He Chose Nanaimo–Because He Wanted To Care Again

What led you to leave your practice in the United States?

After nearly 20 years as a physician, my work had changed. In my last year, I had zero patient care. I was just arguing with insurance companies. That wasn’t why I went into medicine. I wanted to do something meaningful again.

There were also broader concerns about the direction of healthcare, and what life felt like for my family. It no longer aligned with our values.

So why Nanaimo?

I looked at several communities across British Columbia. I had options. But Nanaimo stood out.

It wasn’t just the lifestyle. It was the feeling.

“It’s a very welcoming place,” I tell people. Everywhere we went, people simply said, “Thank you for coming.”

That matters when you’re making a life decision.

What made the transition possible?

The support.

From colleagues who helped us navigate the move, to guidance finding housing, to a team that welcomed us from day one, it made all the difference.

“They’ve been infinitely patient. Very kind,” I say about my new colleagues.

That kind of support helps you feel like you belong.

What does it mean to be practicing here now?

I get to care for patients again. That’s why I’m here.

And I can see how much it matters. This community needs more doctors.

What would you say to donors?

Investing in the latest medical technology is important, but if you don’t have the trained staff to use it, there’s no point having it. Thank you to the Foundation donors who are investing in the people behind the care.