VoxMeDALSUMMER/FALL 2015 THE VOICE OF DALHOUSIE MEDICAL ALUMNI

2015 DMAA Alumni Award recipients PLUS Alumni making a difference | Convocation 2015 | and more! Research is everything.

Create a lasting Legacy. Remember medical research in your estate plan.

To explore the many ways of giving please contact: Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation

Phone: (902) 494.3502 Toll free: 1.888.866.6559 1-A1 Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building 5850 College Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Registered Charity BN#: 11922 9318 RR0001 9318 Charity BN#: 11922 Registered dmrf.ca mollyappeal.ca VoxMeDAL SUMMER/FALL 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS alumni.medicine.dal.ca WELCOME Mailed under Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement #40601061 4 DMAA president’s message EDITOR Nicole Tanner 5 Dean’s message CONTRIBUTORS 6 DMNB update Cory Burris, Evie Sabean Croucher, Allison Gerrard, Erinor Jacob-Levine, Melanie Jollymore, Boon Kek, NEWS & UPDATES Alana Milner, and Nicole Tanner DMAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 7 DMAA board of directors welcomes new EXECUTIVE members 18 Dr. David Amirault (MD’76), President 8 Chesley Research Fund announces grant Dr. John Steeves (MD’74), Vice-president Dr. George Ferrier (MD’73), Treasurer recipients Dr. Dan Reid (MD’70), Past-president Dr. J. Stuart Soeldner (MD’59), Honorary President 9 Making a commitment to innovations in global health MEMBERS AT LARGE Dr. Michael Banks (MD’70) 38 Upcoming alumni events and reunions Dr. Lori Connors (MD’05) Dr. Cindy Forbes (MD’85) 44 Class notes Dr. Katherine Glazebrook (MD’94) Dr. Samantha Gray (MD’07) 45 In memoriam Dr. Margaret Leighton (MD’77) 27 Dr. Merv Shaw (MD’65) COVER STORY Dr. Colin Van Zoost (MD’09) Dr. Joanna Zed (MD’88) 30 DMAA Alumni Awards EXECUTIVE EX-OFFICIO Dr. David Anderson (MD’83), Dean, Faculty of Medicine ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE Evie Sabean Croucher, Alumni Relations Of¿cer Michael MacGillivary (MD’18), DMSS President 25 Dr. Rob Liwski leads the way to faster crossmatching for organ transplants Dr. Adam Harris (MD’12), Maritime Resident Doctors Representative 26 Healing the world: Dedication to global health takes Dr. Dominic Allain across the country and beyond Please send news, story ideas, comments, and/or address changes to: 28 Searching for Waldo Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association Dalhousie University 5850 College St. Rm. 1-C1 FACULTY OF MEDICINE PO Box 15000 10 Infrastructure funding will put Dal on the map for rare disease research Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Tel: 902-494-8800 Fax: 902-422-1324 11 Private donors enhance melanoma care in the Maritimes email: [email protected] alumni.medicine.dal.ca 12 Dalhousie zebrafish research test safer, less toxic cancer therapies facebook.com/dalmedalumni 13 Dal researchers identify cell-changing gene that can cause cancer 14 Fatty liver disease: a silent epidemic 16 Dal leads international study looking at inflammation’s role in arthritis and heart failure 17 Investment in Canadian knowledge of aging renewed 18 How you deal with stress could be related to your genes

VoxMeDAL is published twice a year CONVOCATION 2015 by Metro Guide Publishing Publisher: Patty Baxter 20 Convocation 2015 Advertising Sales: Barb McConnell 22 Convocation awards & scholarships recipients 46 2015 honorary degree recipients

Metro Guide Publishing 2882 Gottingen Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 3E2 Tel: 902-420-9943 Fax: 902-429-9058 2015 DMAA Alumni Award [email protected] recipients Drs. Meng Tan (MD’69), metroguidepublishing.ca Ivan Woolfrey (MD’65), ISSN 0830-5315 (Print) Jim MacKillop (MD’81), ISSN 2292-6348 (Online) and Alexa Bagnell (MD’97).

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 3 WELCOME DMAA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Saying hello to all the new faces

By Dr. David Amirault (MD’76) DMAA President

Congratulations to the class of 2015 and to their class in terms of leadership and (MD’61) and Don Brown (MD’59) for their those finishing residency this year. Having extracurricular activities. These honours are years of service and dedication to the DMAA had contact with a number of you over the well-deserved. Congratulations once again. board. last four years, I can attest to the fact that I would like to welcome Dr. David Finally, I would like to remind everyone all of you have the knowledge and skills Anderson (MD’83) as our new dean of that the DMAA Awards Gala Dinner will to be successful in your chosen fields. As medicine, as well as Dr. Jennifer Hall, the take place on Friday, October 16 at Pier 21. difficult as it seemed during your training, new associate dean of Dalhousie Medicine The Gala is an opportunity to reconnect you will look back on your medical school New Brunswick. These two accomplished with classmates, raise money for deserving days as some of the best times of your life. physicians bring years of experience with students, and recognize the outstanding We are proud to have you in the “Dal Med them that will lead our alma mater into the accomplishments of our alumni. Family.” Remember to update Dalhousie future and beyond. This year’s award recipients are Dr. Meng whenever you move in the future so you I would also like to welcome Drs. Lori Tan (MD’69), Alumnus of the Year; Dr. Ivan won’t miss out on issues of VoxMeDAL and Connors (MD’05) and Colin Van Zoost Woolfrey (MD’65), Honorary President; Dr. news about your class reunions. As the years (MD’09) to the DMAA board of directors. We Jim MacKillop (MD’81), Family Physician go by, class reunions take on a meaningful look forward to their help and input in the of the Year; and Dr. Alexa Bagnell (MD’97), role for you. I can confirm that they are a lot future. Also joining the board as ex-officio Young Alumna of the Year. To learn more of fun, and it is great to renew old ties. members are Dr. Adam Harris (MD’12), our about these exceptional alumni, read pages I had the privilege of attending the representative from Maritime Resident 30–38. Please join us at the DMAA Gala to Convocation Gala on May 30. It was an Doctors (formerly PARI-MP), and Michael celebrate the accomplishments of these four honour to help present the Gold and Silver MacGillivary (MD’18), DMSS president. worthy physicians. We hope to see you there. Ds to the students in the class of 2015 Welcome aboard. I would also like to thank who have made significant contributions our retiring members Drs. Bill Mason

4 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca WELCOME DEAN’S MESSAGE

Looking ahead: welcome from the new dean of medicine

By Dr. David Anderson (MD’83) Dean, Faculty of Medicine

As I write my inaugural VoxMeDAL message associate dean. We’re fortunate to have for the fantastic job he did over his six-year as Dalhousie Medical School’s 13th dean, I such strong individuals assuming these tenure as dean. A proud Dal grad, Tom has reflect on our medical school’s rich tradition. leadership positions for Dalhousie. been a superb physician, scientist, educator, A Dalhousie alumnus myself (class of ’83), Over the next while, we’ll be gearing mentor, and leader over his illustrious I’m aware of the top-notch education our up for our upcoming accreditation cycle. career. We’re all much better for his efforts medical school has offered countless Our first visit from the Committee on and contributions. graduates over the years. Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools Please don’t hesitate to contact our An integral part of Maritime Canada since and the Liaison Committee on Medical alumni office, or me, if you have questions 1868, Dalhousie Medical School continues Education—the accrediting bodies for North or suggestions as we move forward. to provide excellent training through our American medical schools—isn’t until Until next time. undergraduate and postgraduate programs. early 2017. But as many of you would know, And our health research activities, often preparing faculty, staff, and students for the done in collaboration with our teaching accreditation process takes time. hospitals, are internationally competitive In 2018, we’ll be celebrating the medical and respected. school’s 150th anniversary. Already, we’re From an administrative perspective, there planning special events to commemorate have been a lot of exciting developments. this year. Stay tuned for further details. A new associate dean for undergraduate I look forward to meeting many of you at education (Dr. Evelyn Sutton [MD’84]) and a our annual alumni dinner on October 16. I new associate dean for Dalhousie Medicine hope that you’ll take the opportunity to join New Brunswick (Dr. Jennifer Hall) were us at Pier 21 and learn more about what’s recently appointed, ushering in a new era happening in and around your alma mater. of leadership for our undergrad programs. Finally, on behalf of the entire Dalhousie And a little over a year ago, Dr. Darrell White Medical School community, I want to thank (MD’91) became the medical school’s senior my predecessor, Dr. Thomas Marrie (MD’70),

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 5 WELCOME DALHOUSIE MEDICINE NEW BRUNSWICK

Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick update

By Dr. Jennifer Hall

The opportunities and challenges of a when communicating through the use of school class for a hands-on tour, two of distributed medical education campus are information and communication technologies. our graduate students have participated a reality for me now. I have the privilege Throughout this process, students have in a middle school science fair, one of our of taking on a leadership role at Dalhousie demonstrated an increased understanding graduate students organized the Saint John Medicine New Brunswick and continuing to and appreciation for research, and a Science Rendezvous 2015, and a second build on the sound foundation constructed number have been inspired to continue with middle school has invited us to participate by Dr. John Steeves (MD’74). As Dr. Tom their work beyond what was required for in their career day. These initiatives open up Marrie (MD’70) recently indicated, DMNB completion of their course requirements. the possibility of careers in research for the is a mature program now; no longer in its This research scholarship has not youth of New Brunswick. infancy, DMNB is a partner in the ongoing been confined to the medical students. I look forward to being a part of DMNB’s development of the Faculty of Medicine. Graduate students at DMNB have also been commitment to research and scholarly As the medical curriculum has developed recognized for their scholarly endeavours. excellence throughout the educational to include such initiatives as the Research Recently, Kenneth D’Souza from Dr. Petra continuum. in Medicine (RIM) course, it is clear that Kienesberger’s lab was awarded the 2015 scholarly inquiry and critical thinking have a Dalhousie Killam Scholarship, the most solid foundation at DMNB. At the recent RIM coveted award given to a Dalhousie graduate Day, DMNB students competently described student by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. the research pursuits they had been part of The $25,000 per year scholarship will with the careful guidance of basic scientists enable him to further his research on the and clinical researchers from all over development of obesity-induced insulin New Brunswick. These projects covered a resistance. wide range of subject areas, including a The DMNB cardiovascular researchers comparison of mortality rates post-trauma continue to be successful in grant award in two different centres with different applications, including their recent awards of trauma care organizational processes, NSERC Research Tool Instrumentation Grant current screening and diagnostic practices (worth $150,000) and the NBIF Research for Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Avoidable Technician Grant (worth $75,000). Some of Emergency department utilization following the other funding received includes NBHRF elective thoracolumbar spine surgery, to operating bridge funding, two DMNB Grad name a few. Studentships, and the NBHRF-SPOR-MSSU Medical student Monica Graves (MD’17) Post-doc Fellowship Award (worth $100,000 was one of the winners of the Dalhousie for two years). Medical Research Foundation Best Poster The importance of research in and to the Awards for her work on Health professionals’ communities we serve has been highlighted. perceived barriers and facilitators to collaborating Since January, our lab has welcomed a high

6 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca NEWS & UPDATES

DMAA update DMAA board of directors welcomes I would like to welcome the MD class of 2015 new members and everyone who completed their residency at Dalhousie this year to the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association (DMAA). I hope DR. LORI DR. ADAM that you’ll remain involved and connected CONNORS HARRIS (MD’12), with your alumni association as you head on (MD’05), MARITIME to new adventures. MEMBER AT RESIDENT The office has been busy over the past LARGE DOCTORS few months as we assisted with convocation Lori Connors REPRESENTATIVE activities and reunion planning. I was able is an allergist to attend the DMNB Launch Ceremony in Adam Harris and clinical Saint John, and it was a pleasure to be there graduated from immunologist for such a great event. The 2015 Faculty Dalhousie medical practising in of Medicine Convocation Awards and school in 2012 and Halifax, N.S. She has a combined academic Scholarships Ceremony was held in May, is currently a resident specializing in and community-based practice. Through and I would like to thank all of the alumni, emergency medicine. Dr. Harris was active in her work as program director, Pediatric donors, faculty, and staff that were on hand many leadership positions while in medical Clinical Immunology & Allergy; unit head, to present the awards to such deserving school, including working as the DMSS Skilled Clinician Year 1; and assistant students. vice president external, a representative clerkship director, Internal Medicine, Lori Planning efforts are in full swing for the on the Dalhousie Student Union, and a is heavily involved in medical education. DMAA Alumni Awards Gala in October. This member of the Dalhousie University board She is also CPD chair and board member year’s award recipients are an extremely of governors. Prior to his medical education, for the Canadian Society of Allergy and accomplished and well-deserving group, and Adam completed a Bachelor of Science Clinical Immunology. Since receiving I strongly encourage all alumni to attend at St. Francis Xavier University, where her MD from Dalhousie in 2005, she has the gala and celebrate with us. It’s my first he was president of the student union completed residencies in internal medicine one, so I’d love to meet as many of you and a member of the university board of (Dalhousie’08), clinical immunology and as possible. If the menu tastings are any governors. allergy (McMaster’10), and a master’s in indication, it’s going to be a great event! education (Acadia’15). In November, the DMAA office will be MICHAEL undergoing a renovation. Drop by in the New MACGILLIVARY Year to see our new look, grab a coffee, and DR. COLIN VAN (MD’18), DMSS introduce yourself. ZOOST (MD’09), PRESIDENT Don’t forget that the DMAA is always MEMBER AT Michael MacGillivary looking for stories of outstanding alumni. LARGE Do you know someone who deserves to is proud to join the be profiled in VoxMeDAL? Please send any Colin Van Zoost DMAA board as suggestions to [email protected]. is a native of president of DMSS for —Evie Sabean Croucher, Alumni Relations Officer Falmouth, N.S. the 2015–2016 year. He completed his Mike has completed a master’s degree in undergraduate biology and worked as a marine biologist training in human kinetics at St. FX with the Department of Fisheries and University and then went on to complete Oceans for three years prior to pursuing a his medical degree and residency in internal career in medicine. He is also an avid golfer medicine at Dalhousie. He predominately and a Seinfeld enthusiast. In the role of DMSS works as a general internist in Dartmouth president, Mike endeavours to work with and is also an assistant professor with various committees on the accreditation the division of general internal medicine process, increase student engagement, at Dalhousie. Dr. Van Zoost has a clinical and increase interaction between the interest in poverty and is the president and student body and DMAA. Mike welcomes a founding member of Walk in Our Shoes, a alumni to contact him directly with any free foot care clinic for people experiencing career initiatives or other opportunities for poverty. students. You can reach him at [email protected].

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 7 NEWS & UPDATES

Chesley Research Fund announces grant Health Canada recipients approves new

Created by Dr. Arthur Chesley (MD’55), the Chesley Research Fund offers awards up to a psoriasis drug maximum of $25,000 each for collaborative research projects of significant scientific merit. Cosentyx, a new psoriasis injection and the The Research Fund is sponsored by the Chesley Family Endowment and the Health Innovation first treatment of its kind, has been given Research Fund. This fund’s mandate is to increase collaborative research initiatives between the stamp of approval by Health Canada. Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick and Horizon Health Network, Saint John Area. The drug was discovered and tested by Each submission requires at least two principle applicants. One applicant should be based an international team of researchers led in Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick and the other should have a Horizon Health Network by Dalhousie Medical School’s Dr. Richard appointment. Langley (MD’90). “Using an antibody called The third group of recipients of the Chesley Research Fund grants was announced on secukinumab, we showed that for more than May 25, 2015, by Mrs. Doris Chesley. Three research projects benefiting from this investment 80 per cent of patients, the secukinumab include: injection cleared up skin lesions,” says • Dr. Petra Kienesberger and Dr. Ansar Hassan: The Effect of Obesity on Post-operative Dr. Langley. In one of the largest psoriasis Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery (prospective study) studies ever reported, the antibody proved • Dr. Michael K Howlett and Dr. JoAnn Talbot: Critical Dynamics Intervention Trial: Prospective to be almost twice as effective as some Evaluation of a Coping Style Intervention to Reduce Work Burnout in Emergency Department other psoriasis treatments currently on the Health Professionals market and achieved unprecedented levels • Dr. Yagang Xie and Dr. Terrance Comeau: Whole-exome Sequencing of BCR-ABL-Negative of clearing even in severe cases. Myeloproliferative Neoplasms—Searching for the Novel Causative/Modifier Gene(s) —Allison Gerrard —Erinor Jacob-Levine First Foundation Course in Occupational Medicine a success

In September 2014, Dalhousie introduced the Foundation Course in Occupational Medicine for the Maritime Provinces. Eleven physicians from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick completed the course in June. A collaboration with the University of Alberta’s Division of Preventive Medicine, the course provides community-based physicians with additional knowledge and skills to understand and manage work- related problems, such as return-to-work planning, work-related physical and mental health problems, communication with employers, and patient advocacy. Dr. Anil Adisesh, the JD Irving, Limited, Research L to R: Dr. Yagang Xie, Dr. Michael Howlett, Mrs. Doris Chesley, and Dr. Petra Kienesberger. Chair in Occupational Medicine at Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, and Dr. Simona Parascan, a family physician with Horizon Health Network, are the course facilitators. The physicians who took part in the program were able to serve as a support network for one another in sharing their experiences managing workplace challenges in their practices. The course is approved for 111 MainPro M1 credits and 15 hours MainPro C credits. Recruitment for 2015/2016 is open. For more information, visit foundationcourse. ualberta.ca or contact [email protected]. —Boon Kek

8 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca NEWS & UPDATES

Making a commitment to innovations in global health

The Global Health Office led new initiatives to advance the Faculty of Medicine’s commitment to community engagement and strengthen our social accountability mandate. Our programs reflect the depth of global health in our local environment as well as internationally. We renewed our partnership with International Medical University of Malaysia, and continued to work with the Saudi Arabia Cultural Bureau and State of Kuwait. We are part of a grant with the Global Health Research Initiative, led by Dr. John LeBlanc, to strengthen access to safe deliveries in rural Tanzania. Our Dalhousie students continue to demonstrate their passion and commitment to understanding the determinants of health and social justice by completing the innovative Advocates in Global Health Certificate and participating in international electives in Tanzania, Malaysia, and Guyana with support from the MD class of 1972’s International Health Education Endowment. For the second year, a full class completed the Certificate in Health Systems, demonstrating the leadership in global health in our faculty and residents. We started a pathway program to increase the number of African Nova Scotian students in medicine and the health professions. We held our first summer camp in 2014 and are currently planning the second camp for high school students from across the province. We are planning for the new academic year. For more information, visit dal.ca/globalhealth or email [email protected]. —Global Health Office

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 9 FACULTY OF MEDICINE Infrastructure funding will put Dal on the map for rare disease research

By Alana Milner

Technology is constantly changing and the health of infants, children, and youths impacts our lives every day. In the case affected by Rare Diseases (RDs).” of technology for equipment used in rare There are more than 7,000 RDs and disease research, the changes can be approximately one in 50 children is affected lifesaving. by at least one of them. Many causes and “With today’s equipment we can diagnose treatment options for RDs are not known, genes that cause a rare disease within a making many of them life limiting. week and with less cost,” explains Dr. Chris “Together with the other institutions, we McMaster, the Carnegie and Rockefeller are putting Canada on the map as a world Professor and head of the Department of leader in this area of research and treatment,” Dr. Chris McMaster. Pharmacology at Dalhousie Medical School. says Dr. McMaster. “By coming together we “Before, it used to take five to seven years to can share our knowledge and gain from each societal benefits of this infrastructure,” says make a diagnosis.” other’s areas of expertise, helping discover Dr. McMaster. “We can now find the causes On May 29, 2015, the Honourable Ed ways to identify and cure RDs.” and cures for RDs with great accuracy, Holder, Minister of State (Science and BOOSTING RESEARCH AND helping lengthen life expectancy.” Technology) announced recipients of ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The new infrastructure will be located in funding through the Canada Foundation the Life Sciences Centre and will be available for Innovation (CFI) Innovation Fund. Dr. “Researchers at Dal have always been to all Dal researchers through the CORES McMaster is a co-principal investigator of strong at discovering new genes, identifying program. the Research Program for Rare Pediatric drug targets, and developing the drugs to In total, the RaPiD project received Diseases (RaPiD) who received funding as treat them,” explains Dr. McMaster. “The $2.6 million from CFI. More information can part of the announcement. new infrastructure will move our research be found on CFI’s website, innovation.ca forward at a light-speed pace, whereas THE POWER OF A RESEARCH before we were limited.” NETWORK Those limitations did not slow Dal down “RaPiD brings together researchers from in its discoveries and developments in the Dal, the University of Ottawa, Université areas of genomics and RDs research. There of Montréal, and the University of British have been a number of spinout companies Columbia,” says Dr. McMaster. “Together from Dalhousie who are moving drugs to we will use the CFI funding to put in place market, helping generate jobs. The new infrastructure at our respective institutions infrastructure will help others do the same to develop novel diagnostic tools, and and keep companies here in Nova Scotia. enhanced intervention and prevention “In addition to the research and economic strategies to change the way we care for benefits of this research, there are also the

10 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca FACULTY OF MEDICINE Private donors enhance melanoma care in the Maritimes $1-million donation from Leslie and Allan Shaw

Melanoma diagnoses are on the rise across Columbia, the machine uses a handheld Science at Dalhousie Medical School, will the nation. According to the Public Health scanner to shine a special light on the skin. lead the study. Agency of Canada, one in 59 men and one in The device measures subtle vibrations “We want to know if the Verisante 73 women could develop melanoma in their emitted by molecules in and around a mole machine is capable of detecting early- lifetime. It’s the most serious type of skin or lesion. Cancerous growths produce very stage melanoma as effectively as a human cancer. different vibrations than healthy tissues, specialist can,” notes Dr. Langley, explaining “Nova Scotia has one of the highest which the Verisante Aura is programmed to that, while melanoma is 100 per cent rates of melanoma in the country,” says automatically detect. curable if detected and removed before it Dr. Richard Langley (MD’90), professor and The Shaws’ gift will also buy two other has spread, survival rates drop sharply when director of research in Dalhousie Medical pieces of equipment: the MelaFind and this is not the case. School’s Division of Dermatology. “This the FotoFinder. The MelaFind is an optical “If it is, we’ll see major improvements dangerous form of skin cancer is now the imaging and analysis device that will help to patient care, because the machine does eighth most common cancer in Canada. dermatologists decide if a skin biopsy should not require a dermatologist to interpret Fortunately, if treated in the early stages be taken. The FotoFinder is a computerized the results—this can be done by a trained of diagnosis, melanoma has a 90 per cent mole mapping system that photographs the technician. So, people will not face long survival rate.” skin, detecting changes over time. waits to have suspicious moles examined, “We are so very pleased to be bringing this and there will be fewer removed for biopsy, new equipment to Halifax, not only because freeing pathologists’ time to analyze the INVESTING IN DIAGNOSIS, it will save lives and a great deal of stress and most concerning specimens.” TREATMENT, AND RESEARCH worry for people, but also because it will put Thanks to the Shaws’ donation, the Nova Leslie Shaw, a Nova Scotian who spent Dalhousie at the forefront of advancing the Scotia Department of Health and Wellness summers in the sun as a lifeguard in her early diagnosis of melanoma,” says Mr. Shaw. has agreed to house a high-risk melanoma teens, has had seven melanomas removed clinic at the QEII Health Sciences Centre. over the past 15 years. The first time, she “We can see already that the Shaws’ gift ENHANCING PATIENT CARE waited eight months to see a dermatologist, is transformational,” says Dr. Langley. “We THROUGH RESEARCH over two months to receive the results of her suddenly have a clinic with state-of-the- biopsy, and another month to see a surgeon. In addition to the equipment itself, the art equipment and a dedicated team of In an effort to improve melanoma Shaws’ gift will fund a five-year clinical industry experts. From this kind of base, diagnosis and treatment in the province, Ms. trial of the Verisante Aura, comparing its we can attract more funding and trainees Shaw and her husband, Allan, recently made effectiveness to that of standard methods of to build a melanoma research program a $1-million gift to the Dalhousie Medical examining the skin. Dr. Langley and Dr. Peter that will make a major impact on the Research Foundation. Hull, professor and head of the Division understanding and treatment of this very “We want our gift to make an immediate of Clinical Dermatology and Cutaneous serious form of skin cancer.” difference in the lives of people living in the Maritimes,” says Ms. Shaw. “Waiting weeks, or even months, for a melanoma diagnosis is stressful and ultimately life-threatening.” A portion of the Shaws’ gift is designated for innovative diagnostic technology, while the rest will be endowed to fund a nurse, and eventually a postdoctoral fellowship in melanoma research. “This endowment will keep talented researchers studying this devastating form of skin cancer at Dalhousie Medical School, indefinitely,” says Ms. Shaw.

BRINGING STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY TO HALIFAX

The initial stages of the project will involve the purchase of technology, including Photo: Danny Abriel the Verisante Aura. Developed in British Leslie and Allan Shaw.

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 11 FACULTY OF MEDICINE Dalhousie zebra¿sh research tests safer, less toxic cancer therapies

By Cory Burris

For those with a mind for science, like leukemia in Canada each year. Eighty per patient’s T-ALL within three days,” says Dr. Victoria Bentley (MD’18), a lab is the hotspot cent of those are acute lymphoblastic Dellaire. “If we were using this information of discovery. leukemia (ALL). T-ALL specifically targets to guide therapy, we could rapidly identify A Dalhousie student since 2012, our body’s T-cells and accounts for an effective drug and personalize a patient’s Bentley—formerly a masters student in approximately 15 per cent of ALL diagnoses. therapy, reducing side-effects and improving the Department of Pathology who’s now “It’s a rare, high-risk subset of leukemia,” outcome.” finishing the first year of her MD degree—is says Bentley. a co-author of two cancer studies that have PROTECTING THE HEART bubbled up from Dalhousie Medical School’s TESTING THERAPIES Zebrafish Core Facility. The co-authors are also using a zebrafish The two studies use a technique called The first study, published in Haematologica, model to test protectants for cardiotoxicity: xenotransplantation. Pioneered by Drs. demonstrates for the first time that T-cell the damaging effects of chemotherapy on Graham Dellaire and Jason Berman, leukemia cells from a patient’s bone marrow the heart. associate professors in the Departments of biopsy can be successfully xenografted in Published in Science Translational Pathology and Pediatrics, respectively, the zebrafish. Medicine, the group’s second, high-impact technique was used to transplant human The process involves microinjecting study examined the chemotherapy drug leukemia cells into zebrafish embryos, fluorescently labelled patient tumour cells doxorubicin, a common treatment for allowing Bentley to study their growth and into the yolk sac of a 48-hour-old zebrafish leukemias and many adult cancers, test anti-cancer therapies. embryo. As the zebrafish continues its including breast cancer. natural growth, the T-ALL cells engraft Although widely used, children treated and grow in the fish. This allows treatment with doxorubicin for leukemia often suffer A RARE FORM OF LEUKEMIA response to be tested in the lab and provides heart damage, predisposing them for heart The group’s research focuses on a specific information on the best therapy for a failure decades after successful treatment. type of leukemia (a cancer of the white specific patient. The drug can cause similar cardiac damage blood cells) called T-cell acute lymphocytic The therapies the group examined to adult patients, increasing the chance of leukemia (T-ALL). specifically target genetic mutations post-therapy heart failure. Under normal conditions, blood stem cells commonly found in T-ALL and inhibit Dr. Berman, chair of the Zebrafish Core in our body become one of two types of basic hyper activation of growth signals and cell Facility and one of its main tenants, says his cells: red blood cells, and white blood cells, proliferation. An effective drug is identified studies on chemoprotectants began through which help fight infection in the body. But when the xenografted cells in the zebrafish a collaboration with Dr. Randall Peterson when blood stem cells in the bone marrow no longer divide, or ultimately die, compared at Massachusetts General Hospital and grow and behave outside of their normal to cells in fish without a drug treatment. Harvard Medical Centre. parameters, they develop into leukemia Eventually, the research could lead to “When zebrafish embryos are treated cells. These cells are the cause of the cancer better personalization of therapy for T-cell in water with doxorubicin, they develop the co-authors are studying. leukemia patients. abnormalities of the heart,” explains Dr. According to the studies’ authors, there “Our zebrafish xenograft model allowed Berman. “Dr. Peterson identified a number are about 300 cases of childhood acute us to determine the susceptibility of a of compounds that protected the zebrafish

First-year medical student Victoria Bentley (MD’18) is co-author on two new studies examining a rare, high-risk subset of leukemia. Photos: Dalhousie Medical School and Nick Pearce

12 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca FACULTY OF MEDICINE

heart when exposed to this drug. One of the most promising compounds was a drug Dal researchers identify cell-changing called visnagin.” The data from Dr. Peterson’s work was applied to Drs. Berman and Dellaire’s human gene that can cause cancer leukemia zebrafish transplant research. When paired with visnagin, the doxorubicin By Allison Gerrard treatment effectively killed the human leukemia cells xenografted in zebrafish but protected the zebrafish heart from doxorubicin-induced heart damage. “It’s incredibly exciting to think that we could customize a patient’s treatment strategy with the hope of minimizing toxicities and improving outcomes,” says Bentley.

STUDENT-LED RESEARCH AT DALHOUSIE

“I have a longstanding love for cancer research,” says Bentley. As the lead on the zebrafish studies, Bentley designed and performed experiments, analyzed data, wrote the papers, and presented the research at conferences. Dr. Jennifer Corcoran and her team have identi¿ed the gene in herpesvirus-8 that can cause “Being able to do clinically virus-induced cancers. relevant research using a zebrafish xenotransplantation model is exciting, There are eight known human herpes viruses, all capable of establishing life-long infection. and this new model presents a number of The most recently discovered of these viruses, herpesvirus-8, is the cause of several AIDS- opportunities. I was able to evaluate the related cancers—including a form of skin cancer known as Kaposi’s sarcoma. sensitivity of T-ALL cell lines and patient Herpesvirus-8 targets cells that line the surface of blood and lymphatic vessels. The virus samples from children, all in a clinically reprograms these cells, giving them instructions to grow, form new vessels, and inflame actionable timeframe.” surrounding tissues. These changes in the cells can lead to malignancies. Bentley says she hopes the research Dr. Jennifer Corcoran’s laboratory at Dalhousie Medical School has identified the gene in will improve treatments for patients with herpesvirus-8 that plays a key role in altering the healthy make-up of blood and lymph cells. leukemia and improve the safety of widely It’s called Kaposin B. used therapies like doxorubicin. And while “We’re looking at how viral genes, such as those found in herpesvirus-8, contribute to these studies focus on childhood leukemia, the development of cancer,” says Dr. Corcoran, assistant professor in the Departments of she says the research is an important step Microbiology & Immunology and Surgery. towards better, less harmful therapies for “We’ve found that inside the cell, Kaposin B targets a control switch that’s normally only patients being treated for a wide range of activated when the cell senses a threat, and then quickly turned off when the threat is cancers. averted,” explains Dr. Corcoran. “Kaposin B appears to jam this switch in the ‘on’ position, “This research provides a compelling causing dramatic and sustained changes in cell behaviour.” rationale for the use of the zebrafish xenotransplantation model. This is HOPE FOR VIRUS-CAUSED CANCERS impossible just using cell-based approaches, It’s estimated that 15 to 20 per cent of cancers are caused by viruses. Dr. Corcoran’s discovery and is much faster than mouse models.” points to potential new treatments for these cancers; some may even be able to be prevented. As a medical student at Dalhousie, “The research is telling us that Kaposin B is a very unique kind of viral cancer-causing gene, Bentley will be continuing with the studies very different than others we have studied before,” says Dr. Corcoran. “Understanding how this through the school’s Research in Medicine gene works has already revealed some opportunities for using drugs to reverse its effects. And (RIM) program. if we target the Kaposin B protein—or use molecules that target and limit the changes Kaposin “I’ll be back in the lab during the summer B causes to the blood and lymphatic system—we could potentially limit cancer development.” as part of the RIM program, using the Inflammation has long been associated with the growth of cancer. The Dalhousie research zebrafish to look at novel therapeutics for team is hoping its work on the Kaposin B study will lead to better understanding of that link, T-ALL. I feel very fortunate to have this too. opportunity and am looking forward to a “By looking at the function of Kaposin B, we are also learning new molecular details busy and rewarding summer.” about the relationship between inflammation and cancer,” says Dr. Corcoran. “Our findings may ultimately have implications for the treatment of other cancers that have a strong inflammatory component.” Dr. Corcoran’s study was recently published in PLoS Pathogens, the leading journal in the field of infectious pathologies, including virus-induced cancer.

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 13 FACULTY OF MEDICINE

more serious cases, and will also allow us to Fatty liver disease: a silent monitor how the fat in their livers changes as they go through treatment.” epidemic MULTI-DISCIPLINARY TREATMENT APPROACH By Melanie Jollymore Fortunately, liver cells can regenerate themselves, so fatty liver disease is reversible through lifestyle changes, if it Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is now the most common form has not progressed too far. Once the liver of liver disease in Canada and part of a larger liver-disease is heavily scarred, however, it is less likely to heal itself. Five to 10 per cent weight epidemic. According to the Canadian Liver Foundation, deaths loss can halt or at least slow down the from all forms of liver disease rose by an astounding 30 per progression to fatal liver disease. cent in eight years prior to the 2013 release of its report, Liver “People with fatty livers need to control their blood sugar and lose weight,” says Disease in Canada: A Crisis in the Making. Three Dalhousie Dr. Peltekian. “It is not always easy, as a clinician scientists—hepatologist Dr. Kevork Peltekian (PGM’93), physician, to talk to patients about their radiologist Dr. Sharon Clarke (PGM’11), and transplant surgeon weight, but I do find it is not as difficult to talk to them about fat in the liver. People are Dr. Ian Alwayn—are tackling the fatty liver epidemic. often shocked to learn that their liver is at risk.” Due to the large number of referrals for Fatty liver disease is exacting an enormous Department of Radiology who completed fatty liver, Dr. Peltekian directs patients toll in Atlantic Canada, due to the region’s her residency at Dal in 2011. “For most to a new program, the Fatty Liver Forum, high rates of obesity. “It’s a triple whammy,” people, the condition can be reversed before that he and his colleagues in hepatology, says Dr. Kevork Peltekian, hepatologist permanent damage is done, but for others nursing, nutrition, and exercise science and head of Dalhousie’s Division of the liver is already inflamed and they’re at have developed to help patients reverse or Digestive Care & Endoscopy, “because often risk of potentially fatal liver disease.” manage their fatty liver disease. The Fatty people with obesity also have diabetes, A liver biopsy is currently the only way to Liver Forum is a three-hour group session cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver confirm steatohepatitis. But with such high led by the team of professionals, where disease.” numbers of people having fatty livers, to do patients gain in-depth information about the According to Dr. Peltekian, 25 to 40 per biopsies on all of them would overwhelm disease and how they can stop or reverse it. cent of the region’s adult population has the healthcare system. That’s why Dr. Clarke “We believe the Fatty Liver Forum will fatty liver to some degree, while about five is working with Dalhousie Department of achieve better results for patients, with far per cent of adults have fatty livers that have Radiology colleague Dr. Steven Beyea and his more efficient use of limited healthcare progressed to the point of inflammation, team at BIOTIC (Biomedical Translational resources,” Dr. Peltekian says. “If patients known as steatohepatitis. These people Imaging Centre) to develop new MRI have not met their weight-loss target after face an extremely high risk of developing algorithms. These will reveal much more nine months, then we proceed to liver biopsy advanced liver disease, including fibrosis, information about fatty livers than current and work with them more intensively. Our cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure. MRI technologies can, offering a faster, less- goal is to prevent fatty liver disease from “Fatty liver has surpassed alcohol as expensive, and less-invasive alternative to advancing to liver failure.” the leading cause of liver disease,” says biopsy. The new technologies are part of a Dr. Peltekian, “but it’s still largely a silent $7.6 million technology-development project THE DOUBLE-TROUBLE epidemic, because there are usually no funded by ACOA’s Atlantic Innovation Fund, TRANSPLANT CHALLENGE symptoms until the damage is beyond the Nova Scotia Health Authority, and a repair.” corporate partner. If a person’s fatty liver disease should “The new algorithms will enable us to progress to liver failure, the only treatment evaluate the stiffness of the liver, as well as is liver transplant. Here fatty liver disease A CHANCE DIAGNOSIS to see how much and what kinds of fat are presents a double challenge—while demand In the absence of symptoms, fatty liver present, so we can more accurately predict for donor livers is rising with the increasing is most often identified by chance, if a person is at risk of serious liver disease, rates of fatty liver disease, the number of when people are having ultrasound or without a biopsy,” says Dr. Clarke. “These healthy donor livers is declining as more MRI investigations for another reason. are the people who require the most urgent potential donors are also affected by fatty Radiologist Dr. Sharon Clarke sees this every attention.” liver. day. Dr. Peltekian is delighted his colleagues “More patients with end-stage liver “Some days, as many as a third of the are developing new non-invasive methods failure are dying while waiting for a donor ultrasound, CT, and MRI scans we do at the of identifying fatty liver disease. “We have liver, because more and more of the livers QEII Health Sciences Centre reveal some an urgent need for better diagnostic tools,” that come available are too fatty to be degree of excess fat in the liver,” says Dr. he says. “The new MRI technologies will viable for transplant,” says Dalhousie Clarke, an assistant professor in Dalhousie’s streamline access to care for people with surgery professor Dr. Ian Alwayn, who is

14 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca FACULTY OF MEDICINE also the QEII Foundation Endowed Chair OUT OF THE SHADOWS in Transplantation Research and head of While fatty liver disease is clearly an the Multi-Organ Transplant Program at the enormous and growing problem, it is QEII. “Fatty livers don’t function well after not widely recognized or understood. transplant, so we often can’t use these This is partly because of the lack of early organs.” symptoms, but it also due to a lingering Dr. Alwayn and his research team are sense of shame. looking for ways to make more fatty livers “There is a stigma around liver disease, more suitable for transplant. They’ve because it has so long been associated with invented a new technology that allows them alcohol abuse,” Dr. Peltekian says. “We need Second-year medical student Melissa to infiltrate the liver with protective agents, to shed light on the many causes of liver Wallace (MD’17) tests an experimental so it can better withstand the ischemic disease and help people understand how system to de-fat fatty livers. re-perfusion injuries that take place during important it is to get to a healthy weight to the transplant process. “If we can protect reverse or avoid fatty liver disease. It’s not fatty livers from these injuries, we will easy but it can be done!” be able to use a lot of organs that would Beyond the efforts of health professionals otherwise not be suitable for transplant,” Dr. and patients, the Canadian Liver Foundation Alwayn says. is calling for a national liver-disease strategy, Dr. Alwayn is also exploring the possibility to address all forms of liver disease on of de-fatting fatty livers prior to transplant, many fronts. As it states in its Liver Disease with Dalhousie lipid scientist Dr. Neale in Canada report, if policymakers, care Ridgway. They’re co-supervising second-year providers, and stakeholders fail to come Authority Photos:Nova Scotia Health medical student Melissa Wallace (MD’17) on together to launch such a strategy, “liver Dr. Ian Alwayn, professor in the Department a project to see if their experimental system disease will continue to strike from the of Surgery and QEII Foundation Endowed for metabolizing fat in the donor liver prior Chair in Transplantation Research. shadows taking lives and exacting a high toll to transplant can help the organ function on the nation’s healthcare systems.” well after transplant.

The Legacy EffectJock and Janet Murray

Universities are incredibly important. ‘‘ They are agents of social change and need to be supported. It’s up to us to do something, and there are so many ways to contribute. We have a vision for how we want to make a difference. Our bequest to Dal will see it fulfilled.”

Thinking of including Dal Medical School in your estate plan? We can help. Explore the possibilities at dal.ca/plannedgiving or get in touch with Ann Vessey at 902-494-6565 [email protected]

Visit dal.ca/murray to get the Murrays’Murray’s story.

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 15 FACULTY OF MEDICINE Dal leads international study looking at inÀammation’s role in arthritis and heart failure

By Allison Gerrard

fluids and blood samples from these different patients, scientists will be able to see what’s going on inside their immune systems and how they’re responding to anti-inflammatory and immune modifying therapies. Researchers will also be looking at how other health conditions, a person’s sex, and habits such as smoking might influence the disease outcome. Combined, this information could be used to help doctors identify which patients would benefit from early treatment strategies. “Despite many treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), these are not effective in all patients and are associated with side- effects in some cases,” says Dr. John Hanly, professor and staff rheumatologist with the Departments of Medicine and Pathology at Dalhousie Medical School and Capital Health. “More effective therapies of RA will improve the quality of life for patients with Photo: Nick Pearce The Dalhousie team leading the international inÀammation study. the disease and provide economic benefits through enhanced productivity and savings in health care delivery.” Dalhousie Medical School researchers are recent heart attacks and those living with The study is funded by a $2.3 million leading an international team of physicians newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis. It’s grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health and scientists that is investigating the role known that inflammation resolves normally Research and $100,000 from The Arthritis inflammation plays in rheumatoid arthritis in a subset of these patients—either Society. Additional funding has been and heart failure. naturally or with early treatment. And in provided by a number of partners including Inflammation is a natural process that other patients, the inflammation doesn’t Dalhousie University, the Capital District normally helps fight infection and enables go away, causing further damage to their Health Authority, and the IWK Health the body’s tissue to recover from injury. bodies. Centre. But some people experience dysfunctional “Part of this study will be to review the “The Arthritis Society is excited to inflammatory responses that can lead to clinical characteristics of Nova Scotians team with CIHR to facilitate research on chronic health conditions, such as arthritis who have suffered a heart attack in the inflammation in the body and how to treat and cardiovascular disease. past 20 years,” says Dr. Jean-Francois the diseases it causes,” says Susan Tilley- “Heart failure and rheumatoid arthritis Légaré, associate professor and staff cardiac Russell, executive director of The Arthritis both involve an initial inflammatory injury. surgeon with the Department of Surgery Society’s Maritime Region. “In particular, There are many studies looking at what at Dalhousie Medical School and Capital we are pleased to be funding a portion of goes wrong in the healing process that Health. “By doing this, we hope to better this research at Dalhousie University, and follows; we’re trying to determine what goes inform the collection of samples for the celebrate the role of local researchers in right,” says Dr. Jean Marshall, professor and current study, and help doctors better this effort to pursue life-altering insights in head of the Department of Microbiology & identify the patients who are likely to heal treating inflammatory conditions.” Immunology at Dalhousie Medical School. after a heart attack and those who are “Using this information, we’ll begin to likely to suffer complications, such as the examine ways to better treat and even development of heart failure.” prevent inflammation-related heart damage, arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases. LOOKING FOR NEW THERAPIES This could involve the modified use of existing drugs or the development of new The goal of the study is to determine what ones.” the differences are between those people The Dalhousie-led group will study two who suffer from ongoing inflammation cohorts of patients: those recovering from and those who don’t. By looking at joint

16 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca FACULTY OF MEDICINE Investment in Canadian knowledge of aging renewed

By Allison Gerrard

A major study that will provide in-depth understanding of aging has received a shot in the arm. The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) has been awarded a $41.6-million grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to continue its work for the next five years. The most comprehensive study of aging ever undertaken in Canada began in 2010. It’s led by researchers at Dalhousie, McMaster, and McGill universities. Dr. Susan Kirkland of Dalhousie Medical School’s Department of Community Health and Epidemiology is one of three principal investigators. “This is a landmark study that will contribute to our understanding of the aging process,” says Dr. Kirkland. “It will provide information on the ways in which we can address health outcomes that matter to people—such as maintaining quality of life and independence—as well as contribute evidence that can be used to make improvements to the healthcare system to meet the needs of this growing population.” Photo: Bruce Bottomley A hearing test is performed at Dalhousie’s CLSA site. STUDYING THE AGING PROCESS

A total of 50,000 Canadians, including 4,500 Nova Scotians, are being followed over 20 health are being collected by the CLSA team. conditions, injuries, and the health of older years. The CLSA collects information on the The final participants required to reach the veterans. changing biological, medical, psychological, 50,000 mark are now being recruited. The CLSA was launched through $50 social, environmental, and economic aspects The CLSA has operations in several million in grants. Funders include CIHR, of people’s lives as they get older. Canadian cities. Dalhousie University hosts the Canada Foundation for Innovation, Halifax-based CLSA participant Annette a data collection site and a computer- provinces, and universities—including the Leonard says that the CLSA has long-term assisted telephone interviewing centre that Nova Scotia Research and Innovation Trust benefits for Canadians as they age. interviews people across the country. and Dalhousie University—as well as other “I consider it my social responsibility to be The National Coordinating Centre and partners. part of this important study,” says Leonard. the Biorepository and Bioanalysis Centre To learn more about the CLSA, visit “In doing so, I know the data collected are based at McMaster University. The clsa-elcv.ca. will benefit my grandchild and future Statistical Analysis Centre is at McGill generations.” University, and the Genetics and Epigenetics So far, hour-long telephone interviews Centre is located at the University of British have been completed with more than Columbia. 21,000 individuals, aged 45 to 85, who were A key feature of the CLSA is that its randomly selected from across Canada. An data is available to be used by researchers additional 26,000 people have taken part in from many disciplines. Data from more extensive home-based interviews and have than 21,000 participants who took part in visited one of the 11 data collection sites to telephone interviews are now available. undergo a range of physical tests. Hearing, Already, researchers have made requests heart function, bone density, mobility, and for data to further research on topics such many other measures related to overall as caregiving, hearing loss, neurological

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 17 FACULTY OF MEDICINE How you deal with stress could be related to your genes

By Alana Milner

long duration, disabling nature, and limited forms of treatment—and they significantly impact how one handles stress. “Our bodies respond to stress using the glucocorticoid (GC) hormone, which is often used to treat a number of conditions in obstetrics and perinatal medicine,” explains Dr. Weaver, an assistant professor with the Faculties of Science and Medicine. “GCs also play an important role during fetal development, but the biology underlying their effect on genes and early brain development in the fetus is complex and we are only beginning to understand these processes.” Dr. Weaver and his research team will examine and manipulate cells from mice that have been exposed to increased levels of GCs to see how they function at several stages of cell development, including in vitro, in vivo, and adulthood stages, explains Dr. Weaver. Findings from this research will help determine how exposure to GCs affects psychological and neurodevelopmental outcomes, and how these outcomes can be treated.

STRESS DURING PREGNANCY AND MATERNAL CARE AFTER BIRTH

Existing research has shown that some mothers who suffer from high levels of stress during pregnancy do not provide as

Photo: Bruce Bottomley much physical and emotional care to their Dr. Ian Weaver and a colleague. child after birth. This low level of care often translates to the child’s ability to manage stress once older. Many people are no stranger to stress, but THE EFFECT ON FETAL BRAIN To further this research, the team in Dr. some are much better at handling it than DEVELOPMENT Weaver’s lab is studying mice to see how others. The ability to handle stress, as well It’s not uncommon for mothers-to-be to low levels of care (e.g., the amount of licking as health outcomes that can develop from feel stressed during pregnancy. However, offspring receive from their mother after exposure to stress, are often passed down severe maternal stress can increase the birth) impacts the offspring’s ability to through generations. risk of a child developing a range of altered handle stress. By looking at genes and their relation psychological and neurodevelopmental “Research shows that mice who received to maternal stress during pregnancy and outcomes, such as learning and behavioural low levels of licking after birth due to maternal care after birth, Dr. Ian Weaver disorders (e.g., ADHD), anxiety and stress experienced by the mothers during is hoping to learn more about why some depression, and impaired cognitive pregnancy were less able to cope with individuals develop more stress-related development. These health outcomes stressful situations later in life,” explains Dr. health conditions and how those conditions are some of the most burdensome for Weaver, “while mice who received high levels can be prevented. individuals, families, and society due to their of licking when young showed higher levels

18 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca of GCs and were more likely to manage stress later in life.” How one manages stress and health outcomes of stress can be passed down from generation to generation through gene mutations and the inheritance of other (epi- genetic) factors that act as switches to turn genes off and on. “We will be looking at how gene mutations and epigenetic mechanisms allow stress genetics and behaviours to be passed down and how they could be reversed,” says Dr. Weaver. “There are a few possibilities to BLUTEAU WEALTH how this could be done, such as continuing DEVENNEY MANAGEMENT CASELEY GROUP our research of GCs, diets (more greens), and Perspective Relationships Results the level of care given by mothers directly after birth.”

SUPPORT FROM CANADA FOUNDATION FOR INNOVATION (CFI)

Dr. Weaver is among eight researchers at Dal to receive a Canada Foundation for Where Jewellery Becomes Art Innovation (CFI) John R. Evans Leadership Fund award. This funding supports the infrastructure necessary for researchers like Dr. Weaver to explore and discover. By translating the results from mice to humans, research findings from Dr. Weaver and his team could lead to effective therapies for chronic stress-related illnesses, resulting in a higher quality of life for Canadians.

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alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 19 CONVOCATION 2015

CONGRATULATIONS, MD CLASS OF 2015! Welcome to the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association

DMAA GOLD AND SILVER D AWARDS

The Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association is proud to continue the long- standing tradition of our Gold and Silver D Awards. Awarded since early in the medical school’s history, the Gold and Silver Ds are considered one of the highest honours upon graduation. Not only do they acknowledge the commitment shown by our medical students, but they also celebrate well- rounded scholarship. The Dalhousie Medical Students’ Society selects students who consistently demonstrate class spirit, leadership skills, and participation in the student society, sports, or other university endeavours. These new alumni have demonstrated leadership qualities that will serve Dalhousie Medical School well in the future.

Back row: Drs. Luke Richardson (Gold D), Peter Bettle (Silver D), Joe Sadek (Silver D), and Dustin Conrad (Silver D). Middle row: Drs. Rachel Doucette (Silver D) and Haley Augustine (Silver D). Front row: Drs. Bob Farmer (Gold D), Laura Stymiest (Gold D), Lindsay Cherpak (Silver D), Maggie Lovett (Silver D), Matt Walker (Silver D), and Jocelyn Stairs (Silver D).

DR. C.B. STEWART GOLD MEDAL IN MEDICINE

Recipient: Dr. Ryan DeCoste

The C.B. Stewart Gold Medal in Medicine is awarded annually upon graduation to the student achieving the highest standing in the regular medical course, provided that he or she has reached the high standing set by the faculty for that purpose. This year’s medal was awarded to Dr. Ryan DeCoste. In addition to this honour, Dr. DeCoste graduated with distinction and was the recipient of five other awards: The Dr. Robert C. Dickson Prize in Medicine, the Dr. Frank G. Mack Prize, the Dr. Clara Olding Prize, the John F. Black Prize, and the Dr. R.O. Jones Prize in Psychiatry. Dr. DeCoste began his residency training in anatomical pathology at Dalhousie in July.

20 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca CONVOCATION 2015

MD CLASS 1965 SILVER SHOVEL AWARD

Recipient: Dr. Stacy Ackroyd

The MD Class of 1965 Silver Shovel Award was established in 1965 to honour a medical school professor who has shown exemplary dedication, compassion, and true commitment to medical students. The Silver Shovel Award, carved by Dr. Merv Shaw (MD’65), was made out of maple grown on the farm of Dr. James Ross (MD’51). The caduceus is made from bird’s-eye maple and the pine cone is made from pine. The recipient of the award this year is Dr. Stacy Ackroyd.

L to R: Drs. Rachelle Blackman, Luke Richardson, Stacy Ackroyd, and Bob Farmer.

MD CLASS OF 1995 RESIDENT TEACHING AWARD

Recipient: Dr. Nick Sowers

The MD Class 1995 Resident Teaching Award recognizes a resident who exhibits dedication and excellence in the teaching of undergraduate medical students. This year’s award was presented to Dr. Nick Sowers.

L to R: Drs. Nick Sowers and Luke Richardson.

HONORARY CLASSMATE

Recipient: Dr. Frank McCarthy

Each year, the graduating A TOAST TO THE CLASS OF 2015 class recognizes one person’s outstanding professionalism Each year, an alumnus/a who graduated 50 and service to their class and years prior toasts the graduating class. This names him or her their honorary year, Dr. Merv Shaw (MD’65) raised his glass classmate. This year, the title to the class of 2015 and welcomed them into was given to Dr. Frank McCarthy. the Dalhousie medical alumni family. We Dr. Rachelle Blackman accepted would like to send a sincere thank you to Dr. the award in his honour. Shaw for sharing his wisdom and kind words with the class.

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 21 CONVOCATION 2015 RECIPIENTS Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine Convocation Awards and Scholarships

The convocation awards and scholarships have significant meaning to our graduates. Dalhousie medical students represent the future of Dalhousie Medical School, and we would like to thank alumni, alumni and donor families, and friends for their continued support.

DR. C.B. STEWART UNIVERSITY MEDAL IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT AWARD IN DR. J. W. MERRITT PRIZE MEDICINE ANAESTHESIA For the highest standing in surgery in all four For the highest standing in the regular medical For outstanding capabilities in the ¿eld of years course anesthesia throughout his or her medical Awarded to: ...... Peter Leighton Awarded to: ...... Ryan DeCoste program Presented by: Janice Flemming, daughter of Dr. Presented by: Dr. Moira Stewart, daughter of Awarded to: ...... Matthew Walker John W. Merritt (MD’28) Dr. Chester B. Stewart, OC (MD’38) Presented by: Dr. Ben Schelew (MD’89), Department of Anesthesia DR. LAWRENCE MAX GREEN MEMORIAL GRADUATION WITH DISTINCTION AWARD Iain Arseneau DR. I. M. SZULER AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE For best combining compassion and clinical Rachelle Blackman IN UNDERGRADUATE INTERNAL MEDICINE competence during the clerkship in obstetrics Ryan Brennan Awarded to the fourth-year student who, during and gynecology Lindsay Cherpak their MTU rotation, best demonstrates personal Awarded to: ...... Peter Leighton Ryan DeCoste and academic Tualities exempli¿ed by Dr. Szuler Presented by: Dr. Jillian Coolen (MD’03), Kelli Flemming Awarded to: ...... Jocelyn Stairs Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Scott I. Murray Presented by: Dr. Katherine Radchuck (MD’15), Lucas Richardson daughter of Dr. Irene Szuler (PGM’79) DR. N. N. ISA ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Eileen Roach For outstanding achievement during his/her Vanessa Slayter THE BARBARA L. BLAUVELT CARDIOLOGY core rotation in the Department of Obstetrics & Jocelyn Stairs PRIZE Gynecology at the Saint John Regional Hospital Wei Yun Wang Awarded to a fourth-year student who has Awarded to: ...... Adam Parks shown the greatest interest and degree of Presented by: Dr. Jillian Coolen (MD’03), DR. LEO HOROWITZ PRIZE IN DIAGNOSTIC inclination towards the study of cardiology Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology RADIOLOGY Awarded to: ...... Joanna Slusar For demonstration of the greatest interest and Presented by: Dr. Catherine Kells (MD’84), ANDREW JAMES COWIE MD, MEMORIAL aptitude towards the study of radiology Chief, Division of Cardiology MEDAL Awarded to: ...... Ryan Blagdon For the highest standing in obstetrics and Presented by: Dr. James Clarke (MD’01), THE ALBERT A. SCHWARTZ PRIZE IN gynecology Department of Radiology ORTHOPEDICS Awarded to: ...... Lindsay Cherpak For demonstrating aptitude and excellence in Presented by: Dr. Jillian Coolen (MD’03), DR. EDWIN F. ROSS PRIZE IN PEDIATRIC orthopedics Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology SURGERY Awarded to: ...... Dan McNeil For demonstrating an aptitude and interest in Presented by: Dr. David Kirkpatrick (MD’79), DMRF DR. J. DONALD HATCHER AWARD pediatric surgical care Head, Department of Surgery FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH Awarded to: ...... Alexandra Manning For the most meritorious and signi¿cant Presented by: Dr. Sally Ross, daughter of DR. S. G. BURKE FULLERTON AWARD research project during the undergraduate Dr. Edwin F. Ross For greatest promise and potential shown for program, including summer electives family medicine in fourth year Awarded to: ...... Adam Parks DR. ROBERT F. SCHARF AWARD IN Awarded to: ...... Ryan Pawsey Presented by: Emma Hatcher Roberts, EMERGENCY MEDICINE Presented by: Dr. Greg Archibald, Head, granddaughter of Dr. J. Donald Hatcher For outstanding combination of clinical ability, Department of Family Medicine motivation, and professionalism in emergency DR. W. H. HATTIE PRIZE medicine DR. LEONARD, KAY AND SIMON LEVINE For highest standing in fourth-year medicine Awarded to: ...... Lucas Richardson SCHOLARSHIP Awarded to: ...... Lindsay Cherpak Presented by: Laurel Joudrey, daughter of For academic excellence and to the medical Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), Dr. Robert Scharf student who is pursuing studies in family Department of Medicine medicine THE EMERSON AMOS MOFFITT RESEARCH Awarded to:Jenna McNeil and Vanessa Slayter DR. GRAHAM GWYN MEMORIAL PRIZE IN PRIZE Presented by: Dr. Greg Archibald, Head, NEUROLOGY For undergraduate research in anaesthesia Department of Family Medicine For demonstrating excellence in neurology Awarded to: ...... Jaclyn DesRoches Awarded to: ...... Margaret Lovett Presented by: Dr. Romesh Shukla (PGM’78), Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), Head, Department of Anesthesia Department of Medicine

22 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca DR. J. C. WICKWIRE AWARD DR. JUAN A. EMBIL AWARD FOR RESEARCH SOCIETY FOR ACADEMIC EMERGENCY For demonstrating highest competence in IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES RESEARCH MEDICINE AWARD patient contact during the four-year program For completing the best research project in For excellence in emergency medicine Awarded to: ...... Jocelyn Stairs infectious diseases during all four years of study Awarded to: ...... James Gould Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), Awarded to: ...... Brandyn Chase Presented by: Dr. David Petrie (MD’89), Head, Department of Medicine Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), Department of Emergency Medicine Department of Medicine KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA, DR. DMRF DR. RICHARD B. GOLDBLOOM ALLAN COHEN MEMORIAL PRIZE IN DR. CARL PEARLMAN PRIZE IN UROLOGY AWARD IN PEDIATRICS NEPHROLOGY For the greatest aptitude and interest in urology For best combining medical knowledge, clinical For demonstrating the greatest aptitude in Awarded to: ...... Chelsey King skill, and sensitivity to the social and emotional clinical nephrology Presented by: Dr. David Bell (MD’84), Head, needs of children and their families Awarded to: ...... Rakesh Gupta Department of Urology Awarded to: ...... Laura Stymiest Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), Presented by: Dr. Richard Goldbloom, OC Department of Medicine DR. ROBERT & MRS. DOROTHY FORSYTHE PRIZE JAMES WALKER WOOD AWARD IN DR. JOHN M. EMBIL AWARD FOR For a strong aptitude and interest in mental MEDICINE EXCELLENCE IN CLINICAL INFECTIOUS health through clinical, research, or volunteer Awarded to a student entering a family medicine DISEASES endeavours residency program at Dalhousie with preference For recognizing the commitment and enthusiasm Awarded to: ...... Andrew Dutcher given to a student who has shown an interest in of an undergraduate medical student in the ¿eld Presented by: Dr. Pamela Forsythe (MD’78), rural family medicine of clinical infectious diseases daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Forsythe Awarded to: ...... Ryan Brennan Awarded to: ...... Brandyn Chase Presented by: Dr. Kate Wood, granddaughter of Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), DR. MABEL E. GOUDGE PRIZE Dr. James Walker Wood Department of Medicine For outstanding achievement among female medical students POULENC PRIZE IN PSYCHIATRY Awarded to: ...... Eileen Roach For the highest standing in psychiatry Presented by: Dr. John Steeves (MD’74), Awarded to: ...... Ryan Brennan Interim Associate Dean, Undergraduate Medical Presented by: Dr. Michael Teehan (PGM’84), Education Department of Psychiatry

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 23 CONVOCATION 2015 RECIPIENTS

DR. LOURDES I. EMBIL AWARD FOR MICHAEL BROTHERS PRIZE IN DR. CLARA OLDING PRIZE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH NEUROSCIENCE For the highest standing in the clinical years with Awarded for clinical research in cardiology, For demonstrating an aptitude in the area of character and previous scholarship being taken cardiovascular surgery, cardiovascular neuroscience into consideration pharmacology, physiology, or other ¿elds Awarded to: ...... Jessica Zambonin Awarded to: ...... Ryan DeCoste associated with clinical cardiology Presented by: Tommy Brothers, son of Dr. Presented by: Rebecca Hebb, great- Awarded to: ...... Christopher Green Michael Brothers (MD’80) granddaughter of Dr. Clara Olding (MD’1896) Presented by: Dr. Catherine Kells (MD’84), Chief, Division of Cardiology DR. ROBERT C. DICKSON PRIZE IN DR. JOHN F. BLACK PRIZE MEDICINE For the highest standing in surgery HUNTER HUMANITIES AWARD For highest standing in all examinations in Awarded to: ...... Ryan DeCoste For outstanding contributions in the area of medicine in all four years Presented by: Dr. David Kirkpatrick (MD’79), medical humanities and demonstrating the Awarded to: ...... Ryan DeCoste Head, Department of Surgery humanistic qualities of caring and compassion in Presented by: Dr. Simon Jackson (MD’90), the care of patients Department of Medicine DR. R. O. JONES PRIZE IN PSYCHIATRY Awarded to: ...... Marisa Webster For the highest standing in psychiatry during the Presented by: Dr. Mary Hunter (MD’57) and Dr. DR. FRANK G. MACK PRIZE entire medical program Wendy Stewart, Director, Medical Humanities For showing excellence in the care of urological Awarded to: ...... Ryan DeCoste patients Presented by: Dr. Michael Teehan (PGM’84), DR. RAM SINGARI BOODOOSINGH Awarded to: ...... Ryan DeCoste Department of Psychiatry MEMORIAL PRIZE Presented by: Dr. David Bell (MD’84), Head, For demonstrating clinical skill and a sense of Department of Urology humour that most brings “art” to the practice of medicine Awarded to: ...... Joseph Sadek Presented by: Dr. Wendy Stewart, Director, Medical Humanities

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24 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE

“We examined every step of the process and asked, ‘does it really need to be done this way?’”

Dr. Rob Liwski (MD’03)—the “ultimate” alumnus —leads the way to faster crossmatching for organ transplants

By Melanie Jollymore

Dr. Rob Liwski (MD’03) ¿rst landed in Halifax from his homeland of Poland in 1988. He grew to like it so much that he stayed in Halifax to complete every step of the 16-year education it took to become a leading hematopathologist—including a BSc in microbiology and immunology, a PhD in transplant immunology, an MD, and a residency—at Dalhousie University.

Halifax felt tiny and quaint to Dr. Liwski after the hustle and bustle of Warsaw and the sophistication of Rome. “We came to Canada by way of Italy,” he says, explaining that his family managed to escape communist Poland by obtaining passports for a vacation in Yugoslavia, then sneaking out from that country to a refugee camp in Italy. “It was hard to adjust to living in Clayton Park, at first,” he recalls with a laugh, “but by the time I was out of high school and going to Dal, I loved it.” Dr. Liwski, now a professor in the Division of Hematopathology, feels the continuity of completing all of his training in one location has been highly beneficial to his career. “Perhaps because I was in one spot the whole time, I received a lot of guidance along the way from mentors who really understood my strengths and interests,” he says. “I was able to apply my previous experience to every new challenge, to build and solidify my knowledge and my connections.” Photo: Keith Jollymore As an undergrad, Dr. Liwski worked Irene Sadek (PGM’97), head of the Division of As Dr. Liwski explains, there’s more to in Dr. Tim Lee’s lab, where he became Hematopathology, who encouraged him to organ-recipient matching than blood type. fascinated with transplant immunology pursue a residency in this field. The recipient must not be sensitized to and bench research. Instead of heading “It was the perfect fit, to apply my human leukocyte antigens, or HLA, in the straight to medical school after his BSc, as background in immunology and techniques donor organ. “Some people are sensitized he’d originally planned, he pursued a PhD like cytometry to the clinical analysis of to just a few of these antigens, others are with Dr. Lee. Over the years, he developed blood,” Dr. Liwski says. “This integration sensitized to a lot,” he says. “If a person strong connections to clinician scientists of all my experiences is what’s made it receives an organ with antigens they react to, specializing in transplant—including possible for me to lead the development of their immune system will attack the organ. cardiac surgeon Dr. Greg Hirsch and new protocols for HLA crossmatch testing to We need to avoid this by matching organs to nephrologist Dr. Ken West—who continue confirm an organ’s suitability for transplant recipients with similar HLA profiles.” to be important colleagues today. It was Dr. into the proposed recipient.” Dr. Liwski and his team have cut the time

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 25 ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE

it takes to confirm an organ match by an Preliminary organ-recipient matching with significant cost savings and, most astonishing 70 per cent. While dramatically is done by computer, but the final importantly, improvements in accuracy,” he increasing the speed of the HLA crossmatch confirmation requires donor cells to be says. “So, now we can quickly and accurately testing process, they’ve also made it more mixed with serum from a small group of confirm that the match is good, reducing the accurate, ensuring patients receive good candidate recipients. The test is a multi-step chances than an organ will be rejected and matches, in record time. Other centres process that used to involve long incubation making it easier for centres across Canada around the world are adopting the new HLA times and the painstaking pipetting and to share organs with confidence.” crossmatch protocol, dubbed HaliFAST by loading and unloading of individual test What he started with his 16 years of Dr. Liwski’s colleagues in Brazil. So far these tubes in and out of centrifuges. Dalhousie training seems to be turning include every centre in Canada, more than “We examined every step of the process into a Liwski family tradition. His two sons 40 in the U.S., and numerous centres in and asked, ‘does it really need to be done are pursuing studies at Dal—the youngest, Australia, the U.K., Brazil, Poland, Germany, this way?’” Dr. Liwski explains. “We began Chris, in science and the eldest, Dan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. running experiments to see how we could in microbiology and immunology. “I’m Dr. Liwski and his team in the QEII’s shave minutes away without compromising truly grateful for the excellent education HLA Typing Laboratory have developed the accuracy of our results.” I received at Dal,” says Dr. Liwski, “so it three new protocols to streamline the HLA As they discovered, replacing test tubes pleases me immensely that my sons are testing process, cutting a four- to five-hour and single channel pipettes with micro-titre following in my footsteps!” process down to roughly 90 minutes. “The plates and multi-channel pipettes cut a lot time savings is crucial,” he says, “because of time, as did reducing incubation times. while we’re doing the tests, the donor organ The team also optimized the numbers of is sitting on ice and the surgical team and cells, amount of serum, and concentration potential recipient are waiting to hear if the of reagents used in the test. “In the end, we organ’s a match.” achieved massive time reductions coupled

“You go with the right frame of mind that you’re not going to change the world on these trips, but you’re going to hopefully make a little bit of a difference.”

Healing the world Dedication to global health takes Dr. Dominic Allain (MD’03) across the country and beyond

By Nicole Tanner

When he graduated from Dalhousie Medical School in 2003, Dr. Dominic Allain had two passions: pediatrics and global health. The former has led to a career in pediatric emergency medicine. Currently a full-time pediatric emergency medicine doctor at the IWK and an associate professor at Dalhousie Medical School, Dr. Allain was previously a pediatric emergency physician at the Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton, Alta., and held an associate professor position in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Alberta. For the past few years, he has been involved with the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS), and is ¿nishing his second term as president of the Paediatric Emergency Medicine Section of the CPS. His latter interest in global health has taken him all over the world, including the Philippines, Uganda, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Ecuador.

26 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE

When he was a pediatric resident in was well-known in the community and had Edmonton, Dr. Allain took advantage of every strong links with local governments and non- opportunity to work internationally, even governmental organizations.” for just a few weeks or a month of elective Dr. Allain and his team dealt with a large time. One of the many places he volunteered number of medical and surgical emergencies was Haiti. The first time he was in Haiti was and performed around-the-clock orthopedic during a malnutrition crisis in 2008. “They surgeries on victims of the earthquake. One have hurricanes and disasters on a regular area they focused on was Cité Soleil, one basis,” he says. “The situation was very of the poorest and most violent areas of difficult as they had back-to-back hurricanes Port-au-Prince. Because of the dangers in and farmers lost their crops. There were high the area, volunteers had to take precautions rates of malnutrition—often higher than the that they weren’t used to in their home stats show because kids from remote and countries. “There were a lot of kidnappings isolated areas often aren’t counted.” and gang activity in that area prior to the Dr. Allain and his team helped identify earthquake,” he says. “We had strict security malnourished children and took them to guidelines. We couldn’t leave the hospital hospitals. Many of these children were in after the sun went down. But it was all part very remote areas, and it sometimes took of the experience.” From a young age, Dr. Allain was interested more than a day to reach the hospital. Once Recently named president-elect of the in human rights and experiencing other they reached the hospital, it would take CPS Global Child and Youth Section, Dr. cultures. During his undergraduate studies weeks to see improvement. However, Dr. Allain looks forward to becoming more in Ottawa, he was involved with a few groups Allain counts this as one of his proudest involved with some of the global health on campus that sparked his interest, and moments in his career. “It was very fulfilling projects available through local hospitals before he started medical school in 1999 he to see their improvement,” he says, “but it and at Dalhousie. In Edmonton, he was volunteered in Guatemala, a trip he says was difficult to see the malnutrition rates assistant director and later acting director motivated him. and the extreme poverty in the first place.” of the Global Health Office at the University “I volunteered and learned Spanish,” Another life-changing experience also of Alberta, and he hopes to collaborate with he says. “I was able to help out with a occurred in Haiti, this time after the the Global Health Office at Dalhousie. few medical teams and translated, and I devastating 2010 earthquake. Médecins du “In Edmonton, I coordinated several was able to see how things worked.” One Monde (MdM) contacted Dr. Allain after the projects, helped establish new partnerships experience led to another, and his interest in quake, and he went back to Haiti with a team in various countries, and helped prepare global health grew. While in medical school, of doctors and nurses. “The earthquake was students and residents for international he travelled to Latin America and Cuba, quite traumatic. There were several thousand work,” he says. “I hope to get involved in and he also became involved with the Nova deaths,” he says. “It was traumatic physically some of that work here but at different Scotia Gambia Association. In his second and psychologically on the local population.” levels over the next few years. There is a year of medical school, he volunteered in the It was also a learning experience that, very big need in developing countries for a Gambia, an experience that had a significant according to Dr. Allain, taught the importance lot of things, from an education perspective, impact on him. of coordination, communication, and and there is a definite need in the cities, “I won’t forget that experience,” he says. “I cooperation with the local population. “It’s universities, and teaching hospitals to tell students and residents that it’s great to important to be flexible as a medical team, develop more training programs, like get this early experience, even if you aren’t and adapt to the local realities, especially in residencies. That is something I’d like to a fully trained physician yet. If you have the a disaster situation” he says. “Luckily, MdM continue to be involved with.” right setting and a safe place, and a great preceptor or mentor there that can help guide you, you can experience a different culture and what it means to provide health care in that kind of setting. You go with the right frame of mind that you’re not going to change the world on these trips, but you’re going to hopefully make a little bit of a difference. You’ll learn what your limitations are and how to make the best of a potentially difficult situation.” However, it isn’t always necessary to look internationally to help underserved communities. Around the same time as his trip to Gambia, Dr. Allain also had a chance to work in Eskasoni, N.S., a Mi’kmaq community in Cape Breton. “The community was doing well, but it had some challenges,” he says. “It was a rich experience. My work in the Gambia and Eskasoni led me to be Dr. Allain in Haiti with young patients and their families during a malnutrition crisis that affected involved in this field.” the southern part of the country.

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 27 ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE

“Many men I see are meeting with a psychiatrist for the first time, and the gender stereotype of ‘being strong and silent’ holds true and likely has delayed appropriate care.”

Searching for Waldo While completing his residency, psychiatrist Dr. Andrew Howlett (MD’07) was inspired to develop the best mental health care for fathers who suffer from mental illness

“Where’s Waldo?” This was a question fathers who had mental illness during and mental health and established the Fathers’ Dr. Andrew Howlett (MD’07) asked himself as after their partners’ pregnancies were at Mental Health Network, a collaboration he was finishing his residency in psychiatry greater risk of having children with mental of researchers focused on this topic. Over at the University of Toronto. While working health problems all the way up to age seven. the last two years, Dr. Howlett has initiated with children and their families, he began to Studies have also shown that the period and collaborated on a number of research notice the absence of fathers participating during and after pregnancy is one of the projects, including screening expectant in their children’s mental health care. Upon most vulnerable times for men to develop a fathers for depression and hazardous further research, it was clear that there mental illness, much like it is for women. drinking, as well as a partnership with are many barriers that prevent fathers As Dr. Howlett transitioned from residency researchers at McGill and their development from participating, including the limited to practice, he looked for opportunities to of an online intervention that aims to build ways healthcare systems and professionals advance the way we deliver care to fathers. mental health resiliency in at-risk fathers. engage men. From here, Dr. Howlett began In 2013 a Canadian Institute of Health In 2014, Dr. Howlett established Canada’s to inquire about the relationship between Research Planning Grant was awarded first Fathers’ Mental Health Program at mental illness and fatherhood and how one to Dr. Howlett and his colleagues who St. Joseph’s Health Centre, a community affects the other. Studies have shown that hosted a research meeting on fathers’ hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto. This clinical service was designed exclusively for expecting, new, and experienced fathers with mental health problems. “It is a very new and exciting area in psychiatry. Many men I see are meeting with a psychiatrist for the first time, and the gender stereotype of ‘being strong and silent’ holds true and likely has delayed appropriate care,” says Dr. Howlett. Over the course of one year, Dr. Howlett has treated many patients, including those suffering from mood disorders, alcohol use disorders, anxiety disorders, and late pregnancy loss bereavement. “Not surprisingly, men suffer from one of the many conditions women may experience during this transitional period. I think they find relief in having specific mental-health treatment and support, especially with a focus on enhancing fatherhood.” One important factor determining the mental health and wellness of a new family is the quality of the couple’s partnership to each other and their effectiveness as co-parents. “As a physician assessing patients during the perinatal period, it

28 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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is important to understand the patient’s as a health care provider up to that point. relationship and discuss ways to improve The decision to pursue psychiatry became it. Depression in mothers is also the biggest natural after that.” risk factor for depression in fathers; Dr. Howlett grew up in Lower Sackville, therefore, it is not uncommon to find N.S., and currently lives in Toronto with his situations with two depressed parents.” wife and son. He credits many Dalhousie Moving forward, Dr. Howlett will be looking professors for helping shape his career for opportunities to develop services for the and teaching him the importance of whole couple. He will be joining the Perinatal professionalism, compassion, innovation, Mental Health Program at Mount Sinai humility, advocacy, medical humanities, Hospital in the summer 2015 to expand his and those who inspired him to work with services to two sites. children and families. “The advancement Dr. Howlett is passionate about this new in men’s mental health is going to require field of study and what it can potentially advocacy, education, and innovation. I offer to the long-term health of families. He have many to thank at Dalhousie for such recalls vividly the family in his clinic that inspiration and tools for success,” he says. made him wonder, “Where’s Waldo?” and his Dr. Howlett hopes that the Fathers’ Mental many failed attempts to engage this father Health initiative will be one of many new during that particular rotation. “It seems as ways the healthcare system can further though it is always a patient encounter that engage men. has shifted my career in medicine,” says Dr. Howlett. During his emergency medicine rotation at Dalhousie, he met a patient who To ¿nd out more about the Fathers’ Mental was feeling suicidal, and after a complicated, Health Project, visit fathersmentalhealth.com emotional, and therapeutic intervention the or follow @dadmentalhealth on Twitter. patient expressed gratitude and committed to ongoing psychiatric care. “I had never felt more nervous and yet more effective

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 29 DMAA ALUMNI AWARDS

“I learned during my student days at Dal … that it takes a team to change what is today to what it should be tomorrow.”

Alumnus of the Year Dr. Meng Tan (MD’69) Courtesy of the University Michigan

For more than four decades, Dr. Meng Tan laude in 1969. After his internal medicine chairman of the International Diabetes (MD’69) has devoted himself with single- residency at Dal, he followed his mentor’s Foundation’s first Task Force on Insulin,” he minded determination to improving the advice to become a research fellow at Joslin says. “Insulin, essential for managing type 1 lives of people with diabetes, as a clinician, Diabetes Center at Harvard University in diabetes, is not accessible in many nations. researcher, educator, and advocate. Pursuit Boston, Mass., after which he completed a We defined the magnitude of the problem of this goal has taken him to many countries, postdoctoral fellowship in lipid disorders and worked with governments, local diabetes where his efforts have put lifesaving insulin at the Cardiovascular Research Institute associations, and insulin manufacturers to into the hands of people who otherwise at the University of California in San get insulin to those who needed it.” lacked access, established guidelines and Francisco. Upon returning to Dalhousie From 1999 to 2007, Dr. Tan worked with Eli education programs to support the effective Medical School, he held a series of academic, Lilly as a medical director and distinguished management of diabetes, and helped administrative, and clinical appointments medical fellow, a role that saw him involved introduce new ground-breaking drugs. over 20 years, including head of the Division in worldwide clinical trials. At Lilly, Dr. Tan Dr. Tan had watched his mother coping of Endocrinology & Metabolism. initiated the Dollar a Day campaign as a with diabetes—testing for glucose in Even though he has lectured around the means for the company’s employees to her urine to decide on her next insulin world, been involved in multinational clinical contribute to the International Diabetes dose, while sterilizing her glass syringe in trials, published more than 180 peer-reviewed Foundation’s Life for a Child with Diabetes boiling water. Observing her daily struggle papers, chaired countless committees, and program. The campaign raised thousands stimulated his desire to help people with received many awards, when asked about of dollars for insulin and diabetes clinics diabetes, a disease that affects millions. his career’s highlights and achievements, Dr. in many countries, including India, Congo, From his high school days, Dr. Tan knew he Tan humbly says, “It was a true privilege to Rwanda, and Tanzania. wanted to be a clinician-scientist to uncover care for patients with diabetes when I was in Closer to home and earlier in his career, new medical knowledge. “I was hoping for a Halifax, and to be involved in setting up the Dr. Tan was founding editor of Canadian scholarship and was fortunate to be offered a Diabetes Care Program of Nova Scotia in 1991 Diabetes, which kept Canadian family doctors Colombo Plan scholarship to study medicine … I treasure that.” informed about developments in diabetes for in Canada,” recalls Dr. Tan, who grew up in Much as he loves looking after individual more than two decades. As president of the Malaysia. patients, Dr. Tan has always sought to Canadian Diabetes Association, he worked Dr. Tan landed in Halifax in 1962 to transform the lives of people with diabetes with the association’s London and District begin his science degree at Dalhousie and by tackling the disease on a larger scale. The Branch to create the Flame of Hope, which graduated from the medical school cum opportunity came in 1991 when, as chair was lit by the Queen Mother on July 9, 1989. of the Canadian Diabetes Advisory Board, This will continue to burn outside the home he led the expert panel that developed of insulin co-discoverer Sir Frederick Banting Canada’s first clinical practice guidelines until a cure for diabetes is found. for the management of diabetes. He later Even though he is now semi-retired and helped Singapore colleagues set up their first enjoys spending time with his grandchildren, clinical practice guidelines and implemented Dr. Tan continues to see patients with diabetes management programs in several endocrinology fellows and is involved in other Asian countries. As consultant to National Institutes of Health-sponsored Project HOPE, he was involved in assessing research at the University of Michigan in Ann needs for diabetes care and setting up the Arbor. He is also inaugural editor-in-chief of China Diabetes Education Program, which Clinical Diabetes & Endocrinology, a new peer- has trained thousands of providers and reviewed, open-access journal. Photo: Steven Parry Donald patients over a decade. Dr. Tan receiving a fellowship from the Access to insulin is another cause close president of the Royal College of Physicians to Dr. Tan’s heart. “I was fortunate to be continued on page 32 of Edinburgh in 2004.

30 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca Help support Dalhousie Medical School through the Dalhousie Fund. Your support is vital to the DMAA’s ability to provide for important initiatives like entrance scholarships, convocation awards, resident research prizes, and support for student projects.

Please support the Dalhousie Fund by making a gift online at giving.dal.ca or by calling 1-800-565-9969.

ALUMNI SUPPORT MAKES IT POSSIBLE DMAA ALUMNI AWARDS

Throughout his career, Dr. Tan has held to the belief that more can be accomplished when people work in partnerships. “I learned during my student days at Dal, as president of the Dalhousie Medical Students’ Society, among other activities, that it takes a team to change what is today to what it should be tomorrow.” It also takes leaders, and Dr. Tan has proven to be an exemplary leader in every sense of the word, educating and inspiring others to take action, while working tirelessly himself, to effect transformational change. —MJ

Project HOPE’s China Diabetes Education Program (1998).

“My life and career as a doctor has been so exciting and fulfilling. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Honorary President Dr. Ivan Woolfrey (MD’65)

Dr. Ivan Woolfrey’s (MD’65) extraordinary Jeep while the doctor delivered babies and 50-year medical career has taken him all stitched up wounds, his time with the doctor the way from the tiny outport of Botwood inspired him to pursue medicine. At the age to the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and of 17, he boarded a ferry and headed to Nova from Antarctica to Trout Lake in Canada’s Scotia, where he completed a science degree Far North. Even his earliest introduction at Acadia University in 1960 and a medical to medicine as a teenager, accompanying degree at Dalhousie in 1965. But there was the new Irish doctor on house calls around never any question in Dr. Woolfrey’s mind his hometown of Lewisporte, N.L., was an that he would return to Newfoundland. “I’m a adventure. real Newfie,” he says. “This doctor would do house calls in an Dr. Woolfrey’s first posting was at a army Jeep,” recalls Dr. Woolfrey. “He had a 20-bed “cottage hospital” in Botwood, a toboggan strapped underneath, so if the remote seaport on the north coast of central Dr. Woolfrey enjoying the great outdoors. “I snow was too deep, it could just slide along.” Newfoundland. “It was a pretty exciting time, was never one who could be happy sitting at While Dr. Woolfrey mostly waited in the with situations you’d never dream of in your a desk,” he says.

32 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca DMAA ALUMNI AWARDS

training,” says Dr. Woolfrey. He and the one or two nurses on staff had to make do with minimal equipment and a small selection of medicines. “We dealt with lost limbs, fractures, breech births, dental extractions, everything. People even brought their dogs and cats to us.” One stormy night, when roads were impassable due to heavy snow, a man showed up with a horse and sleigh to fetch Dr. Woolfrey to his wife’s bedside to help her deliver her baby. On another night, parents arrived on a dog sled with their desperately ill child, who was burning with fever and smeared with goose grease. All Dr. Woolfrey could do was administer antibiotics and arrange for emergency transport, as the child was suffering from meningitis. By 1970, it was time to move with his wife, Louise, and their two young sons, to a larger centre. Dr. Woolfrey spent the next 22 years on overdrive, working 18-hour days in a private group practice in Grand Falls. In those years, he saw about 40 patients a day, delivered six to eight babies a month, oversaw the care of as many as 10 patients in hospital at any given time, took regular emergency calls, and performed minor surgeries. “I started to see the signs of Dr. Woolfrey and his wife, Louise, in the Northwest Territories in 2013. burnout in myself when I was in my early 50s,” Dr. Woolfrey says. “I met a ship’s doctor sight.” He spent many hours flying over these when my wife and I were on a cruise and it vast expanses, on his way to and from remote dawned on me, why not do the same?” communities that had no other access to Sailing the seas as ship’s doctor for care. “There were 48 people in Trout Lake, Norwegian Cruise Lines quenched Dr. and I’d see every one,” he recalls. “It’s quite a Woolfrey’s thirst for adventure for 10 years. feeling… people really need you and they are “It was like being a family doctor for a small so thankful for whatever help you can give community, but with new people coming them.” in all the time,” he says. “We saw people for Always an avid outdoorsman, Dr. Woolfrey heart attacks and injuries, delivered the even kept a trap line for rabbits on the occasional baby, and encountered diseases outskirts of one northern community. “I’d get that are rare in North America.” He was up early to check the line, and Louise would startled by a staff member’s complaint one sit in the truck and blow the horn if the day that he had lost his ear. As it turned out, hospital called,” he chuckles. “I would take the young man had dry (non-communicable) the rabbits to the local long-term care facility, leprosy. Fortunately, Dr. Woolfrey was able where the staff would cook them up for the to consult with a fellow Dalhousie medical residents. The old folks loved their wild meat.” alumnus who was practising infectious Now that he’s retired, Dr. Woolfrey has diseases medicine in B.C. about the proper more time for outdoor pursuits. He loves to treatment. By his 14th trip around Cape Horn, hunt moose and rabbits and fish for salmon however, he was ready for a change. in Newfoundland’s great rivers. “I was never Tipped off by a colleague of the urgent one who could be happy sitting at a desk,” he Dr. Woolfrey and a nurse doing house calls in need for respite medical care in Fort Simpson, says. “My life and career as a doctor has been the Northwest Territories. N.W.T., Dr. Woolfrey offered to fill in for a so exciting and fulfilling. I wouldn’t change two-month locum. He fell in love with the a thing.” North and went back every year for the next —MJ 10 years. “The North draws you in,” he explains. “Flying over the Arctic, with the light shimmering on the snow and no trace of a human, is the most pristine, awe-inspiring

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“These relationships that you build over time are what lead to the most satisfying moments.”

Family Physician of the Year Dr. Jim MacKillop (MD’81)

For Dr. Jim MacKillop (MD’81), the joy and have been enough to keep him busy, Dr. satisfaction of being a family doctor comes MacKillop couldn’t resist getting involved from getting to know his patients over the in sports medicine when the opportunity course of many years, not just as patients but to work with the Moncton Alpines Hockey also as friends, neighbours, and members of Club presented itself in 1983. “The team’s his community. doctor was going away and asked me to fill “When you’re a family physician in a in… but I ended up staying on to help,” says small community, you get to know people Dr. MacKillop, who grew up playing hockey over time and not just about their medical and has always loved the game. “I enjoyed issues; you know about their lives, and in a it so much, I went on to be team doctor for education degree from Dalhousie and had way you become part of their families,” says the Cape Breton Oilers and Cape Breton considered teaching school before I decided Dr. MacKillop, who’s been practising medicine Screaming Eagles, and only gave it up in 2010.” on medicine,” he notes. “I’ve made good use in Sydney, Cape Breton, since the early Dr. MacKillop put his organizational skills of that background over the years.” Indeed, 1980s. “I find that knowing my patients like to the test in 1987, as assistant VP of the since joining the faculty, Dr. MacKillop has this enables me to provide them with more Canada Games Medical Division. “I helped held an appointment in the Departments of proactive, holistic care.” develop the medical teams that would be Family or Emergency Medicine since 1987. On the flip side, Dr. MacKillop feels he is at the venues, and we set up a clinic at From 1997 until September 2014, he was more than “just a doctor” to his patients. the University College of Cape Breton,” he the Cape Breton site director for the family “They know me as a person; our kids grew explains. “During the games, the clinic was medicine residency training program. up together,” he says. “In many cases, people going 24/7; it was staffed all day and all night.” Last year, when he stepped down, the I looked after when they were little children The same year, Dr. MacKillop embarked residents took him by surprise by presenting are having kids of their own and I’m looking on his longstanding career as a medical him with the Jim MacKillop Preceptor of after them now. These relationships that you educator, joining Dalhousie Medical School’s build over time are what lead to the most faculty as a part-time lecturer. “I have an continued on page 37 satisfying moments.” Although he has been a family physician for many years in a group practice in Sydney, Dr. MacKillop’s medical career has taken him down many unexpected paths. “When I finished my residency at Dalhousie in 1983, I thought I would be a full-time family doctor in a typical practice,” he recalls. “I never imagined I would be involved in education and administration like I’ve been.” One of Dr. MacKillop’s earliest forays into administration happened almost by accident following his return to his hometown of Sydney in 1983. He could see right away that there was a need for more organized emergency services in the area and set to work with colleagues to develop a better system. “It took a decade,” recalls Dr. MacKillop, “but over time the service grew and evolved into a full-time, fully staffed emergency department at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.” While launching his family practice and working in the emergency department might Dr. MacKillop with residents Monica Chew, Lynn McMahon, and Jason Reynolds (MD’99).

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the Year Award, which will be presented “We need to move away from the 19th making better use of resources, by preventing every year in his honour to the preceptor century model of a physician sitting in an complications and disabilities and reducing residents feel most exemplifies excellence. “I office waiting for people to show up with the need for costly heroic measures.” was a bit overwhelmed with emotion,” says problems,” says Dr. MacKillop of health Dr. MacKillop plans to stick around to help Dr. MacKillop. “It’s the kind of gesture that service delivery. “That worked when the make that happen in Nova Scotia. “I won’t means a lot.” biggest problems were acute injuries and retire at 65,” he says. “I’m in good health, I Most recently, Dr. MacKillop has been illnesses, but now we have people with love what I do, and I have no desire to stop.” advising the Cape Breton District Health multiple, complex chronic problems that He is tapering back a little bit, to have more Authority on how best to arrange primary require a proactive, multi-disciplinary team time to spend with his wife, three grown care services, and served as VP of Medicine approach. It will take a lot of time and children, and the grandchildren who are up to the district’s transition to the Nova effort to change the service model, but it starting to arrive. “It’s pretty exciting. I’m Scotia Health Authority. will give us better health outcomes while looking forward to the next 10 years!” —MJ

“Being a child psychiatrist is the best job in the world, and I truly believe that.”

Young Alumna of the Year Dr. Alexa Bagnell (MD’97)

It says something about the dedication, drive, She knew she wanted to have that ongoing and sheer talent of Dr. Alexa Bagnell (MD’97) connection with patients that working in that, less than two decades after graduating mental health provides. “It’s a privilege when from Dalhousie Medical School, she finds someone shares their story with you,” she herself heading the Division of Child & says. “After my elective, I knew I needed a Adolescent Psychiatry at her alma mater deeper understanding of people’s stories and and leading the clinical service in child and to be part of their lives.” adolescent psychiatry at the IWK. Other mentors who’ve profoundly “I’ve been blessed with incredible mentors influenced Dr. Bagnell’s life and career throughout my career,” says Dr. Bagnell. “I include Dr. Richard Goldbloom—who she think I’ve been able to succeed in large part says has been a constant source of support because I was guided onto the path that and guidance—and Dr. Patrick McGrath, who was right for me and given great advice and showed her how much she could contribute support along the way.” to research as a clinical collaborator. treatment program into a clinical research Dr. Bagnell credits Dr. Sarah Shea (PGM’83), “Even though I started out with a research program at the IWK that’s still gathering data a professor in Dalhousie’s Department focus, once I had three children I knew being on what interventions work best. of Pediatrics, with her decision to pursue a dedicated clinician scientist wouldn’t be my One of her proudest achievements is residency training in child and adolescent career path,” she says. “But I realized I could the creation of MyHealth Magazine, a teen- psychiatry. “She could see it in me before I be a bridge between the scientists and the friendly online resource that fosters mental could see it in myself,” muses Dr. Bagnell. real-world issues.” health literacy and help-seeking behaviours “The kinds of questions I was asking told The real-world issues Dr. Bagnell deals in youth. “It’s crucial that we reach young her I would be happiest in psychiatry, so she with in the clinic and in the community people in the world where they live, in encouraged me to take an elective.” involve teens’ mental health and especially school and online,” Dr. Bagnell notes. “At the Working with children, teens, and families their struggles with anxiety. Soon after joining same time, MyHealth is collecting data that’s during her elective experience solidified the Department of Psychiatry in 2003, she set useful for schools and helping staff learn to Dr. Bagnell’s commitment to psychiatry. to work with colleagues to develop an anxiety recognize when young people need help.”

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 37 DMAA ALUMNI AWARDS

Dr. Bagnell has co-led the development of a suite of mental health education materials and speaks regularly in schools and communities about teen mental health issues and how to address them. One of her newest initiatives is a research project to develop and test an app youth can use to practice anxiety-soothing skills on their mobile devices, bringing evidence-based treatments into the youth world. She has also recently led the successful accreditation of Dalhousie’s first child and adolescent psychiatry residency program and is the current program director. In the midst of all this activity, she has written many insightful articles and book chapters for the benefit of her colleagues and up-and-coming child psychiatrists. Dr. Bagnell is involved with Let’s Talk, Bell’s multi-year charitable program dedicated to mental health. Even before she embarked on her medical training at Dal, Dr. Bagnell feels she was being subtly prepared for a career Her team in the Division of Child & her life. “Being a child psychiatrist is the best in psychiatry. After earning a BSc in biology Adolescent Psychiatry is second to none. “We job in the world, and I truly believe that,” from McGill, she went to Oxford University have such a strong, collaborative, helpful she says. “This new role has really made me to pursue a master’s degree in philosophy group,” she says. “It’s a privilege to be in a think about leadership and how to develop and psychology. “It was in philosophy that I leadership position with them.” those qualities in myself and others, and to learned to think for myself and defend my The offer to step into the role of interim think from a systems perspective about the own thinking,” she recalls. “It also taught division head came as surprise to Dr. Bagnell, services we’re providing and how we can me how to be more comfortable with but she has taken it in stride as she has make them work better.” unanswered questions… something you every other opportunity and challenge in —MJ really need in psychiatry, as there is still so much we don’t know about the brain.” Upon graduation from Dalhousie in UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS AND REUNIONS 1997, Dr. Bagnell secured an extremely rare spot (there is one opening a year) in a special child and adolescent psychiatry Is your class celebrating a Class of 1955 – 60th Reunion program at Harvard Medical School and reunion or holding an event October 16, 2015 the Massachusetts General Hospital. “I felt soon? Contact the DMAA at Pier 21 confident to get involved in research after [email protected] Halifax, N.S. that experience,” says Dr. Bagnell, “and I and we can help you get the Contact: DMAA at [email protected] or 902-494-8800 realized you don’t need to do everything well word out! yourself, you just need a good team.” Class of 1965 – 50th Reunion DMAA Awards Gala Dinner October 15-17, 2015 October 16, 2015 Halifax, N.S. Pier 21 Contact: Merv Shaw at [email protected] Halifax, N.S. Class of 1970 – 45th Reunion alumni.dal.ca/dmaagala September 10-13, 2015 Contact: DMAA at [email protected] or Delta Prince Edward 902-494-8800 Charlottetown, P.E.I. Class of 1945 – 70th Reunion Contact: Dan Reid at [email protected] October 16, 2015 Class of 1980 – 35th Reunion Pier 21 August 28-30, 2015 Halifax, N.S. The Algonquin Resort Contact: DMAA at [email protected] or St. Andrews by the Sea, N.B. 902-494-8800 Contact: Michael MacKenzie at Class of 1950 – 65th Reunion [email protected] October 16, 2015 Class of 1996 – 20th Reunion Pier 21 July 1-3, 2016 Halifax, N.S. Halifax, N.S. Contact: DMAA at [email protected] or Contact: Ratika Parkash at 902-494-8800 “It’s crucial that we reach young people in the [email protected] world where they live, in school and online.”

38 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca DMAA ALUMNI AWARDS

57th Annual Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association Awards Gala Dinner

Friday, October 16 at 6:00 p.m. Pier 21 in Halifax, N.S. Celebrate the accomplishments of four outstanding alumni:

Dr. Meng Tan (MD’69), Alumnus of the Year Dr. Ivan Woolfrey (MD’65), Honorary President Dr. Jim MacKillop (MD’81), Family Physician of the Year Dr. Alexa Bagnell (MD’97), Young Alumna of the Year

Keynote address from Dr. Thomas Marrie (MD’70)

Event proceeds benefit student projects and scholarships

Buy your tickets online now at alumni.dal.ca/dmaagala or call 902-494-8800

Full name: ______Class year: ______Guest name(s): ______MAIL OR FAX REGISTRATION Address: ______FORM TO: ______Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association ______5850 College Street, Room 1-C1 Phone: ______Email: ______PO Box 15000 ❑ I do not give consent for the above to be updated as my preferred contact information Halifax, Nova Scotia • B3H 4R2 Fax: 902-422-1324 DMAA Alumni Awards Gala Dinner Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Friday, October 16, 2015, 6 p.m. 1055 Marginal Road, Halifax, NS

Tickets: $125 Number of tickets: ______x $125 Total amount: $ ______

❑ My cheque for $ ______is enclosed (Please make cheques payable to the Dalhousie University) Please charge $ ______to my ❑ Visa ❑ MasterCard ❑ American Express Account number: ______Expiry date: ______Name on card: (Please print): ______Signature: ______

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 39 ADVERTISING

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Now 40 years after starting his own business, Williams and his team at Lincoln Construction Ltd. are known as the “Stonewall Specialists.” Their work is on exhibit around HRM and in the province. When he first started his company, he built the retaining walls in the newly developed Cole Harbour area. More work followed in Lower Sackville, Clayton Park and along the Waverley Road. Soon enough, word got out about his skill. “It snowballed from there, non-stop,” he says, adding he’s also done projects around the province, including in Truro and the Annapolis Valley. ADVERTISING ADVERTISING

“One of the main highlights of my he says, will create employment, career was the wall contract for but also leave a legacy for his young the City of Halifax that was built on grandchildren. “You better put some Dunbrack in 1997 and is still standing,” stakes in the ground for them now,” he Williams says. “ It will last another advises.” I will leave a future for them. 40 years.” I am encouraging them as they go to daycare centre and kindergarten to “Much of my work stands out in stay in school, get a good education Clayton Park, at Regatta Point in and study to become somebody. One Purcell’s Cove and the South End of day they will be able to take over the Halifax,” he says. “That professional business.” stone work was done by my company. We are the best of the best. We take pride in our work. My motto is: get it right the first time.”

Besides stonework, Lincoln Construction Ltd. also works in landscaping, cement work, foundations, excavations, minor masonry repair, asphalt paving and septic systems and water drainage.

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After 40 years, Williams still loves working with stone. “It’s in my blood,” he says. “It’s a craftsmanship but it’s also a passion.”

Four generations of the Williams family have joined the family business. Williams has hired a civil engineer and is creating a board of directors to help when he retires at 75, “the Lord willing,” he adds.

But first he has other goals, including building a business producing and cutting hardwood, as well as creating a gated community of townhouses for low-income residents in his hometown of East Preston. These new ventures, ABOVE: Stewart Williams, president. CLASS NOTES

Do you have an award or update that you would like to share with your classmates? Let us know at [email protected].

1950s College of Family Physicians in 2014. The clinic provide free foot care and footwear to award recognizes CFPC members who the homeless population of Halifax. Dr. G. Ross Langley (MD’57) received an have made an outstanding contribution honorary Doctor of Laws degree from in a specific area including patient care, Dalhousie University. The degree was 2010s community service, college activities, awarded during Dalhousie Medicine’s 2015 teaching, research, or other elements of the Dr. Leisha Hawker (MD’11) received the Dr. convocation ceremony. academic discipline of family medicine. William Grigor Award at the 2015 Doctors Nova Scotia annual conference for her work Dr. Warren Jacobs (MD’58) received the 1980s as a family physician, advocating for and 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award from the delivering quality care to her patients. Touch For Health Kinesiology Association Dr. Mary Lynch (MD’82) received the Dr. G.W. During her final year of medical school, of America for his work in teaching and Archibald Gold-headed Cane Award. This Dr. Laura Stymiest (MD’15) received the promoting applied kinesiology for over 35 award is presented each year to a physician Dr. Ron Stewart Award for Student years in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, faculty member who combines scholarly Leadership in Global Health. This award Belgium, Italy, Spain, Israel, the U.S.A., and attainments, humanism, and professional recognizes a medical, health professions, or Canada. skills, and serves as an effective role model dentistry student who has demonstrated for students in the medical humanities. leadership in global health and a 1960s Dr. Evelyn Sutton (MD’84) is the associate commitment to improving the health of Dr. Ormille Aubrey Hayne (MD’67) received dean of undergraduate medical education at marginalized communities during their time the Senior Membership Award at the 2015 Dalhousie Medical School. at Dalhousie. Doctors Nova Scotia annual conference in Dr. David Milne (MD’89) is president recognition of his years of exemplary service of Doctors Nova Scotia. Dr. Milne was to the clinical and educational practice of inaugurated during the association’s annual haematology. conference on June 6. Dr. Robert J. Williams (MD’69) was named Life Member 2014 Newfoundland and 1990s Labrador at the Memorial University Family Dr. Peter Green (MD’95) received the Medicine Education Forum. Physician Health Promotion Award at the 2015 Doctors Nova Scotia annual conference 1970s for his passionate contribution to health Dr. Carl W. Robbins (MD’70) was named Life promotion and legislation. Member 2014 Newfoundland and Labrador Dr. Mandat Maharaj (PGM’95) received the at the Memorial University Family Medicine Distinguished Service Award at the 2015 Education Forum. Doctors Nova Scotia annual conference for Dr. Allan Purdy (MD’74) received the CMA his outstanding contribution to the medical Honorary Membership Award at the 2015 profession and dedication to those in need of Doctors Nova Scotia annual conference medical help. in recognition of his dedicated service to Dr. Andrea Rideout (MD’96) is assistant dean general and neurological medicine. of admissions at Dalhousie Medical School. Dr. John Noseworthy (MD’75) received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from 2000s Dalhousie University. The degree was Dr. Ron George (MD’01), from the awarded during Dalhousie Medicine’s 2015 Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management convocation ceremony. and Perioperative Medicine, received Dr. Robert Sers (MD’76) received the Rural the Dr. John Savage Memorial Award for Physician of the Year Award at the 2015 Faculty Leadership in Global Health, which Doctors Nova Scotia annual conference for recognizes an outstanding humanitarian his dedication and outstanding contribution contribution to global health by a Dalhousie to the health of individuals, groups, and Medical School faculty member. organizations in his home community of Dr. Colin Van Zoost (MD’09), president of Antigonish. Walk in Our Shoes foot clinic, accepted the Dr. Marshall Godwin (PGM’78) received an Doctors Nova Scotia Strive Award on behalf Award of Excellence from the Newfoundland of the clinic. The $10,000 award will help the

44 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca IN MEMORIAM

The DMAA acknowledges the passing of our prestigious alumni with sincere sympathy and gratitude for their contributions to medicine. If you know of anyone to note in this section, contact the DMAA by mail or email [email protected].

Dr. Gordon MacGregor Murray (MD’44) Dr. Robert C. Shatford (MD’52) Dr. Joan Frances Cahill (MD’63) Passed away Jan 17, 2015 Passed away December 28, 2014 Passed away March 27, 2015

Dr. William S. Maddin (MD’47) Dr. R. Roy Wills (MD’53) Dr. Brian C. Hennessey (MD’64) Passed away May 21, 2015 Passed away August 2, 2014 Passed away April 13, 2014

Dr. Angus Neary (MD’48) Dr. James Donald Carson (MD’55) Dr. Martin Saltzman (MD’64) Passed away December 28, 2014 Passed away May 2008 Passed away May 21, 2015

Dr. Alvin R. Mercer (MD’49) Dr. George R. Kerr (MD’55) Dr. Hugh Miller MacSween (MD’66) Passed away July 7, 2015 Passed away July 10, 2015 Passed away April 19, 2015

Dr. Gerald May (MD’50) Dr. Robert Palmer Parkin (MD’56) Dr. Gordon MacKay Clifford (MD’70) Passed away June 7, 2015 Passed away May 17, 2015 Passed away April 22, 2015

Dr. Alvin E. C. MacRae (MD’51) Dr. G. Ross Langley (MD’57) Dr. John Bertram Jenkins (MD’72) Passed away June 15, 2015 Passed away June 19, 2015 Passed away March 6, 2014

Dr. James Purves (MD’51) Dr. George Cobb (MD’58) Dr. Yolande “Betty” Helenese (MD’73) Passed away June 14, 2015 Passed away March 20, 2015 Passed away June 5, 2015

Dr. Joseph J. Hazel (MD’52) Dr. Bo Epstein (MD’58) Dr. Saroj Ram Anand (PGM’74) Passed away November 27, 2014 Passed away March 4, 2015 Passed away November 20, 2014

Dr. Charles Henry Hines (MD’52) Dr. Mary Chisholm MacLaren (MD’58) Dr. David Salgado (MD’84) Passed away April 7, 2015 Passed away May 3, 2015 Passed away January 16, 2015

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SUMMER/FALL 2015 VOXMEDAL 45 May 2015 Honorary Degree Recipients

Each year at spring convocation, Dalhousie presents honorary Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) degrees to accomplished individuals. This year, 10 such individuals were honoured, including two Dalhousie medical alumni.

Dr. G. Ross Langley (MD’57) John H. Noseworthy, (MD’75) Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) Doctor of Laws (honoris causa)

Dr. G. Ross Langley (MD’57) was a clinician, cancer expert, teacher, Dr. John Noseworthy (MD’75) is a neurologist, researcher, administrator, and advisor to governments and institutions. He had international authority on multiple sclerosis, and holder of one of travelled to every medical school in the country on behalf of the the most prestigious health care positions in the world. He has been Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, working to president and chief executive officer of Mayo Clinic in Rochester, improve specialty medical education. As a hematologist, Dr. Langley Minnesota, since 2009. During his time as CEO, Dr. Noseworthy contributed extensively to the cancer field, caring for patients, and his team have confirmed Mayo Clinic’s standing as a trusted authoring dozens of publications, and conducting research. His resource for patients and their families and extended Mayo’s mission contributions to Dalhousie have immeasurably advanced the medical to include new ways of reaching patients and sharing expertise. profession throughout the Atlantic Provinces and Canada. He remains a professor of neurology in the Mayo Clinic College of Dr. Langley joined the Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine as a professor Medicine. in 1968 and went on to become chief of medicine at Camp Hill Dr. Noseworthy has improved the lives of countless people through Hospital and head of the Departments of Medicine at Dalhousie his multiple sclerosis research; is the author of more than 150 University and the Victoria General Hospital. He helped create the research papers, chapters, and editorials; has written several books; Robert Pope Foundation and served as a director and advisor for 20 and served as editor-in-chief for Neurology, the official journal of the years. Dalhousie’s Department of Medicine has bestowed on him the American Academy of Neurology. In 2005, Dr. Noseworthy received Merit Award and Lifetime Achievement Awards in Medical Education the DMAA Alumnus of the Year award and was awarded an Honorary and Research. In 2002, he was named DMAA Alumnus of the Year and Doctor of Science degree from Western University in 2012. He is also a was appointed emeritus professor of medicine. He was a recipient health governor of the World Economic Forum. of both the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Medal and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal. Dr. Langley passed away on Friday, June 19, 2015, in Halifax, N.S.

46 VOXMEDAL SUMMMER/FALL 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca DON’T MISS AN ISSUE

VoxMeDAL SPRING 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS SPRING 2015 alumni.medicine.dal.ca FEATURES Mailed under Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement #40601061 6 Dalhousie Medicine EDITOR New Brunswick Update Nicole Tanner CONTRIBUTORS 34 Art in medicine VoxMeDAL Cory Burris, Kelly Fenn (MD’16), Allison Gerrard, Dr. Fran I. Hamilton (MD’89), DMAA INITIATIVES Erinor Jacob, Melanie Jollymore, Boon Kek, THE VOICE OF DALHOUSIE MEDICAL ALUMNI Dr. Pamela Mansfi eld (MD’03), Ryan McNutt, 8 News & Updates Suzanne Rent, Kate Rogers, and Nicole Tanner 6 DMAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE EXECUTIVE 25 Palliative care: Supporting patients Dr. David Amirault (MD’76), President with life-limiting illnesses Dr. John Steeves (MD’74), Vice-president Dr. Michael Banks (MD’70), Treasurer 26 A random passion Dr. Dan Reid (MD’70), Past-president Dalhousie Dr. J. Stuart Soeldner (MD’59), Honorary President FACULTY OF MEDICINE MEMBERS AT LARGE Dr. Don Brown (MD’59) 10 Dalhousie announces new dean Dr. George Ferrier (MD’73) announces 11 Turning off the power Dr. Cindy Forbes (MD’85) Dr. Katherine Glazebrook (MD’94) 12 Dr. Samantha Gray (MD’07) Stopping Alzheimer’s disease in its tracks 34 new dean of Dr. Margaret Leighton (MD’77) 14 Dal-led research offers hope for Dr. Bill Mason (MD’61) Dr. Merv Shaw (MD’65) psoriasis sufferers Dr. Joanna Zed (MD’88) the Faculty 15 Department of Psychiatry celebrates 65 years EXECUTIVE EX-OFFICIO Evie Sabean Croucher, Alumni Relations Offi cer BUSINESS OF MEDICINE Dr. Thomas Marrie (MD’70), Dean, Faculty of Medicine of Medicine Russell Christie (MD’17), DMSS President 16 Three big ideas to improve health care in Canada Dr. Aisling Porter (MD’10), PARI-MP 16 Defending an essential yet fragile system Dr. David Anderson (MD’83) to Please send news, story ideas, comments, and/or address changes to: 18 Making alliances: Dr. Saini and the Lown Institute become medical school’s new dean Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association Dalhousie University 5850 College St. Rm. 1-C1 PO Box 15000 DEPARTMENTS Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Turning off the power GLOBAL HEALTH SPOTLIGHT Tel: 902-494-8800 Fax: 902-422-1324 Dal scientist fi nds drug combination that [email protected] 21 Class of ’72: Endowment fund alumni.medicine.dal.ca stops growth of breast cancer cells facebook.com/dalmedalumni 22 Goodness to go: Empowering girls in India 24 A full cup: Class of ’72 raises funds for International Health Education Endowment

Recapping WELCOME as dean 4 DMAA President’s Message 5 Dean’s Message Thomas Marrie refl ects VoxMeDAL is published twice a year on his time as dean by Metro Guide Publishing 7 Voice of Alumni Publisher: Patty Baxter 20 Farewell message: Dr. Thomas Marrie Advertising Sales: Tara Joosse refl ects on his time as dean

UPDATES 28 Gala 2014 Metro Guide Publishing 2882 Gottingen Street 30 Reunion Recaps Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 3E2 32 Tel: 902-420-9943 Fax: 902-429-9058 Alumni events and reunions [email protected] 33 Class notes metroguidepublishing.ca Dalhousie announces new 33 In memoriam dean of the Faculty of Medicine ISSN 0830-5315 (Print) (Photo: Bruce Bottomley) ISSN 2292-6348 (Online)

alumni.medicine.dal.ca SPRING 2015 VOXMEDAL 3

Current and back issues of VoxMeDAL are available online at MEDICINE.DAL.CA/VOXMEDAL

If you would like to receive VoxMeDAL online only, send an email to [email protected].

Medical Alumni Association JOIN US FOR AN EXCLUSIVE PHYSICIAN EVENT

You and a guest are invited to join CMA and MD Financial Management for an afternoon at the CMA 2015 HALIFAX 148th Annual Meeting

11:30 am – 12:15 pm: Financial Planning for Female Physicians Luncheon 12:15 pm – 2:00 pm: Exploring the Physician Role in a National Seniors Strategy 2:15 pm – 2:45 pm: NewCo* Interactive Member Panel 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Gen Y and You: What MD is Doing and What it Means for All CMA Members

A wine and cheese reception will follow. Food, gifts, prizes and more!

Sunday, August 23rd, 2015 World Trade and Convention Centre, 1800 Argyle St., Halifax

REGISTER NOW! cma.ca/halifax

*NewCo is a temporary name for the newest addition to the CMA’s family of companies. MD Financial Management provides financial products and services, the MD Family of Funds and investment counselling services through the MD Group of Companies. For a detailed list of these companies, visit md.cma.ca.