternal care to cancer treatment, Clary demonstrates how thoughtful design can reduce anxiety, support dignity, and even improve outcomes. Her presentation combines professional expertise with powerful personal narrative to advocate for a fundamental reimagining of healthcare spaces that prioritize human experience alongside medical efficiency.
Source: TEDxChicago
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About Abbie
Abbie Clary has nearly 30 years of experience helping globally recognized institutions architect more accessible healthcare spaces and is the Global Health Practice Co-Director at CannonDesign. Abbie champions projects that challenge the status quo and break down existing barriers within the medical world, while emphasizing social progress and encouraging empathy-driven approaches. Her passion lies in translating design visions into inclusive and supportive experiences. For the entirety of her career, she has held the unwavering belief that intentionally designed platforms can set everyone up to thrive.
TEDxChicago 2024
TEDxChicago is Chicago’s biggest stage for ideas + connection at the convergence of our culture, innovation, and democracy. Rooted in the vibrant and dynamic city of Chicago, a hub of innovation, culture, and resilience, TEDxChicago celebrates the city’s unique spirit and its history of fostering groundbreaking ideas and movements. Our event serves as a beacon of hope and progress, reflecting Chicago's legacy as a place where visionaries and change-makers converge to make a difference. As we gather in this great city, we honor those who are Lighting the Way toward a brighter tomorrow, both on the stage and among all of you. Join us at TEDxChicago 2024: Lighting the Way in this extraordinary journey of discovery, where the power of ideas will illuminate our path and inspire us all to become leaders in our own right.
Source: TEDxChicago
Coach’s Reflections
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Dustin Huibregtse
Founding Principal
Talks & Speaker Coach
