The language of medicine

Sep 6, 2019 | In Medicine, In Writing

The language of medicine can be complicated. Does it need to be this way? Several weeks ago, I began my studies for a Master’s degree in Journalism. I’m continuing to work as a physician, but for the next two years, I’ll also be gaining knowledge in an important...

Since you were eight

Jul 25, 2019 | In Writing

Last month, I took part in a team triathlon in Mont-Tremblant, Québec. My sister Katie was the runner, I was the cyclist, and Katie’s friend, Ann Marie, was the swimmer. It was early in the morning and Ann Marie started our race. While she was in the choppy water,...

Plastic Surgery and Mainstream Media

Apr 26, 2019 | In Medicine, In Writing

Be honest. What’s the first thing you think of when you hear the words ‘plastic surgery’? Breast implants? Nose jobs? Or maybe you’ll think about one of the numerous television programs out there that have featured the discipline: Nip/Tuck? Botched? Grey’s Anatomy? If...

Anatomical Position

Mar 22, 2019 | In Medicine, In Writing

How dissecting a cadaver reminded me of being alive During the first two years of medical school, many hours are spent in the anatomy lab. A protective coping mechanism when learning from cadavers is to become detached. Forgetting that they were once living human...

Understanding the Winter Blues

Feb 27, 2019 | In Writing

Canadian airline companies offer direct flights to sunnier parts of the world on a daily basis. When winter comes, what are we running from? It turns out there may be a biological explanation for our winter escapism and it begins with the brain. Winter depression is a...

From doctor to healer

Feb 19, 2019 | In Writing

When a patient goes to the doctor, they usually have a specific health problem in mind. Sometimes, the treatment is straightforward; a urinary tract infection warrants antibiotics. A laceration can be sutured. Other issues, however, are more complex. For example,...