Our CARE Pillars
Our annual report is structured around our four key CARE pillars. Click each of the buttons below to jump ahead to the corresponding section in the report.
Connection in Pediatrics
A message from our Department Head
The pace and demands of our work in medicine can pull us in many directions, constantly drawing our focus to the next task or outcome. But despite increasing patient complexity and external pressures, we remain anchored by a shared purpose and deep commitment to providing the best care possible. At the heart of everything we do – every project, every conversation, and every achievement – there is one constant: connection.
Connection is more than just communication. It’s the spark that turns ideas into action, challenges into opportunities, and individuals into teams. It’s what reminds us that we’re not alone in our efforts. That together, we can achieve more than we ever could apart.
Developing our Strategic Plan last year reignited our spirit of curiosity across the Department of Pediatrics. Over the past 12 months, we have deepened our focus on the goals and priorities identified by our members, turning ideas into meaningful progress. This year’s annual report offers a glimpse into that work, highlighting the remarkable threads of connection that run throughout pediatrics. In 2025, one of our community pediatricians, Dr. Sonia Ménard, launched an innovative educational program in which residents learn essential clinical skills through working – and connecting – with horses. Her initiative inspired this year’s theme, reminding us that connection is truly foundational to everything we do.
At the heart of everything we do – every project, every conversation, and every achievement – there is one constant: connection.
Dr. Antonia Stang
Head, Department of Pediatrics
We did not have to look far to find countless other examples of connection within our pediatric community. We are inspired by how our members continue to break down silos and collaborate in new ways – across sections, hospitals, and communities – to deliver expert, multidisciplinary care for patients and families. Our dedicated leaders continually enable others to pursue their aspirations across our four CARE pillars: Clinical service, Advocacy, Research, and Education. Our hallways are filled with advocates dedicated to improving quality and safety; mentors who devote themselves to guiding the next generation of clinicians, educators and researchers; and individuals and teams who think boldly, work creatively, and go above and beyond every single day.
We hope these stories serve as an illustration that every connection matters, and that each of us can make a meaningful difference in the lives we touch. I have included some of my favourite family photos of my children when they were younger sharing a moment of connection with my horse Euriyah as a reminder that when we take the time to truly connect – with our patients and families, our colleagues, and our communities – we create space for trust, collaboration, and continued growth. We foster opportunities to learn from one another at all stages of our careers, to support each other in the times we need it most, and celebrate each other’s wins, both big and small.
Thank you to all our Department members for everything you do and for playing such an important role in this journey we share. We are bonded through our collective purpose to improve the health and wellbeing of our young patients and their families, and I am so grateful to be walking this path alongside each and every one of you. Together, we’re creating a culture of support, collaboration and extraordinary possibility.
And that is something to celebrate.
With deepest gratitude,
Dr. Antonia Stang
Corridor Clinical Department Lead-Pediatrics
Calgary, Alberta Health Services
Academic Department Head, Pediatrics
Department of Pediatrics Strategic Plan
Click below to view our 2024-2029 Strategic Plan for the Department of Pediatrics
Our Department
Clinical Activity
Hemoglobinopathy Clinic
A One-Stop Shop for Multidisciplinary Care
The Hemoglobinopathy Clinic at the Alberta Children's Hospital was the recipient of our first-ever Department of Pediatrics Thriving Together Team Award in 2024, as well as an AHS President's Excellence Award for Outstanding Achievement in Patient- and Family-Centred Care in 2019.
By engaging and empowering those closest to patient care, we are ensuring that meaningful improvement begins where it matters most.
Dr. Jonathan Gilleland
Deputy Head, Clinical Affairs
Better Together: An Integrated Model for Complex Care in Pediatrics
Children with medical and behavioural complexity represent approximately 2% of the patient population at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, yet their needs are among the most intricate. Each of these children requires a comprehensive care plan involving a unique mix of subspecialists, allied health services, and therapies, alongside coordinated access to educational supports, funding programs and community resources.
For families, navigating these complex systems – and the many layers of support they entail – can be overwhelming, particularly when care is fragmented between hospital and community settings. Delivering optimal care for this population relies on shared responsibility, strong relationships, and seamless communication among all members of the child’s care team.
Clinical Activity
Excellence, Humanity and Heart:
Recognizing the Exceptional Leadership of Dr. Joseph Vayalumkal
One of Dr. Joseph Vayalumkal’s guiding principles is that a physician should embody Ability, Affability, and Availability – a trio he not only embraces but exemplifies daily. Those fortunate enough to work alongside him recognize how naturally and consistently he models these values. An exceptional teacher, advocate, and team player, his quiet dedication has strengthened an entire community of healthcare professionals and staff, empowering them to deliver the best possible care to the patients and families they serve.
For 17 years (2008-2025), Dr. Vayalumkal served as the steady, reassuring presence at the helm of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. During this time, he provided calm, level‑headed leadership through pandemics, epidemics, and numerous outbreaks affecting our pediatric population. Many know him as an accessible and trusted resource during times of crisis, from H1N1 to COVID‑19 and, most recently, the resurgence of measles.
ACH recognized as a Choosing Wisely Canada Hospital
In 2025, the Alberta Children’s Hospital (ACH) joined an increasing group of Canadian hospitals recognized by Choosing Wisely Canada, a national initiative aimed at reducing unnecessary tests and treatments in the delivery of patient care across the country.
Education
Connecting Authentically
With The Horse-Powered Curriculum
Horses teach us that humility is a form of strength. When we approach them with respect and openness, they respond with trust, reminding us that genuine connection is grounded in presence and authenticity rather than words.
Connection elevates our teaching, strengthens our pediatric community across disciplines, and helps shape the educators and clinicians we become.
Dr. Leanna McKenzie
Deputy Head, Education
Recognizing Educational Excellence
Dr. Erika Vorhies
Pediatric cardiologist Dr. Erika Vorhies is widely recognized within the Department of Pediatrics as an extraordinary educator and mentor, shaping the future of medicine through her dedication, curiosity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. An exceptional clinician and award‑winning teacher, she exemplifies how one individual can make a lasting difference – not only in the care of patients and families, but in how future physicians are trained, supported, and inspired throughout their careers.
Educational Activity
2025 Educator of the Month Recognition
The "Educator of the Month" is proudly highlighted monthly in our Education Weekly Bulletins. Peers are encouraged to nominate individuals who exemplify outstanding educational qualities.
January - Dr. Colleen Curtis
"Dr. Curtis is a very dedicated educator within the Department of Pediatrics. She does a large amount of behind-the-scenes work and is a very knowledgeable source and advocate of all-things medical education!”
February - Dr. Leanne Morris
"Dr. Morris is an integral and valued part of the Pediatric Residency team. She has fresh approaches to education issues and confronts problems with a thoughtful and often creative approach. Dedication to hearing residents' opinions and concerns is a hallmark of her caring deeply for them and the program's continued success.”
March - Dr. Martin Perlsteyn
“Dr. Perlsteyn has done a huge amount of behind-the-scenes educational curriculum. He has been great at responding to Proskills specific needs and furthermore, was essential in the development of the Indigenous and maltreatment sims in direct response to the program's need.”
April - Dr. Marie-Anne Brundler
“As a current trainee, I have had the opportunity to witness Dr. Brundler's passion for pathology through our academic half day lectures. While learning histopathology may be daunting, Dr. Brundler's expertise and dedication to teaching makes the process rewarding and fun for trainees and staff alike.”
May - Dr. David Patton
“Dr. Patton is a wonderful teacher. He is always going out of his way to teach residents about the complex hearts we are seeing. He is kind, patient, and creates a safe learning environment for learners!”
June - Dr. Pamela Veale
“[Dr. Veale] is the kind of knowledgeable, supportive, and experienced educator every program would love to have at its side. She is patient, thinks outside the box, persistent if she has to be, and kind and considerate to learners in distress or with outside demands they have to juggle.”
July - Dr. Raman Chawla
“[Dr. Chawla] is incredibly approachable and is frequently identified by residents as a safe person that they can talk to for career advice and mentorship on how to fully reach their potential on clinical rotations. In 2024 she was selected by the residents as ‘Mentor of the Year.’”
August - Dr. Syeda Abbas
“Dr. Abbas is such an awesome role model. She builds great rapport with patients and their families and really hears their concerns. She is super flexible to my learning goals and instills a level of confidence to try harder more complex things.”
September - Dr. Lauren Redgate
“During my time at Infinity, Dr. Redgate set aside time to do teaching at least weekly with me. She gave me the best balance between supervision and independence. I really appreciated the time and energy she gave towards my learning.”
October - Dr. Genevieve deCaen
“Dr. Gen de Caen is an incredible physician, teacher, and mentor. Dr. de Caen is brilliant, patient, and kind -- all qualities we aspire to emulate. We are grateful to learn from her excellent bedside manner and endless knowledge.”
November - Dr. Christopher Smith
“Even though Dr. Smith is a relatively new faculty member, he is highly engaged in training, always very thoughtful in his teaching, feedback and coaching of residents. He is a role model for residents.”
December - Dr. Melanie Willimann
“Dr. Willimann has been instrumental in the creation and growth of our KidSONO point-of-care ultrasound platform at ACH. Her work has had a transformative impact on PoCUS education across our department, and truly across the country. She really does exemplify the qualities of an outstanding medical educator.”
Research
Meaningful Mentorship: A Conversation on Growth and Connection
Participating in mentorship can be transformative for both mentors and mentees, enhancing personal fulfilment, building confidence, and fostering new opportunities. By investing in yourself and others, meaningful mentorship experiences help cultivate stronger, more connected communities where progress and success are shared and celebrated.
Click below for a Q&A highlighting perspectives from both sides of a longstanding, highly productive mentorship pair within the Department of Pediatrics: Dr. Deborah Dewey (mentor) and Dr. Sarah MacEachern (mentee).
Dr. Deborah Dewey
Dr. Sarah MacEachern
By uniting curiosity, compassion, and collective vision, we continue to advance pediatric care through research that not only informs but inspires.
Ashton Chugh
Research Lead
Innovation Awards
We are excited to share the results of the 2025 Department of Pediatrics Innovation Award. Applicants submitted their ideas and were invited to present to a review panel and audience.
The applications were awarded a total of $91,848.32!
The following is a list of the 11 successful applications, in alphabetical order of the project lead’s surname. Congratulations to all!
Dr. Raman Chawla “Circles of Connection: Building Trust Between Indigenous Youth and Healthcare Providers.” (Project theme – Indigenous health advocacy. Awarded $9,880).
Dr. Jennifer deBruyn “Defining Normal Ultrasound-measured Bowel Wall Thickness in Children” (Project theme – Research. Awarded $10,000).
Dr. Jonathan Guilfoyle “Are We Ready for AI Scribes in Paediatric Emergency Departments? Perspectives from Adolescents, Caregivers, and Clinicians.” (Project theme – Research. Awarded $9,968.82).
Dr. Sujith Gurram “Machine learning and visual computing for diagnosis of clinical encephalopathy” (Project theme – Clinical Improvement. Awarded $10,000).
Dr. Marina Journault “Ice Cream Rounds (Critical Incident Stress Management & Beyond)” (Project theme – Wellness. Awarded $8,779.5).
Dr. Carsten Krueger “Exploring Parental Perceptions and Concerns about Antibiotic Use and Stewardship at a Tertiary Care Children's Hospital” (Project theme – Research. Awarded $3,420).
Dr. Kara Murias “BrainSTAND: Brain Stimulation for Anxiety and Depression in youth - Extended follow-up.” (Project theme – Research. Awarded $9,900).
Dr. Phillip Quon, “Improving Pediatric Clinic Experience for Patients with Autism and/or Anxiety Through a Pre-Visit Orientation Video” (Project theme – Clinical Improvement. Awarded $3,000).
Dr. Jumana Samara “Developing a Neonatal Lung Ultrasound Simulator and Structured Training Program for Healthcare Providers in Calgary NICUs” (Project theme – Education. Awarded $10,000).
Dr. Graham Thompson “Solving the pediatric research biosample availability conundrum: Comparing OLINK¬Æ Proximity Extension Assay proteomics in residual-clinical vs research-specific plasma in febrile young infants. (The ReSolve Study)” (Project theme – Research. Awarded $10,000).
Dr. Peter Vetere “Improving Subjective Global Nutritional Assessment Completion in Pediatric Nutritional Screening Test Positive Pediatric Inpatients” (Project theme – Clinical Improvement. Awarded $6,900).
Research Activity
Wellness
Docs Who...
Docs Who... Is a series that encourages physicians to prioritize their mental and physical wellbeing by engaging in physical activities and hobbies outside of work. Through real stories from department members, we highlight the importance of balance, joy, and self-care in medicine.
Docs Who... Hoop
How does 6 AM basketball positively affect physicians? We interviewed a group of department members who have been dribbling and hooping together for many years and have turned it into a morning routine before their clinics!
Featured staff: Dr. Joseph Vayalumkal, Dr. Mark Bromley, Brett Simms & Steve Menzies
Docs Who... Nurse
Guided by nurse Taylor Phillips, watch as our very own Deputy Department Head of Clinical Affairs, Dr. Jonathan Gilleland (pediatric intensivist) takes on the role of a nurse for an entire shift at the Alberta Children's Hospital's Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for charity.
Featured staff: Dr. Tanya Drews, Taylor Phillips, & Dr. Jonathan Gilleland
By nurturing a culture where people feel recognized and cared for, we not only uplift one another; we create an environment where our best work can truly flourish, together.
Dr. Susan Kuhn
Deputy Head, Professional Affairs
The Thrive Home
The Official Podcast
The Thrive Home is a podcast where stories of growth, wellness, and connection come to life. Hosted by members of the Department of Pediatrics, this podcast explores what it means to thrive at work and at home.
Through authentic conversations with leaders, residents, and team members, we uncover the journeys, lessons, and experiences that shape pediatric healthcare. Whether you’re part of our department, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about balance in high-pressure roles, The Thrive Home invites you to listen, reflect, and be inspired.
The latest episodes
Sustaining Ourselves in Pediatrics, Part 1: Dr. Estee Grant’s Story
We sit down with Dr. Estee Grant to explore her unexpected journey from Pediatric Critical Care pivoting to Palliative Care, and how that transition led her to champion the conversation around vicarious trauma.
Sustaining Ourselves in Pediatrics, Part 2: Vicarious Trauma & Resilience
From micro‑moments between patient rooms to supportive colleagues and immersive activities outside the hospital, Dr. Grant shares her practical ways to complete stress cycles and interrupt rumination. She also speaks directly to trainees, emphasizing realistic habits, compassionate narratives, and the power of modeling healthy coping as a team.
2025 CARE & Other Departmental Awards Winners
We are pleased to announce the 2025 CARE & Other Departmental Awards Winners! Each of these department members was nominated by their peers and will be celebrated at the Department of Pediatrics Annual Celebration.
Congratulations to everyone!
CARE Award - Clinician
Dr. Adetayo Adeleye, Pediatric Respirology
Dr. Adetayo Adeleye is an inspiring clinician and exemplary leader who has excelled as Section Head for Pediatric Respirology. Widely regarded for his remarkable kindness, expertise, and dependable nature, he delivers meticulous, compassionate care to patients and families while serving as a trusted mentor to colleagues and trainees. His humble, collaborative leadership has guided the development of safe, evidence-based clinical pathways and unified multidisciplinary teams. Dr. Adeleye has led the Sleep Lab and Sleep Clinic at the Alberta Children’s Hospital for many years, expanding services for children with complex needs and reducing provincial wait times through a community pediatric sleep service. He also established a pediatric sleep medicine training program, expanding specialized expertise to further improve the quality of care for patients and families. Dr. Adeleye’s leadership strengthens morale, elevates clinical care, and delivers lasting impact across the Department of Pediatrics and beyond.
CARE Award - Advocate
Dr. Shirmee Doshi, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Dr. Shirmee Doshi is an outstanding Pediatric Emergency Medicine (PEM) physician and passionate advocate for patients and families. Recognized as a leader in education, she has made exceptional contributions across residency training, simulation, curriculum development, and educational innovation. Dr. Doshi has balanced major leadership roles, including Assistant Program Director for our Pediatric Residency Program and Competence by Design (CBD) Lead, playing a key role in its successful implementation. As Co‑Chair of the Alberta Children’s Hospital Child Death Review Committee and Patient Safety Lead for PEM, she advances shared learning, quality of care, and system improvement. Dr. Doshi is a highly respected clinician, an award‑winning mentor and teacher, and an active researcher. She is a true role model whose advocacy for patients and families advances excellence across the full continuum of pediatric care.
CARE Award - Researcher
Dr. Deborah Dewey, Child & Family Health Research Unit
Dr. Deborah Dewey is a world‑recognized leader in neurodevelopmental research and a longstanding member of the Department of Pediatrics, with an extraordinary record of scholarly excellence. An international authority in developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and developmental neurotoxicology, her work has advanced understanding of environmental influences on neurodevelopment, shaping clinical practice and inspiring policy changes across the country. She has authored over 288 peer‑reviewed publications, delivered hundreds of invited presentations, and secured nearly $35 million in research funding as a principal investigator/co‑principal investigator. A dedicated mentor and former Director of the Department of Pediatrics Behavioural Research Unit, Dr. Dewey’s exceptional leadership and scholarship have transformed pediatric neurodevelopmental research nationally and internationally, advancing care and outcomes for children worldwide.
CARE Award - Educator
Dr. Melanie Willimann, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Dr. Melanie Willimann is an exceptional Pediatric Emergency Medicine physician and national leader in pediatric point‑of‑care ultrasound (PoCUS) education. She has co‑led the development of a highly regarded PoCUS course that has trained physicians, fellows, and residents across multidisciplinary teams throughout the hospital, directly enhancing patient care. She is Co‑Director of kidSONO, an innovative, peer‑reviewed national curriculum for pediatric PoCUS that she helped design and now co-leads at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Dr. Willimann also founded a national pediatric PoCUS fellowship and resident elective, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and expanding access to high‑quality ultrasound education across Canada. In every aspect of her work, from curriculum design to mentorship and cross‑disciplinary engagement, Dr. Willimann has demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence in education.
Leadership Award
Dr. Laura Davies, Pediatric Hospital Medicine
Dr. Laura Davies is an extraordinary physician leader and long‑standing member of Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM), serving as Section Head since 2022. She has guided the Section through sustained growth, rising patient volumes, and unprecedented viral surges, advocating successfully for additional resources and strategic recruitment. Her outstanding leadership has strengthened clinical capacity, quality improvement, and system‑management expertise across the Alberta Children’s Hospital and Department of Pediatrics. Dr. Davies spearheaded the creation of an inpatient eating disorder service and expanded multidisciplinary care through the recruitment of advanced practice providers. Recently appointed President of the Canadian Paediatric Society’s Section of Hospital Pediatrics, she is now advancing the growth of PHM nationwide. A generous mentor with a growth mindset, Dr. Davies leads with integrity, compassion, and vision, leaving a lasting impact on patients, families, and the teams she supports.
Rising Star Award
Dr. Raman Chawla, Pediatric Hospital Medicine
Dr. Raman Chawla has made outstanding contributions across all four CARE pillars since joining the Department of Pediatrics in 2020. A highly respected clinician in Pediatric Hospital Medicine and Community Pediatrics, she is recognized for her advocacy, clinical excellence, and collegiality. She provides comprehensive care to underserved children at her community pediatric clinic in Siksika First Nation, promotes culturally safe Indigenous health care, and cares for children with medical complexity. An emerging researcher, she leads nationally relevant educational and clinical studies, and is the co-site lead for ROUTINE. Dr. Chawla holds many leadership positions, including Director of Resident Support with Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME), and supports learners at all levels. She is an award‑winning educator and mentor, receiving the 2024 Mentor of the Year award and Educator of the Month in 2025. Dr. Chawla is a true rising star in the Department of Pediatrics and beyond.
Distinguished Career Award
Dr. Jim Kellner, Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Dr. Jim Kellner has been a defining leader in pediatrics, renowned for his impactful research, policy influence, and clinical leadership. He began his career in pediatric emergency medicine before specializing in pediatric infectious diseases, and has led epidemiologic research and vaccine trials for more than 30 years. Dr. Kellner has established leading research teams who have contributed extensively to national and international networks. A trusted advisor on vaccine policy for decades, he also played key leadership roles during the COVID‑19 pandemic, advancing pediatric research, public education, and evidence‑based decision‑making. At every stage of his career, Dr. Kellner has taken on leadership roles locally and nationally. As Head of the Department of Pediatrics (2008–2018), he led a 75% increase in departmental membership and guided significant expansion of clinical, educational, and research services. Dr. Kellner’s remarkable career reflects an enduring commitment to scientific excellence, public service, and the health and well-being of children for generations to come.
Community Pediatrcian of the Year
Dr. Doug Yeung, Panda Pediatrics (NW Calgary) & RGH NICU
Dr. Douglas (Doug) Yeung is a dedicated community pediatrician known for providing comprehensive, compassionate, and family‑centered care. Alongside a thriving community practice at Panda Pediatrics in northwest Calgary, he makes invaluable contributions to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Rockyview General Hospital, where he is a calm, reliable presence and a trusted team member in high‑pressure settings. Dr. Yeung delivers high‑quality, evidence‑based care, skillfully supports medically fragile infants, and helps families navigate complex community resources. A humble and committed educator, he mentors learners with the utmost patience and professionalism. Guided by preventive care and multidisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Yeung is an inspiring leader in both the community and NICU, committed to fostering supportive and trusting relationships with every family he serves.
Thriving Together Team Award
Child Death Review Committee
Various Sections, Alberta Children’s Hospital
The Alberta Children’s Hospital’s Child Death Review Committee is a multidisciplinary Quality Assurance subcommittee with longstanding commitment from members across all areas of the hospital and beyond, including but not limited to: critical care, emergency medicine, hospital medicine, complex care, oncology, ASSIST, palliative care, general surgery, NICU, neurology, pathology, nursing, social work/grief support, emergency medical services, the Medical Examiner’s Office, pediatric and pediatric emergency medicine residents, and more. This committee meets monthly to review all pediatric deaths in southern Alberta, with each case independently reviewed to assess care, identify any safety or system issues, and recommend improvements. Cases with significant concerns are escalated, while trends are tracked to drive system-wide change. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, the committee fosters collaboration and sustained commitment, while providing a space where members can support one another through these deeply important – and emotionally challenging – conversations. Through this shared effort, the committee has driven meaningful, lasting improvements in how children and families are supported during the most difficult moments of care.
