Shubert Chang, CPO/L, owner and president of Dynamic Orthopedics, Davie, Florida, passed away from heart failure on August 23 at the age of 47.
Chang was born in Hong Kong, moved to the United States at the age of seven, and, at the age of 15 was in a motorcycle accident that led to a left transtibial amputation. He earned a bachelor of science degree in O&P from Florida International University in 1992. Chang and his wife, Melisa Chang, PT, opened Dynamic Orthopedics in 2002. Chang, a member of the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association and the Florida Association of Orthotists & Prosthetists, lectured for the Nova Southeastern University Physical Therapy Program and the Broward College Physical Therapy Assistant Program.
The Palm Beach Post called Chang one of South Florida’s top pediatric prosthetist-orthotists who served more than 10,000 children, most of whom had special needs.
“This is a big loss to this community I don’t think will ever be filled,” Michael Tidwell, MD, told The Palm Beach Post. Tidwell, an orthopedic surgeon, referred clients to Chang for more than ten years.
“I can say, after more than 30 years working as a pediatric physical therapist, no one else could do what he did,” said Mary Pengelley, PT, in the same interview. “I can also say with absolute certainty, that no one person I know has had a greater positive impact on children with special needs than Shubert.”
Chang is survived by his wife, Melisa; daughters Cameryn and Amanda; and several other family members.
