Newsletter Federation of Medical Women of Canada Fédération des femmes médecins du Canada

Spring 2009 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2

2009 AGM, Leadership and Advocacy Workshops: September 26–27 à la Montréal

By President-Elect & AGM Chair: Dr. Andrea Canty Photo: Normand Rajotte

Are you striving for harmony in your Janet Dollin, will tell the stories of fe- be awarded this year’s prestigious May personal and professional lives? Are male physicians, how they “customized” Cohen Award for her signifi cant contribu- you struggling to fi nd balance between a balance in their lives. Dr. Nahid Azad, tion to the promotion of women’s health building a career and having a life? If you our Newsletter Editor, working with our and to the Federation. Please join us in are, you’re not alone. Please join us in Student Representative, Rachel Ptashny, applauding these two very deserving and Montréal, September 26 and 27, 2009 to will offer advice on setting boundaries and amazing women. discover some useful strategies and meet how to deal with harassment and intimida- other physicians interested in this chal- tion in the medical workplace. As well, The backdrop for the FMWC 2009 AGM lenging and exciting journey. we are organizing a panel discussion with will be the luxurious InterContinental a variety of specialists who will offer their Hotel in the Old Port of Montréal. I en- The title of our 2009 Advocacy and strategies for choosing a “non-traditional” courage you to arrive a day or two early, Leadership Workshops is: Beyond specialty as part of our “mentoring morn- walk through the Old Port; drink a latté at Balance - Achieving Professional and ing” for medical students. The Committee an outdoor café, visit an art gallery...go Personal Harmony. Our objective in is pleased to announce that Dr. Alex shopping. We will be introducing you to holding these workshops is to provide Ferenczy will be sharing the latest infor- the history of Old Montréal in a visit to strategies and tools for female physicians mation about HPV vaccines. We will also Pointe-à-Callière for our Saturday Soirée, to achieve harmony between their pro- have a workshop on palliative care and our followed by a gourmet meal at the ar- fessional and personal lives: to illustrate President, Dr. Gartke, will be presenting chaeological museum itself. Afterwards, ways to resolve confl ict effectively and to the results of the FMWC/CMA joint study we’ll stroll back to our hotel, taking in the facilitate networking between physicians on workplace fl exibility policies. We’ll be sights and sounds of the city. (For those and, in particular, to foster a mentoring planning a few surprises in keeping with of you who are directionally challenged, relationship with medical students and our theme of Harmony/Balance so expect I urge you to bring a GPS). The evening young physicians. some fun along with our more serious promises to be an entertaining and unique topics! For this conference, FMWC has experience. The conference committee is honoured applied for accreditation (details will be to have a number of distinguished and posted soon on our website). And if a unique conference in a great talented physicians, researchers and pro- hotel in a beautiful city is not enough to fessionals on the agenda for our 2009 And let’s not forget the Saturday entice you, the Conference Committee is workshops. Janice Stein, PhD, will lead Awards Luncheon. Dr. Jane Philpott is offering an Early Bird Draw to give you a workshop on confl ict and negotiation being honoured as our Honorary Member. further incentive to register. Please see the skills from a gender perspective. Dr. Bo Dr. Philpott will inspire us with her work registration information in this newsletter Miedema, PhD, will present the results of with Give a Day. A Past President of for all the details. I’m looking forward to her survey on abuse of female physicians the FMWC, Dr. Charmaine Roye, will seeing you all in Montréal! in the workplace. Our Past President, Dr.

FMWC Mission Statement

The Federation of Medical Women of Canada (FMWC) is La Fédération des femmes médecins du Canada est committed to the development of women physicians and to the vouée à l’avancement des femmes médecins ainsi qu’à la promotion of the well-being of all women. promotion du bien-être des femmes en général. Editorial

FMWC Social Networking – Executive Let’s Tweet Committee By Newsletter Editor: Dr. Nahid Azad

2008–2009 Virtual communi- als networking, sharing information and cation is now a real- ideas. The site is excellent for promoting ity of our lives. We President: Dr. Kathleen Gartke and connecting. It is as if you belong to an hear about Wikis, exclusive golf club (membership is by per- President-Elect: Dr. Andrea Canty Blogs, FaceBook, mission) and when you are socializing, you Past President: Twitter, LinkedIn, are exchanging fi rst hand information. Dr. Janet Dollin YouTube and oth- ers. These are Web In our email we are bombarded with Honorary Secretary: 2.0 services, the countless unsolicited messages which con- Dr. Cathy Wilkie second generation sume our time while we determine which National Treasurer: of web development. Unlike Web 1.0, the are important and which are to be imme- Dr. Susan Wilkinson fi rst generation (1995-2005) of services diately deleted. But Twitter and LinkedIn that focused on delivering information in can be of greater value than email – they MWIA National Coordinator: a unidirectional way, Web 2.0 (2005-pres- provide a social network to which you Dr. Zohra Docrat ent) focuses on user interaction and creates want to belong - only selected people have communicating communities. access and these services support a quick, FMWC Newsletter reliable exchange of ideas. FMWC always Twitter, is a free social networking and encourages its members to network as part micro-blogging service that allows its us- Editor: Dr. Nahid Azad of their leadership development. I don’t ers to send updates and read other users’ think we can ignore these new develop- updates (otherwise known as tweets), ments - you do not want to be the last one The FMWC Newsletter is published which are more personalized. Twitter al- three times a year and sent to members to hear about an interesting idea or new op- lows social messaging utility for staying portunity. Do you? as a perquisite of membership. Next connected in real-time. It lets you keep in deadline is September 15, 2009. touch with people through the exchange Check out: of quick, frequent answers to simple ques- - http://twitter.com Views and reports appearing in tions. LinkedIn is also a social networking - www.linkedin.com the Newsletter are not necessarily site but is more relevant to profession- endorsed by the FMWC. Contributions of articles, reports, letters, notices, resource informaiotn and photographs are encouraged. Share Your Story! Submissions and membership inquiries to the National Offi ce:

FMWC, 780 prom. Echo Drive The FMWC Newsletter wants to recently added a new section called: Ottawa, ON K1S 5R7 hear from you – our members. Please Creative Corner. We know that doc- send us news about achievements, tors have many other talents and we Tel: 613-569-5881 or awards, and accolades as it pertains to want to showcase them. We invite Toll free: 1-877-771-3777 yourself or another FMWC member. creative types to submit poems, draw- Fax: 613-569-4432 or Relevant pictures (please include cap- ings, cartoons or a humorous column Toll free: 1-877-772-5777 tions) are also welcome. (tasteful and short of course). Email: [email protected] NEW! We will be adding in a new The newsletter is for everyone’s Web: www.fmwc.ca feature called “Letter to the Editor”. benefi t and enjoyment – so please Please submit your comments to the contribute! The deadline for the Fall Commercial Publication Agreement editor on your experiences/concerns 2009 newsletter is September 15, No. 1437895 on health care, on women’s health, or 2009. The newsletter will come out ISSN 1209-1332 on your practices. We also welcome in late October. Please forward sub- © 2008 Federation of Medical your feedback and comments on the missions to the National Offi ce at: Women of Canada/ Fédération des newsletter in general. We have also [email protected] femmes médecins du Canada.

Page 2 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 President’s Message

Pap Test Campaign (A “Smear” Campaign Against Cervical Cancer) – Here we go again! By President: Dr. Kathleen Gartke

At the Interim we included an agreement on their part to will be the week of the FMWC Pap test Board meeting participate in and help sponsor our Pap campaign. We are hoping to have all of (January 24th - test campaign. More recently, the Society last year’s participants (thank you again!) Ottawa), the Pap test of Colposcopists of Canada (SCC) has plus many more. This time, we have cho- campaign we ran last also come on board. Both groups felt this sen, coincides with cervical cancer aware- fall was discussed activity was a good fi t with their mission / ness week in several provinces, which is in detail. Everyone vision. Their participation may take a dif- why it was selected. Options this year will seemed pleased with ferent form in some cases – an offer to ac- include scheduling appointments as well the success we en- cept, in referral, patients seen during this as drop-in visits for Pap tests. In fact, if joyed, but also real- campaign whose Pap tests results require that week doesn’t suit, your clinic / offi ce ized there were things about this project further follow up. This should help allay can pick one that does. that could be improved. There are many at least one of the worries expressed. The groups involved in the fi ght against cer- agreement of both of these groups to sup- Keep your eyes peeled for our launch vical cancer and it was felt that drawing port us will increase our resources and in the weeks to come. Cervical cancer is more of these together would strengthen boost the public profi le of this campaign. almost always preventable. Let’s try to our campaign. Last year, our timeline was erase this cancer, which kills 300 to 450 short, from inception to activation (about Our national coordinator has worked Canadian women each year. This year’s 6 –8 weeks). This seriously impacted the with representatives from the SOGC and campaign should be even bigger and bet- amount of publicity we could generate SCC to develop a timeline or critical path- ter! and therefore the number of participating way for the Pap test campaign, to get the offi ces / clinics. Some publicity opportu- publicity and clinic recruitment activi- For more information and to register nities could not be realized when FMWC ties up and running this spring. This will go to: www.fmwc.ca or see over for the members were not available on short no- expand the numbers that we can reach registration form. tice to talk to the press. We did not have and allow an extension of the windowndow an opportunity to supply willing mem- of publicity opportunities. Our industrydustry A “smear” campaign bers with a “press kit” of talking points partners have also expressed a desireesire against to cover the issues they might encounter to be involved and have offered rrealeal cervical cancer in an interview. Posters were available resources to back us up. Discussionsions When was online to print out, but interested facili- are underway about sponsoring ppar-ar- the last time ties did not receive any package includ- ticipant packages, which would bee an enormous boost. Plans are also under-der- you had a No doctor? ing prepared posters, pamphlets and other related materials. Clinics / offi ces were way to develop that press kit or pputut Pap test? No time? rightly concerned about the results from together a fact sheet and some talkinging The Pap test detects signs of cervical No problem. cancer – a preventable disease. the Pap tests they performed. How would points to make discussion with tthehe Health-care professionals are offering convenient they deal with the extra patient care issues press easier, while keeping our mes-es- Pap test clinics for you sage consistent across the country. . this would raise – where could they send Drop-in or make an appointment (bring people needing follow up, when they were your health card). already stretched to the limit trying to look We are reaching out to otherer Visit: www.fmwc.ca after their regular patient load? The feed- members of the health care com-m- to see participating munity. During our last campaign,, clinics in your area and back was amazingly constructive, provid- further information. nurse practitioners played a signifi - ing valuable directions for improving this Take advantage of cant role in delivery of the program. this opportunity during FMWC sponsored campaign. At the end Cervical Cancer Our printed materials will refl ect a Awareness Week of the day, all board members present, af- October 26-30, 2009: fi rmed their support for repeating the cam- greater inclusiveness, hopefully paign and agreed to act as spokespersons drawing in the maximum partici- whenever possible. pation, (beyond the membership of FMWC). We are open to any This clinic/of À ce will offer Pap tests on the following days and times: Since the IBM, we have tried to ad- or all partnerships that will help ______dress as many of the concerns expressed us to reach out to the women we are hoping to serve. ______as possible. When we met with the Society A Project of: Supported by:

______of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC), at the end of January, to Please mark your calendars. Supported through an educational grant: renew our memorandum of understanding October 26th to the 30th, 2009

Page 3 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 A “smear” campaign against ccervicalervical cancercancer REGISTRATION FORM

INFORMATION FOR OUR WEBSITE:

CLINIC or Dr.’s NAME: ______ADDRESS: ______PROVINCE: ______CITY: ______PHONE #: ______

DATE OR DATES: ______TIME(s) (Start to fi nish): ______DROP-IN or APPOINTMENT?: ______

REFERRAL FOR FURTHER TESTING

I am willing to have patients referred to me for further testing when abnormal results occur: € Yes € No If yes, contact information: ______

FOR OUR INTERNAL NOTES (Please fi ll in as well)

CONTACT PERSON(Could be admin): ______CONTACT PERSON’S EMAIL: ______WILLING TO SPEAK TO THE MEDIA? € Yes € No

Send FMWC (Susan Dallin O’Grady) this information via: Fax: 1-877-772-5777 Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-877-771-3777

A Project of: Supported by: Supported through an educational grant: Regional News

Region 1 medical students. An informal survey spent with MD Management advisors, cervical cancer revealed an interest in a future spa event. Grace Verbeek and JF Bordeleau, ad- British Columbia & Yukon We are hoping to host this prior to the dressing the impact of the global fi nan- Dr. Lianne Lacroix, Regional summer. Stay tuned! cial situation in October; learning to cook Representative, Book review: Uppity easy holiday appetizers with Chef Bear in Women We Are! 100-Year History of Region 2 late November; being encouraged to orga- Medical Women of British Columbia nize our life by tips from Robynne Potts, (1893–1993) by Dr Eileen Cambon. Dr. Alberta, Saskatchewan, a professional organizer, in January; and Cambon, a retired ophthalmologist from Manitoba, NWT & Nunavut becoming inspired by the strength and Vancouver and long time FMWC mem- courage of the women in underdevel- Dr. Setorme Tsikata: the Edmonton ber has written a wonderful book! It is a oped countries during an International branch of the FMWC welcomes new large coffee table type book containing Women’s Day celebration with Dr. and old members to upcoming branch ac- the biographies of around 100 women Maureen Law. We are looking ahead to tivities. Suggestions for future branch ac- doctors from British Columbia in the last spring fashion trends, detailed by Image tivities/CMEs are encouraged to help tai- 100 years. It is over 500 pages long with Consultant, Annette McConnell, in April. lor them to meet the needs of members. many black and white photographs and is We were so busy having fun; we hardly Please send your ideas and suggestions to absolutely mesmerizing. I could not put noticed the winter pass us by! the Branch President, Setorme Tsikata at: it down. Dr. Cambon asked women doc- [email protected] tors to write a short autobiography and Region 4 printed them all. For instance, I learned about the fi rst woman doctor in my city, Region 3 Atlantic Provinces Dr. Reba Willits, who graduated in 1930. Ontario, Québec Dr. Andrea Canty, Saint John branch She wrote in her own words about her life news: I am excited to announce that Dr. and challenges. This book is just full of Dr. Crystal Cannon: in March the Kerry Jo Parker will be the new President the stories of kindred spirits who inspire Thunder Bay branch had an evening of the Saint John Branch of the FMWC. us to this day. This book is available from social event at my home which was com- Dr. Parker is the Past-President of the Duthie Books or the UBC Bookstore in bined with a Women-in-Medicine meet Saint John Medical Society and a busy Vancouver. Check their web sites for fur- up for the city. We had good food to eat mother of two boys, when she isn’t deliv- ther information. It sells for around $45 and fun socializing. Female students from ering other people’s babies. Her fi rst task and is well worth it. Congratulations Dr. NOSM attended as well as women doc- as President is to host a potluck supper. Cambon! tors from the community. It was a hor- We think we’ll hold it at Sajni Thomas’s rid night outside - with freezing rain and house...hope you’re reading this, Sajni. Dr. Lianne Lacroix: the Okanagan dangerous conditions but in spite of this branch of FMWC had a dinner scientifi c we had a great turnout - up here weather Shadow Lawn Inn was the site of a meeting in February sponsored by Bayer defeats no one. Several of the local mem- meeting and educational event in February on “The new pill Yaz” by Dr. Yuzpe, Co- bers discussed issues related to leader- featuring a talk by Dr. John Dornan on the director of the Genesis Fertility Centre in ship training and the need to consider new Canadian Diabetes Guidelines. I par- Vancouver. Our attendance was excellent taking part in committees and other orga- ticularly enjoyed the cases we were able with over 20 women doctors and up to 40 nizational events from the early days in to discuss after the talk. We also met at people that included other invited health medicine. This helps women physicians Shadow Lawn last September when Dr. care professionals such as the Planned gain experience and credibility and self Ward Yuzda gave an excellent presenta- Parenthood nurses, midwives and phar- confi dence. We emphasized that women tion on antipsychotics. macists. physicians need to ensure that the inter- ests of our patients and those of women In March, we met and welcomed one Dr. Shelley Ross: the Vancouver physicians are represented in both medi- of our new Paediatricians, Dr. Adenike branch had a meeting in March on the cal organizations and at the political level Aladetoyinbo. She’ll be presenting topic of taking care of the physician, giv- as well. Our next plans include a summer the NACI Guidelines on Immunization en by Dr. Janice Wright. The branch wel- barbecue - that is if winter ever ends up and reviewing the burden of disease of comed Dr. Teresa Clarke, new President here - lots of snow still on the ground! Rotavirus. of the Vancouver Branch as well as Ms. Pamela Verma, FMWC’s UBC student Dr. Mamta Gautam: the Ottawa Planning is under way for a get to- representative. branch members of the FMWC have had gether at my place on April 23 (hopefully a great year to date. We have enjoyed a the snow will be gone from the driveway Dr. Marjon Blouw: the Victoria good mix of CME events, interesting by then!) That means it will be allergy branch had a wonderful gathering for topics, and most importantly, regular season in New Brunswick so I’ll be talk- appetizers and laughs last October at the networking and meeting with friends. ing about allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Faculty Club at the University of Victoria CME evenings last September and in We’re inviting a wonderful caterer from where old and new members could meet February brought us all up to date on Fredericton to tempt us with some spring each other as well as an impressive num- Pain Management, and Extended Cycle goodies. That’s all from Saint John for ber of new female medical staff and Contraception. The other evenings were now as I hand over the reins to Kerry.

Page 5 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Past President’s Message

The Top 10 Skills I Need to Save the World: Leading Effective Change with Grace By Past President and Website Editor: Dr. Janet Dollin

Leadership and derstand the infl uence that gender roles around you. “I need to understand my Advocacy Online still have. The skill is “I need to know it Hospital or Association politics and how needs saving”. change happens”. Toolkit at: www.fmwc.ca Skill #2 began with the overwhelm- Skill #8 began with the thought that ing thought that “I didn’t know where to “Government politics are too messy”. If start”. Each individual has to know their you are prepared for messy you can be The Top 10 Skills own strengths and weaknesses, has to fi nd a leader, or you can infl uence a leader to I Need to Save the the “fi re in their belly”. The skill to learn make change in the direction you feel it World is a fun, comprehensive resource is “I have to fi gure out where to start”. is needed. There are many examples of for medical women, looking at how to advocacy tools that help your leaders to strengthen our ability to lead change for Skill # 3 began with the recurring con- make change. Learn to use these to under- our careers in medicine and for the areas cern that “I had no time”. Of course time is stand how change happens in politics, and of our work where we witness that change fi nite and time management skills cannot learn to build more. “I need to understand is needed. The reasons that we have not actually create more of it. The skill, then, Government politics”. yet “saved the world” (for women in is to choose how to spend it most wisely. medicine and for women’s health), have Skill 3 is “I need time”. Skill #9 began with the overwhelmed been the Federation of Medical Women thought that “I wanted to but was too busy of Canada’s overarching discussion theme Skill #4 began with the belief that “I carpooling/caregiving”. It is a fact of life over the last few years. We are sincerely didn’t think I could do that or that wom- that caregiving is a vital, life affi rming grateful to all of our contributors, for the en doctors should do that”. This self-talk responsibility that affects the careers of presentations, workshops and conversa- limits the scope of work that we do to the women physicians. The skill to develop tions that contributed to this resource. We immediate problem before us. We stop involves recognizing the need for fl exible have collated this wisdom and compiled it seeing that the personal issues that we family friendly work. The change that will into this online advocacy toolkit. Created navigate around are actually big picture be needed are workplaces that support by women physicians, it is intended for issues that affect us all. We stop seeing this. This skill is “I need to feel guilt free use by all physicians, as a tool to help us ourselves as potential agents of change. about parenting or caregiving”. build important leadership skills. The skill to build is “I need to believe that women doctors can/should do that: if not Skill #10 began with the thought that Each of the 10 specifi c skills presented me then who?” “I tried that when I was young and now I in this online resource developed from a have no more energy”. The skills involved discussion that began with the 10 major Skill #5 began with the thought “I plan in building resilience are learnable skills. barriers that FMWC women physicians to, but I will get to it later”. We can be- “I need to maintain my energy throughout have faced in building their careers. These come expert at overwhelming ourselves a long and productive career”. barriers are rooted in our thoughts and with work and busyness. The skill to hone beliefs about ourselves and in our under- then, is “I need to plan to do it now and not Feedback and future contributions: standing of the systems around us. This put it off for later: if not now then when?” FMWC invites you to respond to this on- online resource can be used at your own line resource. Please communicate with pace either in whole or in part. It’s up to Skill #6 began as the belief that “I tried us if you have feedback, suggestions for you. Use the links within the toolkit, the but nobody would listen to me”. future development or would like to con- booklist at the end, or just the Workbook tribute material or links to this Advocacy alone for either personal or group work. This might be the truth, but it is a cor- Toolkit. Feel free to use the discussion Does your world need changing? Here are rectable truth with the appropriate skills. forum on our homepage or to email us di- the skills you will need: We may not know how to speak, we may rectly. not have effective social capital and we Skill #1 began with the thought that “I may not be heard because we have hit Acknowledgements: The following in- didn’t know it needed saving”. This re- upon confl ict we don’t know how to re- dividuals have contributed by presenting fers to not being aware that gender has solve. The task then is “I need the skills papers at our workshops and allowing us been a determinant of women’s careers in to make people listen to me”. to include their work within this online re- medicine and although the landscape has source. It is with sincere gratitude to all changed signifi cantly over the years, it Skill #7 began with the belief that of these individuals that we present this still remains a barrier to specialty choice, “Hospital /Association politics are too resource. It is also with sincere gratitude to advancement, and to climate. The chal- messy”. This belief stems from not un- that we include those who contributed to lenge is to learn from the past and to un- derstanding the game. To strengthen this skill you must know how change happens (Continued on page 7)

Page 6 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Past President’s Message

Top Ten Skills from page 6

the call for papers on “Customizing Balance”, some of whose stories appear as links within Skill #4. We also want to thank the Canadian Medical Association’s Offi ce for Leadership and Professional Development for their continued support of this project. The FMWC hopes that you will use this online toolkit to build these skills for yourself and that you will use them with wisdom and grace. You are free to use or share this material as long as authorship is appropri- ately attributed. Contributors to FMWC’s 2007 & 2008 AGMs and the online Toolkit: May Cohen MD, CCFP, FCFP; Marla Shapiro MD, FRCPS, CCFP; Elizabeth May, LLB; Jan Christilaw MD, FRCPS; Mamta Gautam, MD, FRCPS; Shari Graydon, Susan Philips, MD, CCFP, FCFP; Carolyn Bennett, MD, MP; Ruth Collins-Nakai, MD, FRCP(C); Wendy Graham, MD, CCFP, FCFP; Ruth Wilson, MD, CCFP, FCFP; Janice Willett, MD, CCFP, FCFP; Gail Beck, MD, FRCPS; Nedra Lander, PhD; Danielle Nahon, PhD; Lauren Chad, Cathy Younger-Lewis MD, CCFP; Pat Clark, Lucie Boileau, Shayna Watson MD, CCFP; Nahid Azad MD, FRCPC; Rose Goldstein MD, FRCPS and Prof. Ellen Zweibel. Gratitude to the AAMC, the GIC COFM Collaborative Curriculum, the WONCA Working Party on Women in Family Medicine and the UK Medical Women’s Federation for the groundwork already done.

International Women’s Day ~Facts Submitted by: Dr. Nedra Lander • 70% of the 1.2 billion living in poverty across the world are women • Women earn just 10% of the world’s income • Only 1% of the world’s property is owned by women • For comparable work, on average, women are still paid about 30-40% less than men • Women make up less than 5% of the world’s heads of state

Reference: UN statistics and http://www.comminit.com/

Page 7 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 AGM

Annual General Meeting, Leadership & Advocacy Workshops September 26-27, 2009 — InterContinental Hotel, Montréal, Québec Beyond Balance: Achieving Professional and Personal Harmony

Objectives - To provide strategies and tools for female physicians to achieve harmony between their professional and personal lives. - To illustrate ways to resolve confl ict effectively and to negotiate more respectful and fl exible workplaces. - To facilitate networking between physicians and in particular to foster mentoring and sharing of best practices between physicians and medical students.

Organizing Committee: Chair/President-Elect: Dr. Andrea Canty, Dr. Kathleen Gartke, Dr. Janet Dollin, Dr. Susan Wilkinson, Dr. Patricia Mousmanis, Dr. Yolande Leduc, Ms. Rachel Ptashny and Ms. Susan Dallin O’Grady.

Program

Saturday, September, 26, 2009 Sunday, September 27, 2009 7:30-8:30 Breakfast Workshop: 7:30-8:30 Breakfast Workshop on Palliative Care: What Dr. Alex Ferenczy ~ HPV Vaccines: is there to support you as a physician and as a Perspectives and Future Direction caregiver 8:30-9:30 Dr. Bo Miedema ~ Doc abuse: what’s the story? 8:30-9:15 Dr. Nahid Azad ~ Boundaries, Harassment and Intimidation 9:30-10:00 Break* 9:15-10:00 Dr. Yolande Leduc ~ The Feminization of 10:00-11:45 AGM Medicine 11:45-1:15 Awards Luncheon: featuring Honorary member Dr. 10:00-10:30 Break – Luna Yoga! Jane Philpott and the May Cohen Award recipient, Dr. Charmaine Roye 10:30-11:30 Panel discussion ~ mentoring new physicians to achieve balance 1:15-2:30 Janice Stein (PhD) ~ Confl ict and Negotiation skills: A Gender Perspective 11:30-12:30 Lunch Workshop on Workplace Flexibility: Dr. Janet Dollin ~ Customizing balance in the 2:30-3:00 Break* medical workplace – what is it we are looking for and what do our stories tell us we are 3:00-4:15 Janice Stein (PhD) ~ Confl ict and Negotiation getting? cont… Dr. Kathleen Gartke ~ Work-Life Policies for 6:00pm Saturday Soirée in Old Montréal: Pointe-à- Faculty at Canada’s Medical Schools Callière (Montréal Museum of Archaeology and History) ~ exclusive conference event. Experience *All breaks will include a fun indulgence! a private tour, multimedia show and a 3-course dinner in a historic setting. Remarkable - not to be missed! See photo of the venue on our front cover!

Page 8 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 AGM

REGISTRATION - EARLY BIRD INCENTIVES! - Book before June 30, 2009 and you will receive a free book: your choice of “The Indomitable Lady Doctors” or “Honour Due: The Story of Dr. Leonora Howard King” (value: $20). Reserve your Hotel now! - In addition, you will have your name go into a draw to win the InterContinental Hotel, Old Port (see photo of this conference’s “Harmony prize package”: includes an upgrade to 5-star hotel on left page): a Club level room/access to the executive lounge (value: $50) and - Web: http://montreal.intercontinental.com a 1 month GoodLife fi tness pass and eco-tote (value $99). - Call: 1-800-361-3600 - All registrants will receive a 3-day pass to any GoodLife fi tness - Booking #: Block S42 club (value of $45). - Rates: $205 Standard room (King or 2 doubles) $255 Club We encourage you to Register Online at: www.fmwc.ca $355 Junior Suite - You can pay online with a credit card or register online and then mail in a cheque - OR Mail the below form to: 780 Echo Dr. Ottawa K1S 5R7 The FMWC would like to thank its - OR Fax to: 1-877-772-5777 / local: (613) 569-4432 Sponsors for their support and unrestricted educational grants: First Name: ______Gold: Last Name: ______Address: ______City: ______Province: ______Country: ______Postal Code: ______Silver: Tel (Offi ce): ______Tel (Home): ______Fax:______E-mail: ______Special requirements including dietary: ______

Bronze: ______Registration Categories: € $175 Full Member/Associate € $135 Full Member/Associate attending the MWIA Cruise € $125 Retired or 1st/2nd Year in Practice or Honorary Senior/ Life member € $50 Resident/Student

€ $100 Saturday Soirée x _____Ticket(s) = $______€ Student sponsorship (optional) $______Registration fee $______Friends: Saturday Soirée $______Student Sponsorship $______

TOTAL: $______Method of Payment: € Cheque (Payable to “FMWC”) € Visa/Master Card

Card Number:______Expiry date:____/____ Signature: ______

Page 9 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Student News

FMWC Medical Student News

In Vancouver: UBC medical students In Halifax: The celebrated International Women’s Day by FMWC student group at distributing fresh fl owers with insightful Dalhousie University will quotes from prominent women attached. be hosting a “Women in Students and members of the community Medicine” night on May alike enjoyed the fl oral treats and found 21, from 7-9 pm. Join the promotion to be most enlightening. us in the Tupper lounge Said one lucky recipient, “Thank you for for a panel discussion on totally making my day! It is so great to life as a woman in the see this happening”. The FMWC-UBC medical fi eld. Prominent chapter kindly acknowledges Matthias female physicians from Berg, Tonia Timperley Berg and Pamela the community will Verma for their efforts as well as Ms. Jean be available to answer Gettle of Smile and Shine Flowers in Port questions about how Moody, B.C. for the very generous dona- they have handled the UBC reps Ms. Verma and Mr. Malbranche tion. challenges of having children, balancing a In Ottawa: in February, the University family and a personal life while practicing The FMWC National Student of Ottawa student group hosted a ses- medicine. Refreshments will be served. Representative, Rachel Ptashny would sion called “Professional Women & Our We hope to see you there! For more in- like to remind all FMWC student repre- Personal Lives”. A certifi ed matchmaker formation contact Jillian MacDonald (jil- sentatives to join the FMWC Facebook came in and gave a presentation on how to [email protected]) or Elaine Davies group so that they can speak with one an- fi nd and keep relationships. ([email protected]) other and get ideas for events.

Where are the women in medicine? By FMWC medical student: Elissa Cohen

As a fi rst year medical student at the mentee. It is important to recognize that your mentee to observe you in clinic to University of Ottawa we are encouraged mentorship reaches beyond the realm of meeting up for a coffee to discuss an to do electives and gain practical experi- physical examination skills development. interesting case. ence early on in our medical education. I Many students are curious about how have done quite a few electives in an ef- female physicians manage to maintain Tips for students: fort to fi nd a mentor. A majority of my a balance between practice, family, and a) Ask those burning questions because professors and preceptors have been male. other aspects of their lives. It is my hope chances are, your mentor would be more Twenty percent of my electives have been that in the development of a mentorship than happy to provide you with an answer with female physicians. The electives program it will be possible to link female or at least point you in the right direction ranged from family medicine to orthope- physicians who are willing and able to to fi nd an answer. b) Remember that phy- dic surgery. I have one major question at work with keen female students. In the sicians are busy people…so be patient. present, where are all the women in medi- meantime, before this program is up and c) Get involved with the Federation of cine? I consulted my peers to validate my running, here are a few tips for physicians Medical Women because there are quite a impression that there is a lack of female and students wishing to develop a mentor- few members who are willing and able to mentors. They confi rmed my observation. mentee relationship on their own: facilitate your learning and development In light of this common fi nding, I feel that through mentorship. it is time to address this seeming dearth Tips for mentors: of female mentors because the timely re- a) Sending an email to your mentee can Take Home Message: search identifi es the positive impact that often be a quick and easy way to stay If you are a female physician who is mentorship can have on female students. in touch and for those of us who are not interested in being a mentor and thus particularly tech- savvy the telephone is facilitating the professional and personal Most students will not come out and another great way to make meaningful development of a female medical student, say “hey, can you be my mentor?” it most contact. b) Meeting on a regular basis extend a hand because there are many often begins with the statement “can I with your mentee, be that four times a female students who are in need of you shadow you in clinic?” or “do you take year or more, can facilitate communica- and your insight. Stay tuned for news on students on for electives?” This is the tion. Activities to facilitate your mentor- the pending mentorship program. perfect opportunity to take on a potential ship relationship can range from inviting

Page 10 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 MWIA News

Medical Women’s International Association News By MWIA Secretary-General: Dr. Shelley Ross

MWIA Cruise: Please remember to make panel on March 5th that discussed Gender your reservation for the North American Equality and Male Responsibility and the Regional Meeting onboard the Holland Women Doctors of the World. America’s Maasdam, sailing from Boston to Montreal through the Maritimes. The The MWIA was asked to write a blog topic is Caring for the Caregiver and Dr. for International Women’s Day for Reuters Mamta Gautam is the keynote speaker. UK. The link is: http://blogs.reuters.com/ The cruise is lining up to have a number great-debate-uk/2009/03/03/confronting- of attendees not only from Canada and the medical-issues-for-women/ USA, but internationally as well. Please The MWIA partnered with Osteoporosis register and show a good Canadian pres- Canada to conduct a survey of women ence. The cruise must be booked through with osteoporosis and doctors that treat SeaCourses at: www.seacourses.com. women with osteoporosis to see how these teoporosis and encourage women to speak Dr. Shirley Hovan, Vice President for women see themselves in comparison to with their doctors. Dr. Shelley Ross and North America, and Dr. Shelley Ross, how doctors see them. The result was that Dr. Yolande Leduc participated in media Secretary-General for MWIA, participated women see themselves as active, indepen- launches about the survey, known as The in the 53rd session on the Commission on dent and full of life while the doctors see Timeless Women in March in Toronto and the Status of Women at the United Nations them as frail and fragile and inactive. The Montreal respectively. The website is: in New York in March. They served on a survey was done to raise awareness of os- www.fortimelesswomen.com

Page 11 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 International Interest

The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital Project in Ghana By FMWC Branch President: Dr. Setorme Tsikata

This is a brief follow-up piece on the article: “Urgent Need for The group in collaboration with “Not just Tourists”, an NGO that medical supplies and equipment for Ghana” in the fall newsletter. sends medical supplies to developing countries with benevolent tour- ists in suitcases, delivered the fi rst consignment of medical supplies Friends of Korle-bu Hospital is made up of mainly Canadian wom- through the Canadian High Commission in Accra. Please follow the en very passionate about improving maternal and child health care link below to read the newspaper excerpt on the donation made in services at the Maternity Block of the Korle-bu Teaching Hospital November 2008: http://www.modernghana.com/newsp/189811/1/ in Accra, Ghana. This group came about through informal delibera- pageNum1/canadians-assist-korle-bu.html tions between Canadian women, physicians and non-physicians who have in one way or another, experienced effects of the overwhelming Since the need is so great, Friends of Korle-bu is working with burden of high perinatal morbidity and mortality. These rates arise Canadian Food for the Hungry International (CFHI) through its out of the lack of medical supplies and poor infrastructure to deliver International Medical Equipment Distribution program (IMED) to appropriate obstetric care at the Korle-bu maternity block. deliver a container full of the much needed medical supplies. IMED refurbishes used medical equipment and sends them to developing From 100,000 women, 750 die during child birth in Ghana, com- countries. The link to the CFHI and IMED website is: http://www. pared with seven in Canada. The numbers are outstanding and this cfhi.ca/What-We-Do/Medical-IMED is the reason why Friends of Korle-bu Hospital has embarked on a fundraising drive to send much needed medical supplies and equip- The estimated cost of the container (including shipping charges ment to Korle-bu. plus a procurement donation of $5000 for a 40’ container destined for Ghana), was approximately $15,000 CAD. Out of a potential capacity of 3 operating rooms (OR), there is currently only one functioning OR, making it impossible to render So far, we have been fortunate to have raised the money needed care when there are usually 6 or more women waiting for emergency to send a container full of much needed supplies and this is through c-sections at any point in time. Basic medical supplies such as dis- the contribution of several phenomenal people and groups whom I’d posable gloves, gauzes, sutures, etc. are in critical shortage. Women like to acknowledge. Special thanks go to Ms. Shirley Greenberg having seizures from eclampsia and other pregnancy related compli- who responded immediately without hesitation to cover the bulk cations have no beds to lie on and sleep on either thin mattresses or on the bare fl oor. (Continued on page 13)

Canadian Physicians “Care to Care” By FMWC member: Dr. Dale Dewar

In Northern Iraq, 70% of deliveries occur at home with untrained birth attendants and the remainder occur in hospitals or birthing centres where the Caesarean section rate is 50% and the episiotomy rate is 100%. Women say that they don’t want to go to the hospitals because they “get cut”. Obstetrical care is the burden of women physicians, with less training, facili- ties and simple technologies and less opportunity to travel for education. Maternal morbidity Dr. Jaelene Mannerfeldt and mortality are high. We have developed the quintessential partnership project – the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada and Canadian Friends Service Committee (Quakers) with the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada and the Kurdistan Regional Government. We have successfully completed one training session and have plans for four more. Each session trains up to 40 physicians and nurses in up-to-date skills for early recognition of obstetrical emergencies and interventions. In turn, some of these physicians and nurses will be trained to teach alongside the Canadian instructors in a “train the trainers” project. Dr. Dale Dewar

The course leader from October 2008 to the April 2009 trip is Dr. Jaelene Mannerfeldt, an This is a partnership project fund- obstetrician ( and FMWC member) from Okotoks, Alberta. She has experience both in moni- ed in matching grants by the Canadian toring the development of ALARM (Advances in Labour and Risk Management) and in in- International Development Agency and structing nationally and internationally. Jaelene’s expertise underlies a passion for women’s by donors. Canadian Friends Service health and women’s rights. The facilitator is Dr. Dale Dewar from Wynyard, Saskatchewan Committee is pleased to issue tax receipts who with Dr. Narmin Ibrahim of Saskatoon has developed the project itself. Two other in- for cheques sent to: 60 Lowther Ave, structors in October were nurse Christine Nadori from Ottawa and Dr. Ahmed Ezzat from Toronto, ON M5R 1C7 or on line at: www. Saskatoon. cfsc.quaker.ca.

Page 12 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 International Interest

Honorary Member 2009 – Dr. Jane Philpott By: Julie Weiss

It was Martin Luther King Jr. who said: raised so far for the two recommended re- Kenya as a medi- “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice ev- cipients - the Stephen Lewis Foundation and cal student. After erywhere.” Dr. Jane Philpott likes to para- Dignitas International. studying medicine phrase King by noting that “Ill health any- at the University of where is a threat to wellness everywhere.” Dr. Philpott notes that “AIDS cannot be Western Ontario, Dr. Philpott’s determination to address glob- defeated by individuals - not by individual she completed a al health inequity led to the birth of “Give a nations, or individual continents. The suf- Family Medicine Residency at the University Day to World AIDS”. fering and the solutions must be shared. of Ottawa and a Tropical Medicine This crisis is a call to global collective ef- Fellowship in Toronto. From 1989 to 1998, The Give a Day movement started in 2004 fi cacy - the power of working together to Dr Philpott and her family lived and worked when Dr. Philpott spoke at a medical staff bring an end to AIDS.” Give a Day is a stir- in Niger Republic, West Africa. There she dinner at Markham Stouffville Hospital on ring Canadian expression of solidarity in practiced general medicine and developed a the subject of AIDS in Africa. In an effort this global challenge. community health training program for vil- to move from information to action, she pro- lage health workers. posed a challenge. She suggested that her In 2008 there were Give a Day campaigns colleagues calculate their billings for one day in at least 14 hospitals, 16 law fi rms, and Dr. Philpott is a family physician in - December 1, World AIDS Day - and donate many workplaces, faith-based communities Stouffville, Ontario and has a special interest that amount to a Canadian organization that and schools. Also in 2008, Give a Day en- in HIV primary care. She is currently Interim works effectively in the fi ght against AIDS. joyed the participation of 13 medical schools Chief of Family Medicine at Markham The doctors responded enthusiastically, across Canada. Dr. Philpott dreams that the Stouffville Hospital. She is leading the raising more than $33,000 that year. Word Give a Day movement will someday be a development of a new teaching site for the quickly spread in the medical community national, if not a global phenomenon. She University of Toronto Department of Family and by 2005 eight more hospitals in nearby notes: “The movement has two critical con- and Community Medicine. The Family communities were involved in Give a Day. sequences. Through the excellent recipient Medicine residency in Markham will begin Each workplace had a different approach. organizations it provides critical relief im- in July 2010 and will have a longitudinal fo- Some had meetings or social events; others mediately for those affected by HIV. But it cus on global health. Dr. Philpott is also on put up posters in their hospitals and some is also an expression of global solidarity; re- the planning committee of the Toronto Addis wrote letters to colleagues challenging them viving the moral imagination of this genera- Ababa Academic Collaboration (TAAAC) to give a day’s pay on World AIDS Day. tion that we might dare to anticipate a world to assist with building Family Medicine resi- without AIDS.” dency training in Ethiopia. In the spring of 2006, a group of lawyers decided to bring the Give a Day movement Innovative plans are already underway for “It was a great surprise and an honour”, to the legal community. Three Toronto- Give a Day 2009. Dr. Philpott hopes that said Dr. Philpott of the news that she was se- based law fi rms provided sponsorship so many more physicians will be ready to chal- lected as an honorary member of the FMWC. that information could be printed and dis- lenge their colleagues and communities to “In each of these efforts, I’m only one mem- tributed. This support meant the volunteer- respond to the AIDS pandemic in this simple ber of a diligent team” she said. But she driven campaign spread from coast to coast. but powerful way. hopes that this recognition will hearten all The number of Canadians participating in medical women dedicated to the pursuit of the Give a Day movement continues to grow Dr. Philpott’s passion for matters of global global health equity. each year. About $2 million dollars has been health began in 1983 when she worked in

The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital Project from page 12 of shipment costs. A big thank you to Ms. Heather Johnston, I also extend thanks to Dr. M. J. Duncan who graciously vol- wife of the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana and Ms. unteered at the Burn Unit in Korle-bu last summer doing plastic Maureen McTeer who did a great job of coordinating and spear- surgeries and Not Just Tourists for delivering the fi rst consignment heading the project from Ghana and Canada, respectively. I also of medical supplies. acknowledge the contributions made by Judy Johnston, Lindsay Brucks, Edith Conacher and Dr. Kwawukume in coordinating Hopefully by the end of this spring 2009, we expect the ship- the logistics for the shipment. ment to be on the way to Ghana and I will keep you posted on how these items impact obstetric services and outcomes in Ghana, Members and leadership of the Ottawa Assembly of the especially at Korle-bu. Church of Pentecost have been extremely supportive of the project in diverse ways, especially through fi nancial contribu- Contributions are always welcome to fund other aspects of the tions. Additional thanks go to Rev. Obeng Gyamfi , Mr. Kwame project such as repairing leaking roofs, removal of mould, etc. Amponsah and the Alpha Ladies Club who donated their time Please contact Dr. Tsikata at [email protected] if you are inter- and effort in support of the project. ested in contributing to this project.

Page 13 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 International Interest

Real Partnership with Our Sisters in the South By FMWC member: Dr. Maureen Law

International Women’s a desire to protect their Day is a time not only to culture and tradition. think about the needs of women but also to cel- Because local wom- ebrate the strengths and en understand the achievements of women many factors that af- everywhere. In the course fect their quality of life, of my work I have met they might not choose so many amazing wom- a health program as en from the Southern high priority. Their Hemisphere - women greatest concerns may who are hard-working, be hunger, poverty, courageous, persistent, literacy, security, etc. and creative. They are But if these issues are good managers of time addressed there may and money and are entre- well be an important preneurial. How can we benefi t for health and in the North partner with increased demand for these strong women in health services. the South? I am not suggest- What do I mean by ing that we should not “partnering”? Many or- bring to women ev- Dr. Maureen Law with Chinese partner. ganizations use the term erywhere the results “partners” interchange- of research and expe- ably with “groups we fund” without con- is required - and whether growing crops or rience about what works in addressing the sidering the underlying power structure fi shing or some other income –generating health issues of women. It does mean that governing the relationship. I believe that activity would best suit her circumstances. we need to listen to the women who know central to the idea of partnership is the pre- the community best and tailor our standard sumption of equality. Partners choose to I think that if we want to be real partners packages of interventions to their needs, work together to achieve a common goal. for women in the south, we need to recog- priorities and approaches. They may not agree on everything, but nize that the usual vision of development they must value what each has to offer. often focuses on measures such as Gross How can we be better partners? Let me National Product but ignores the priorities fi nish with a few suggestions about how we Unfortunately, donors often fail to rec- of women - such as access to education and can be better partners. I would start with ognize that economically disadvantaged health care. Moreover, economists usu- the fundamental principle that we must people can be equals. Their opinions may ally focus only on wage employment. Self- listen to women’s voices. First - at grass- not be sought or may be ignored. Women employment is not a focus. This especially roots level we need to strengthen and sup- in the South are so often portrayed as uni- tends to exclude women. All of us who have port women’s groups and networks so that formly poor, uniformly passive, uniformly travelled in rural areas , especially in Asia, women can make their voices better heard. rural, and uniformly illiterate – victims of have seen the creativity and energy that Second - at program level, donors must de- retrograde traditions, hopelessly exploited many poor women exhibit as they manage velop and maintain relationships with the and oppressed. their scarce household resources and line women they seek to serve. Universities the roadsides with their goods for sale. need to ensure training in these qualitative Recently I was at a gathering where a and participatory approaches. Third - we speaker mentioned the old adage about It is not only our frequent failure to recog- should demand that donors respond to the “give a man a fi sh or teach a man to fi sh nize this kind of creativity in our Southern priorities women voice, not just imple- etc.” He had modifi ed it to “give a woman partners that is a problem: another common ment blueprint approaches. And fi nally, as food or teach a woman to grow crops…”. failure is that we tend to forget that there individuals, we can seek out and support are vast cultural and existential differences donors who demonstrate this approach in But I began wondering how often we re- in the South. One approach to development their work. ally need to teach people to fi sh or grow defi nitely does not fi t all, and women need crops and how often they simply need as- to be consulted about their particular needs I think that we should be real partners of sistance to acquire the tools to fi sh or grow and preferences. If we support women in our sisters in the South by celebrating their crops. overcoming the sense of powerlessness that many contributions, by recognizing their many of these women face, we will soon potential to do even more, and by doing Real partnership would involve recogniz- realize that they are trying to balance a de- what we can to ensure that they do not die ing that the woman likely knows best what sire for equality, power and freedom with with their gifts unexplored.

Page 14 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Creative Corner

My Mind Goes Blank

I can’t tell you what it’s like. I sit. It’s hard.” “a devoted mother would I’m sitting here… My mind goes blank. “Oh. We’re going for a bite do both. My mind goes blank. Then, the reality smashes in. to eat. The nurse’s scorn is not Pieces go fl itting through, I’m in a room with other Can we bring you fair.” odd things - why do I people. anything?” He’s pleased with my fi nd. remember A woman comes in - I know “No thanks. I’m fi ne” I watch the nurse take his them now? her. - this is only partly true. vitals. It will be a while Another hockey mom. I’m sitting here - alone, “It’s an unusual reaction. …until the doctor comes. “Is your son having his tonsils out in a room full of people. We think it’s the dye.” Does everyone feel this way? too?” The tears well up. “What’s the name of the They must. “No” I can’t begin to tell. dye again?” I can’t begin to really tell her. “Here. I’ll write it down But I remember being much I squelch back the tears * * * for you.” more frantic …listen politely to her stories. They’ve called for me She writes it in capital …last time. Can she see on my face - he’s awake. letters Am I desensitized? I don’t think the distress I’m feeling? “Did you get them?” …like I can’t read so. I guess not. I’m confused. anything complicated. My mind goes blank. I can’t begin to tell you. “Do they have them? - the It’s better than the alternative But then, Pokemon cards.” * * * “Is it harder for you to bring The nurse doesn’t understand. “MOM - read! Why are * * * your son for medical care Oh - I forgot to go you writing that?” Oh my god; he’s telling me I because you’re a doctor?” to the gift shop for the I read to him have to think of the alternative. “No” I said - to simplify the cards. …it fi lls the mind. He pauses, responds to my matter. I explain to the nurse questions. “He’s not doing so well right “I’ll be right back.” By Lana Dyment, June 8, 1999, It’s not a long interaction. now. I can tell she’s appalled I’m Theo’s fourth heart We didn’t say much. It’s his heart. leaving his bedside. catheterization. The silence said everything. Any parent would feel the As I walk down the hall I Then, he’s gone. same. think

Awards Update: 2009 May Cohen Award Winner, Dr. Charmaine Roye ! By Awards Committee Chair: Dr. Karen Breeck

The May Cohen Award was started over Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada her mentoring has pro- 10 years ago and has become the most pres- (SOGC) committees. Highlights include be- vided so many female tigious of all the Federation’s awards. This ing past FMWC President, Vice President physicians - not only year’s recipient has dedicated her life’s work North America Region MWIA, Chair of within the Federation to supporting women’s health as an active OMA’s Women’s Issues Committee, Chair but in every aspect of obstetrician/gynecologist for over 20 years. of CMA’s Committee of National Medical her work and interests ! To quote Dr. Roye’s Dr. Roye is also an avid athlete, excelling in Organizations, and Chair of SOGC Women’s nominator, Dr. Younger-Lewis, Charmaine is tennis and golf. However, the attribute that Health Policy Committee. an “exceptional physician, leader and mentor, made her stand out above and beyond the rest at local, provincial and national levels. Her was her activities in mentoring female physi- The common thread through all these ac- dedication to supporting women’s health and cians. tivities and achievements is Charmaine’s in- encouraging women physicians to take on nate ability and interest to teach and mentor leadership roles is unwavering”. A born physician leader, Charmaine was other female physicians. Be it medical stu- the 2007 Recipient of Excellence in Medical dents, gyne residents, physician peers, fel- Call for nominations for the Enid Leadership Award winner from the Canadian low athletes, committee or board members Johnson MacLeod Award: this award is Society of Physician Executives. She is – Charmaine always not only makes herself established to recognize outstanding work in presently the Chief of Medical Staff at the available but goes the extra step to ensure the promotion of women’s health research or Brantford General Hospital and has sat on/ that her knowledge is made available to women’s health education. Nominations are chaired numerous FMWC, Medical Women’s those interested to learn from her extensive open to physicians and non-physicians until International Association (MWIA), Ontario experiences. A living model of “paying it June 30, 2009. For more information please Medical Association (OMA), Canadian forward”, the Federation is honoured to rec- go to the awards section of the FWMC web- Medical Association (CMA) and Society of ognize Charmaine for the positive infl uence site: www.fmwc.ca . Apply now!

Page 15 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Awards, Accolades & Announcements

Congratulations to these FMWC members for their accomplishments

Dr. Karen Breeck (Ottawa, Awards than specialists - results in increased lon- Announcements: Chair) is retiring from her position as a gevity of the population as it affects qual- A big thank you to Ottawa members: Dr. Flight Surgeon, this spring after 20 years ity of care. Well done! Barbara Joe, Dr. Maureen Law, Dr. Janet of loyal and dedicated service to the Dollin and Dr. Susan Kelen who volun- Canadian Forces. Good luck on your new Recognized in the “Women in the teered at the national offi ce to reduce and adventures! Lead” 2008 book are Dr. Karen Breeck and Honorary member, Dr. Ruth Collins- re-organize our storage and archives. Dr. Janet Dollin (Ottawa, Past President) Nakai. See this link for more information: Submitted by Dr. Frances Forrest- has been honoured with the Award of www.womeninthelead.ca Richards (Victoria): Canada Post issued Excellence in advancing gender and eq- two stamps to honour Black History uity by the Faculty of Medicine, Offi ce of Dr. Marla Shapiro (Toronto) has Month (February). One is of Abraham Equity, Diversity and Gender, University won the Award of Excellence from The Doras Shadd (1801 - 1882) who played of Ottawa. College of Family Physicians of Canada has been appointed to 3 new Board po- a major role in the Underground Railroad Dr. Maureen Law (Ottawa) recently re- sitions: The Board of Research Canada, and was the fi rst black person to hold ceived the Lifetime Achievement Award the Board of Baycrest, and as a Director political offi ce in Canada. The other is of the Canadian Society for International and Board Member of SIGMA Canadian of Rosemary Brown (1930-2003) who Health. See Dr. Law’s article and photo in Menopause Society. Dr. Shapiro would was the fi rst black woman to be selected the “International Interest” section. like ask all FMWC members to con- as a member of a Provincial Legislative sider joining SIGMA (Special Interest Assembly (M.L.A. in B.C.) and the fi rst Congratulations to Dr. Susan Phillips Group on Menopause and Aging) which woman to run for the leadership of a (Kingston) for her publication in JAMA, has been recognized by the International Canadian political party. Rosemary Brown February 25, 2009; on the issue of the Menopause Society. Please visit their web was named an Honorary Member of the feminization of medicine and population page: www.sigmamenopause.com. This Federation of Medical Women of Canada. health. She argues that a more robust pri- is a multidisciplinary group that is inter- The unveiling of the two stamps took mary medical care system results in lower ested in advancing the health of women place in Vancouver, this past February at morbidity and mortality. The physician‘s at and beyond the menopausal transition. the Vancouver Playhouse. gender density - higher female generalists

The Canadian Society of Physician Executives (CSPE) Medical Leadership Award given to Dr Karen Breeck FMWC Member — By: Dr. Patricia Warshawski

The CSPE Medical Leadership Award She revamped most of our documenta- key professionals and was able to negoti- recognizes Karen Breeck’s leadership tion forms and initiated several outreach ate an historic memorandum of agreement skills and her signifi cant contribution to projects. Karen reinforced the concept of between the FMWC and the Canadian the FMWC during her tenure as President honouring our members and ensured that Medical Association (CMA) that has re- (August 2005 to 2006) and her ongoing our website was revamped in order to be- sulted in a formal collaboration between involvement as an Executive member. come a useful source of current informa- these two organizations. Karen initiated tion regarding funding opportunities and discussions on another separate agree- Dr. Karen Breeck has an impressive awards for our members. Karen Breeck ment with the Society of Obstetricians Curriculum Vitae that shows her ex- dedicated herself to building the student and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) tensive training in surgery, aerospace wing of the FMWC by lecturing at student that allowed the FMWC to partner with medicine and women’s studies. She has leadership workshops and inspired many this group to further women’s health care worked in general practice and has ob- of our medical students and residents to in Canada. Karen Breeck is a transfor- tained a Masters in Health Science. Dr. pursue leadership opportunities over the mational leader who brought her unique Karen Breeck‘s extensive experience in past four years. In fact, it was our students skills, talents and perspectives to her the military brought a unique perspective that recommended Karen be nominated work as a medical leader. The Awards to her presidential year and formalized for the CSPE Leadership Award. Committee of the FMWC honours her and many key practices within the FMWC in- congratulates her on her CSPE Medical cluding fi nalizing our new bylaws. Karen Most importantly, Karen Breeck show- Leadership Award. initiated several innovative new strategies cased her abilities to network with other to streamline our policies and procedures.

Page 16 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Maude Abbott Funds

Maude Abbott Loan Fund THANK YOU Application Form – TO OUR a benefi t for FMWC students! DONORS! The Maude Abbott Loan Fund (MALF) was established to commemorate the outstand- ing contribution made to medicine in Canada by Dr. Maude Abbott, a founding member Your generosity to the Maude of the FMWC. Every year, 3 loans of $1,000 each are available to assist medical students. Abbott Loan Fund and to the Two loans are still available and we encourage student FMWC members to apply! While Maude Abbott Research Fund is priority is given to medical students, resident members will also be considered. Two loans appreciated. remain available for approval at the Annual Board Meeting this September. The deadline for applications is June 30, 2009. MALF Loans fall due one year after the date of gradu- Anonymous (2); Dr. Alina Marin; ation of the successful applicant. Dr. Anathalie W Taylor Lee; Dr. Anne Lees; Dr. Barbara Allan; Dr. Barbara Full details of the documentation required and the application form are available on- Robinson; Dr. Beverly V Brilz; Dr. line at: www.fmwc.ca Please contact the national offi ce if you have any questions about Carol White; Dr. Charmaine Roye; Dr. MALF: [email protected] or 1-877-771-3777 (toll-free). Chris Telfer; Dr. Deborah Elliott; Dr. Donna Lougheed; Dr. Doris Kent; Dr. E.M (Mary) Laurie-Pile; Dr. Elizabeth A. Schneider; Dr. Ethel McPhail; Dr. Gerald Cohen; Dr. Janice Heard; Dr. MARF - Maude Abbott Research Fund Judy L Patterson; Dr. Julie Williams; This year we are making a concerted ef- • Research grants to be given to women Dr. Juliet Luna-Algoso; Dr. Laura fort at fundraising for the Maude Abbott physicians in Canada for topics in Abbott; Dr. Lesley Pinder; Dr. Lorna Research Fund. Some of you have con- Women’s Health and Health Issues Grant Orr; Dr. Maria Znamirowska; tributed to the fund when you renew your • Fundraising initial target for this year is Dr. Marjorie B. Moore; Dr. Mary membership; FMWC sincerely thanks you $100,000 Donlevy; Dr. Maureen Briscoe; Dr. for your support. Nahid Azad; Dr. Nancy Chipman; Dr. Donate: Nancy Maguire; Dr. Nathalie Jetté; FMWC wants to build on this generos- By sending a cheque now Dr. Nina Scherer; Dr. Ophelia Lynn ity by requesting all members to contrib- By pledging an annual amount MacDonald; Dr. Patricia Gagnon; ute to the fund. We need income from a By making a planned gift Dr. Rebecca Dobson; Dr. Roberta base of $100,000 to start granting research By fundraising through your local branch C Ongley; Dr. Sajni Thomas; Dr. awards annually. Shajia Khan; Dr. V. Marie Storrie; Dr. For further information contact Dr. Winnifred Lloyd-Smith; Dr. Yolande Some facts about the MARF: Shajia Khan, Chair, MARF (Maude Leduc. • Started in 2000, now approved for Abbott Research Fund) Committee, charitable status as an endowment fund (613) 234-2594, [email protected]

“... compelling from As a young girl living at the end of the the fi rst page to the nineteenth century, Agnes White chooses to pursue her calling to become a doctor — even last ... [an] astounding if it means taking on the illustrious medical literary achievement.” establishment at McGill University. Based on the life of Dr. Maude Abbott, The Heart Specialist is a testament to the power of Lawrence Hill, will and tenacity. Agnes White is proof that in a world on the brink of change, anything is author of possible. The Book of Negroes THE HEART SPECIALIST Please visit www.cormorantbooks.com/ CLAIRE HOLDEN ROTHMAN theheartspecialist

Page 17 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Events

Calendar of Upcoming Events 2009

March 01, 2009 to November 28, 2009 September 19-26, 2009 - MWIA North American Meeting Physician Manager Institute Workshops, CMA Theme: “Caring for the Caregiver” Various Cities (BC, AB, ON, QC) www.cma.ca/pmi Cruise from Boston to Montréal www.seacourses.com

June 17- 21, 2009 - Annual Clinical September 26-27, 2009 - FMWC AGM, Meeting (ACM), SOGC Leadership & Advocacy Workshops Halifax, Nova Scotia www.sogc.org/cme/ Theme: “Beyond Balance: Achieving Professional and Personal Harmony” September 17-19, 2009 - 21st Quebec CME, SOGC Montréal, Québec www.fmwc.ca Charlevoix, Québec www.sogc.org/cme/ July 27-31, 2010 - 28th International Congress MWIA Munster, Germany www.mwia2010.net/

ANNUAL CLINICAL MEETING June 17–21, 2009 HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA 65e assemblée clinique annuelle Du 17 au 21 juin 2009 Halifax, Nouvelle-Écosse World Trade & Convention Centre

Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada Société des obstétriciens et gynécologues du Canada 780 promenade Echo Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5R7 Tel/Tél. : 1 800 561-2416 or/ou (613) 730-4192 www.sogc.org Fax/Téléc. : (613) 730-4314 [email protected]

Page 18 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Membership

Call for FMWC Membership Application Form Nominations – We encourage you to register on-line at: www.fmwc.ca Honorary Member

First Name: ______We are currently seeking nomina- tions from you, the membership, for the Last Name: ______Honorary Member for 2009. Do you Address: ______know a woman who has rendered out- standing service to one or more of the fol- City: ______Province: ______lowing: the Federation of Medical Women (FMWC), to medicine and particularly to Country: ______Postal Code: ______women’s health issues? Tel (Offi ce): ______Tel (Home): ______Honorary Members may or may not Fax: ______E-mail Address: ______be members of the FMWC or the medi- cal profession. Not more than one (1) Privacy Choices: Honorary Member may be elected in any  Yes, you may share my coordinates (name, address, email, phone number, fax one (1) year. Honorary Members may be number) with other FMWC members as required for completion of FMWC nominated by any member of the FMWC business. and shall be elected only with the unani-  No, I do not want to share my coordinates with other FMWC members. mous approval of the Board of Directors  Yes, I would be willing to be interviewed by the media on behalf of the FMWC. prior to FMWC’s annual meeting and with majority approval at the annual meeting of Newsletter: the Newsletter will be delivered to your email inbox. Please be sure we FMWC members. have your current email address. If you would like to receive a paper copy please indicate here: Deadline: Nominations must be re-  Yes, I really prefer to have a paper copy ceived by the National Offi ce in time for  No, I would like to help FMWC save expenses and trees processing prior to the FMWC’s Annual Board Meeting (by August 31, 2009). Referral: How did you hear about the FMWC? ______A member suggested I join (member’s name): ______Nomination Form Membership Categories:  Full Membership: $135.00  1st/2nd Year in Practice: $75.00  Retired: $50.00  Resident: $50.00 I, ______,  Out-of-country: $50.00  Medical Student: $25.00 (name of member)  Associate: $50.00 wish to nominate ______(name of person you wish to nominate) Membership Dues as Honorary member for 2009. My (A tax deductible receipt will be sent) $ ______reasons for suggesting this person are: Maude Abbott Loan Fund Donation ______(A tax deductible charitable donation receipt will be sent) $ ______Maude Abbott Research Fund Donation ______(A tax deductible charitable donation receipt will be sent) $ ______If you have a biography of your TOTAL $ ______nominee, please provide a copy to the National Offi ce. Method of Payment:  Cheque (Payable to “FMWC”) Send this nomination form to the  Visa National offi ce.  Master Card - Email: [email protected] (this form is available on-line at: www. Card Number: ______Expiry date: ___ / ____ fmwc.ca) SIGNATURE: ______- Fax: (613)569-4432 or toll free 1-877-772-5777. Fax to FMWC 1-877-772-5777 or (613) 569-4432 - Mail: FMWC 780 Echo Dr. Ottawa or mail to 780 Echo Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5R7. ON K1S 5R7

Page 19 ▪ Vol 22 ▪ No 2 Board of Directors 2008–2009

President Region III (Ontario, Québec) Standing Committees Dr. Kathleen Gartke, Ottawa, ON Dr. Deborah Elliott, Kingston, ON Awards Committee President –Elect Region IV (NB, NS, PEI, Chair – Dr. Karen Breeck Dr. Andrea Canty, Saint John, NB NL & Labrador) Members – Dr. Patricia Warshawski, Dr. Dr. Sajni Thomas, Saint John, NB Lesley Pinder, Dr. Pat Mousmanis, Dr. Past President Susan Wilkinson Dr. Janet Dollin, Ottawa, ON Treasurer Branch Presidents Nominating Committee Dr. Susan Wilkinson, Ottawa, ON Chair – Dr. Janet Dollin Cowichan Valley –VACANT Members – Dr. Andrea Canty, Dr. Gail Honorary Secretary Okanagan – Dr. Lianne Lacroix Beck Dr. Cathy Wilkie, Winnipeg, MB Vancouver – Dr. Teresa Clarke Finance Committee MWIA National Coordinator Victoria – Dr. Marjon Blouw Chair – Dr. Shajia Khan Dr. Zohra Docrat, Brantford ON Members – Dr. Susan Wilkinson, Dr. Gail Calgary – Dr. Elu Thompson Editor, Ex-Offi cio Beck Central Alberta – Dr. Shirley Hovan Dr Nahid Azad, Ottawa, ON Maude Abbott Research Fund Committee National Student Representative Edmonton – Dr. Setorme Tsikata Chair – Dr. Shajia Khan Rachel Ptashny, Montréal, QC Saskatoon – Dr. Alanna Danilkewich Members – Dr. Shirley Hovan, Dr. Rose Goldstein National Resident Representative Winnipeg – Dr. Elizabeth Watson Ashley Waddington, Halifax, NS Kingston – Dr. Merril Harmsen Workforce Special Committee CMA Specialist Forum Janet Hall Branch – Dr. Zohra Docrat Chair – Dr. Linda Mrkonjic Representative Members – Dr. Cheryl Levitt, Ms. Gina London –VACANT Schroeder Dr. Sajni Thomas, Saint John NB Hamilton – VACANT CMA Education Representative Website Special Committee Toronto – Dr. Mussarat Qaadri Dr. Nahid Azad, Ottawa, ON Chair –Dr. Janet Dollin Peel Region – Dr. Yasmin Rehemtula Members – Dr. Nahid Azad, Dr. Kerry Ottawa/Hull – Dr. Mamta Gautam Jo Parker, Ms. Shafeena Premji, Ms. Iva Vukin, Ms. Pamela Verma Regional Representatives Moncton – VACANT Region I (British Columbia, Yukon) Saint John – Dr. Kerry Jo Parker To reach one of the Board members, Dr. Lianne Lacroix, Kelowna, BC Halifax – VACANT simply email [email protected] or call Region II (Alberta, NWT, the National Offi ce and your message will SK, MB, Nunavut) Thunder Bay - Dr. Crystal Cannon be forwarded to them:1-877-771-3777 (toll Dr. Muriel Solomon, Calgary, AB free) or 613-569-5881 (in Ottawa).

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