Where did you complete your training?
I graduated from the University of Manitoba Faculty of Medicine. I went on to do Internal Medicine training at the University of British Columbia and Cardiology training at McMaster University. I had formal training in Adult Congenital Heart Disease at the University of Toronto and Echocardiography training at the Mayo Clinic. I started working in the Pacific Adult Congenital Heart (PACH) clinic in 2010 and have learned a tremendous amount from my colleagues and patients.

What is your special area of interest?
My clinical and research interests focus on looking after pregnant women with heart disease. My CHD practice is all very interesting but I have a major clinical and research interest in patients who have had a Fontan surgery.

What is the best thing about working in the Congenital Heart Disease specialty?
There are many things about this specialty that are extremely rewarding. The nature of our patient population demands a team approach, and as a result I get to work with wonderful people each with their own important skill set but with the common goal of providing excellent care to our CHD patients. Given the chronic nature of CHD, I have the opportunity to work with and get to know patients and their families really well. I have the privilege of witnessing my patients overcome many obstacles and move through the different stages of life.

What is one thing that you think that all patients with Congenital Heart Disease should know?
I think it is important to know that major progress has been made in the field of CHD and that most of our patients with CHD can and should work towards leading a “normal” life. In most cases, CHD is a chronic condition and follow up with your CHD specialist is very important.

If you weren’t a doctor, what would you be?
I can spend hours reading recipes and foodie magazines and even more time experimenting in the kitchen. I think I would be a chef in another life….or maybe this one (later).

Do you have any interesting hobbies or talents or pets?
I am lucky, because my most interesting hobby also happens to be my profession. I am married with 2 children and my family time is extremely important to me. I enjoy reading, snowboarding, kayaking and hiking.