My six-word story

Photograph of Dr. Marc Chrétien

HOMETOWN

Ottawa, Ontario

LAST BOOK READ

The Laws of Medicine: Field Notes From an Uncertain Science by Siddhartha Mukherjee

Advice to my younger self: “The journey is long – practice self-care.”

Most memorable training experience in medicine:

  • I have had many life-changing experiences in medicine. What stands out most, are the experiences and memories of patient loss. During training in Internal Medicine, I completed core rotations in general internal medicine, ICU, cardiology, hematology, oncology, geriatrics, palliative care – and repeatedly, I accompanied patients and families on their journeys through illness and sometimes, to death. I remain grateful to the patients and families for their lessons in humility and courage. Finding time and making space to process these stories is an investment in well-being and sustainable physicianship.

Education:

  • Doctor of Medicine, University of Calgary
  • Master of Science (Pharmacology), Queen’s University
  • Bachelor of Science (Honours, Life Sciences), Queen’s University

Awards:

  • Financial awards to attend The Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings at Lindau, Germany
  • Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Health Professional Student Research Award (in support of a research elective at Harvard University)
  • Financial awards in support of training at the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine at the University of Oxford
  • Financial awards in support of training at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Community Involvement:

  • World Vision Canada – overseas volunteer work and child sponsorship
  • Undergraduate tutor at Queen’s University and Western University

Personal notes:

  • Favourite interest or hobby: Reading (Canadian, American or British literature; biographies; and newspapers)
  • My most played song: “Canadiana Suite” by the Oscar Peterson Trio
  • Can’t live without: Daily cup of tea from Tea Haus
  • Something I’ve learned that’s stuck with me: I read “Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams” by Matthew Walker and rediscovered the value of quality sleep. I purchased an OURA ring six months ago and continue to experiment with my sleep routine, looking for ways to optimize all aspects of sleep and recovery.

Say it in Six

Inspired by the legendary Ernest Hemingway example, “For sale: baby shoes, never worn,” the six-word story is a creative challenge to simplify ideas, spark conversation and inspire action.

What’s your six-word story? Connect with us on social media or by email to share your story.