2026 WOUNDS CANADA
NATIONAL HYBRID CONFERENCE
October 22 – 24, 2026

Dr. Irmajean Bajnok is currently working at Wounds Canada as the Education and Policy Director of the Wounds Canada Institute.  She previously worked as Director of  Director and Senior Policy Analyst at the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO). Irmajean has also held leadership positions at RNAO including Director of the International Affairs and Best Practice Guideline Program and the Centre for Professional Nursing Excellence, as well as in practice settings and international portfolios. Much of her career has been in academia where she has worked in administrative and professional roles at Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Toronto, and Western University.  Dr. Bajnok is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable and engaging speaker and consultant focusing on evidence-based practice and education, healthy work environments, leadership and change management.

As Chief Executive Officer of Wounds Canada, Mariam is responsible for both the implementation of the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the organization. She is a chiropodist and diabetes educator by training and completed her Master’s in Educational Leadership. Mariam has also published, developed and lectured in multiple programs both nationally and internationally. She is also the vice president of D foot International. Through her different roles as an executive director, health-care practitioner and educator, researcher and faculty member for many well-recognized organizations, Mariam has extensive practical and professional experience in advancing public health policy and is  respected as a strategic, visionary, system thinker.

Dr. Mamdani is Clinical Lead – Artificial Intelligence at Ontario Health and Director of the University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Education in Medicine (T-CAIREM). Previously, Dr. Mamdani was Vice President of Data Science and Advanced Analytics at Unity Health Toronto where his team deployed over 50 AI solutions to improve patient outcomes and hospital efficiency. Dr. Mamdani is also Professor in the Department of Medicine of the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, and the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation of the Dalla Lana School of Public Health. He is also an Affiliate Scientist at IC/ES and a Faculty Affiliate of the Vector Institute. In 2024, Dr. Mamdani’s team received the national Solventum Health Care Innovation Team Award by the Canadian College of Health Leaders. Also in 2024, Dr. Mamdani was named international AI Leader of the Year by AIMed. Previously, Dr. Mamdani was named among Canada’s Top 40 under 40. He has published over 600 studies in peer-reviewed medical journals. Dr. Mamdani obtained a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD) from the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) and completed a fellowship in pharmacoeconomics and outcomes research at the Detroit Medical Center. During his fellowship, Dr. Mamdani obtained a Master of Arts degree in Economics from Wayne State University with a concentration in econometric theory. He then completed a Master of Public Health degree from Harvard University with a concentration in quantitative methods.

Gregg Brown is a globally recognized leadership speaker and best-selling author who was recently named one of the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders on Change Management.

Gregg has worked extensively in the health care sector, in urban, rural and remote settings including public health, occupational health, and corrections through to academic, tertiary care, teaching hospitals and community health centers.

He has spoken hundreds of times at conferences and led workshops for Fortune 500 clients including pharmaceuticals, medical diagnostics, as well organizations including the CDC, the NIH, Children’s and Women’s Health Centre of BC, Canadian Nurses Association, University Health Network, Cancer Care Ontario, Registered Nurses Association of Ontario and many others.

Gregg also managed the implementation of a province-wide telemedicine initiative with a primary health care focus for family physicians and nurse practitioners practicing in rural and remote areas in Ontario.

As part of giving back to the community, Gregg volunteered with the Ontario Palliative Care Network with Cancer Care Ontario, as well as supporting veterans through the King’s Trust Canada, and currently mentors young entrepreneurs who start non-profits and businesses.

Gregg is an advisory board member for Camp Aftermath, a mental health organization that supports veterans and first responders, and is a new Board member at Wounds Canada.

He holds a Master`s of Social Science Degree from the University of Leicester in the UK, with a focus on organizational psychology, leadership and performance and is an Associate Member of the American Psychological Association.  

Gregg is currently pursuing a PhD where he is researching how AI is reshaping leadership in organizations.

www.BeChangeReady.com  Gregg@greggbrown.ca

Dr. Karima Velji is Chief of Nursing and Professional Practice and an Assistant Deputy Minister for Ontario. She is leading the integrated health human strategy for the province of Ontario which includes a focus on education expansion/clinical support  (including creation of two new medical schools), scope of practice expansion (including pharmacy minor ailment program and RN prescribing), expediting pathways for interjurisdictional and international practitioners (including launching practice ready assessment program and operationalizing the As of Right legislation) and retention/distribution programs (including locums, clinical scholars and extern program).  She is a Registered Nurse and has held senior leadership positions in several academic health science centres and boards. She is cross-appointed to a number of universities and has received an honorary degree from Loyalist College. Dr. Velji is a sought-after consultant for system level projects and has led external reviews of several organizations. She is a surveyor with Health Standards Organization (HSO), Accreditation Canada.

Dr. Hwang is a general surgeon, award-winning IHI-trained Quality Improvement Advisor, and was previously the PQI Physician Advisor in Fraser Health.  He has a clinical fellowship in colorectal surgery and is the Physician Lead of the Fraser Health Authority (FHA) Complex Wound Centre (CWC), a multidisciplinary clinic specializing in the management of chronic and complex wounds. He is the co-chair of the FHA Regional Wound Advisory Committee which is currently tasked with re-envisioning wound care delivery for a catchment area of 1.9 million British Columbians. Dr. Hwang has a special interest in diabetic foot ulcers and venous stasis ulcers, and specifically about health system processes that prevent the delivery of standard care.  Dr. Hwang has published on diverse topics from the cost-efficient delivery of wound care to the importance of organizational culture in the delivery of physician services.

Dr. Irmajean Bajnok is currently working at Wounds Canada as the Education and Policy Director of the Wounds Canada Institute.  She previously worked as Director of  Director and Senior Policy Analyst at the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO). Irmajean has also held leadership positions at RNAO including Director of the International Affairs and Best Practice Guideline Program and the Centre for Professional Nursing Excellence, as well as in practice settings and international portfolios. Much of her career has been in academia where she has worked in administrative and professional roles at Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Toronto, and Western University.  Dr. Bajnok is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable and engaging speaker and consultant focusing on evidence-based practice and education, healthy work environments, leadership and change management.

Rosemary Hill has devoted over 35 years to nursing, becoming a respected figure in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence care. She served as the President of Nurses Specialized in Wound Ostomy and Continence Canada from 2016 to 2018.

She continues to play a key role in shaping healthcare policies and practices as Chair of the British Columbia Provincial Nursing Ostomy Committee, and a member of British Columbia Provincial Skin and Wound Committee.

Rosemary’s contributions include an international focus where she has been a participant for both the 2019 and 2025 International Pressure Ulcer/Injury Guidelines. As a frequent speaker at national and international conferences, she has won several awards, and continues to share her knowledge and insights with a wide audience, inspiring professionals and enriching the quality of care provided globally.

Dee O'Sullivan-Drombolis has been a physiotherapist for 25 years. During that time she has worked in many various settings in North Western Ontario, including acute care, home care, LTC, and out patients. She has always had a passion for enabling everyone to participate in meaningful movement and activity.

In 2007, she was a part of the inaugural class of Western University's Clinical Masters in Wound Healing program and from that time on, she has worked hard to bring client centred and evidence based wound care to her home area, and to continue to maximize healthy lifestyle for those who suffer from wounds. She has been a part of Wounds Canada for many years, being a past member of the Board, part of many educational offerings and co-authoring many of Wounds Canada's Best Practice Guidelines. She also continues to be Adjunct Faculty at the University of Western Wound Healing Program and has published many articles around physical activity and wound healing.  Dee continues to teach wound care courses and skills in North Western Ontario as well as being co chair of the Regional Wound Advisory Committee for her area.

Dee's current role at Giishkaandago'Ikwe Health Services has given her the gift of truly working within a community based framework together with client's, family's and communities to build mino ayawin or good health in a holistic manner.

Lyndsay Orr has been a registered Physiotherapist since 2000 with clinical experience in hospital, home and community care as well as long term care environments.  Lyndsay received her Clinical Master’s in Wound Healing from Western University in 2008 and was the Wound Care Consultant at Cambridge Memorial Hospital from 2008-2014 at which time she pursued her PhD in Wound Healing.  Lyndsay graduated with her PhD in 2018 with a research focus on the use of electrical stimulation for the healing of pressure ulcers and its associated costs.  She is currently the Program Lead for the South West Regional Wound Care Program which provides integrated, evidence-informed skin and wound care education and resources for the South West region in Ontario.  Lyndsay has published in peer reviewed journals, contributed to several best practice guidelines and is a lecturer for the MClSc-Wound Healing program at Western University.

Dr. Pamela E. Houghton is Full Professor in the School of Physical Therapy at Western University, London, Canada. In 2007, she launched the Master's of Clinical Science program in the field of wound healing and is a full-time faculty instructor. This innovative graduate program is the only one in Canada that uses distance education methods to provide specialized training for an interdisciplinary group of experienced clinicians who treat people with chronic wounds. Dr. Houghton leads an active research program at Western that is dedicated to implementing evidence-informed wound assessment tools and advanced treatments for people with chronic wounds. She is best known for her research and education about electrical stimulation therapy used to accelerate wound closure of stage II, III and IV pressure ulcers as well as other complex wounds. Pamela is a licensed Physical Therapist in Ontario.

Ann Michelle Elford, RN, MSN, CHPCN(c) is the Clinical Manager at Chapman House Residential Hospice in Owen Sound, Ontario, where she provides leadership for a nine-bed residential hospice dedicated to delivering compassionate, person- and family-centred end-of-life care.

With more than 30 years of nursing and healthcare leadership experience, Ann’s career has spanned critical care, oncology, palliative care, research, education, and hospice leadership. As a founding member of the Chapman House clinical team, she has played an integral role in the hospice’s growth and evolution, advancing through progressive leadership roles to oversee clinical operations, quality improvement, policy development, and interdisciplinary team leadership.

Ann is passionate about advancing excellence in hospice and palliative care through education, mentorship, and collaborative practice. She enjoys sharing practical, evidence-informed approaches that support compassionate care while preserving the dignity, comfort, and quality of life of individuals and families facing serious illness.

Outside of her professional life, Ann's greatest joy is her family, who continually inspire and ground her. She is an avid downhill skier and marathon runner, embracing the challenge, resilience, and balance that both pursuits bring—qualities that also shape her approach to leadership and compassionate care.

Dr. Gilbert completed his medical degree, internal medicine training and endocrinology residency at the University of Toronto. He is an associate professor at the University of Toronto and on faculty at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. 

He is the former program director for adult endocrinology and metabolism at the University of Toronto. He has authored a chapter in the 2013 and 2018 Diabetes Canada Guidelines and is a past member of the steering committee of the Diabetes Canada Guidelines. He is the past chair of the dissemination and implementation committee for the Diabetes Canada Guidelines. 

He is the editor in chief of the Canadian Journal of Diabetes. He is the endocrinology section chair at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

He is a passionate teacher and his academic interest in undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing medical education in diabetes and endocrinology. He has received numerous awards for outstanding teaching and leadership including the 2025 Gerald S. Wong Award from Diabetes Canada. 

Paul Bunce is an Internist and Infectious Diseases specialist based at Sinai Health System in Toronto, and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto  He divides his time between clinical care, teaching and education.

Susie is a community pharmacist, where she has applied herself as a Certified Diabetes Educator, Certified Fitter of Compression Therapy and Certified Respiratory Educator.

Nationally, Susie serves on and leads several committees: with Diabetes Canada as a chapter author of Diabetes Canada Clinical Practice Guidelines and member of the dissemination and implementation committee; and with Wounds Canada where she serves on the Board of Directors and has co-authored Wounds Canada Best Practice Recommendations. Provincially, Susie serves on a variety of committees to effect practice and health care in our communities such as the Health Quality Ontario, Diabetes Quality Standard Advisory Committee and the Ontario Immunization Advisory Committee.

Susie is the 2020 Charles H. Best Award recipient, given to a health-care professional who has made a significant difference across Canada towards improving the quality of life of individuals living with diabetes, and was awarded the 2021 Diabetes Canada Educator of the Year.

As Chief Executive Officer of Wounds Canada, Mariam is responsible for both the implementation of the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the organization. She is a chiropodist and diabetes educator by training and completed her Master’s in Educational Leadership. Mariam has also published, developed and lectured in multiple programs both nationally and internationally. She is also the vice president of D foot International. Through her different roles as an executive director, health-care practitioner and educator, researcher and faculty member for many well-recognized organizations, Mariam has extensive practical and professional experience in advancing public health policy and is  respected as a strategic, visionary, system thinker.

Linda Laakso is a Certified Orthotist, educator, and healthcare leader with over 30 years of clinical and professional experience. She is the Director and Founding Partner of Custom Orthotic Design Group Ltd., where she maintains a diverse, comprehensive practice. While she specializes extensively in limb preservation, diabetic foot care, and wound management through advanced pressure-distribution strategies, her clinical scope spans the full spectrum of complex orthotic care.

Dedicated to elevating professional standards, Linda is an Advanced Wounds Canada Certified Professional (AWCCP), having successfully completed the Wounds Canada Champion Program. She serves as a faculty member at George Brown College within the Prosthetic and Orthotic Program and is a former Assistant Clinical Professor (Adjunct )at McMaster University. Her commitment to education and governance extends globally as an auditor for the International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) and past Chair of the ISPO Accreditation Committee. Nationally, Linda has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as President of Orthotics Prosthetics Canada (OPC) and she is currently on the Board of Directors. She holds a Master of Science degree and is a Fellow of the Canadian Board for Certification (FCBC).

Brian Scharfstein is the director and co-owner of Canadian Footwear and Foot and Lower Limb Clinics, with locations in Winnipeg and Calgary. A proud Winnipegger, he has enjoyed a long career in business for over 58 years. With a team of over 100 employees, Brian places the utmost importance on workplace safety and ensuring that customers and patients have a memorable, positive experience. As a certified Canadian Pedorthist, Brian specializes in managing foot complications associated with diabetes and common lower limb conditions. He also serves as a Footwear and Orthotics Benefit Claims Consultant for Canada Life. He is a longstanding member of the Insurance and Government Relations Committee for the Pedorthic Association of Canada. In 2013, he chaired the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and has also served as Vice- Chair of the Winnipeg Police Board. Brian is currently an active member of Winnipeg’s Downtown Community Safety Project.

Eliot To graduated from the Chiropody program at The Michener Institute of Education at UHN in 2011. He previously practiced at Unity Health Toronto (previously St. Joseph’s Health Centre), where he provided preventative foot and wound care to patients at a high risk for ulcerations and amputations. Eliot has a keen interest in wound care; He completed the Master of Clinical Science (Wound Healing) from Western University in 2014. Eliot is also passionate about education. He joined the Chiropody faculty at Michener in 2017. He is actively involved in lecturing, lab simulation and provides foot and wound care at the Michener Chiropody Clinic. Recently, Eliot completed the Master of Health Administration (Community Care) from Toronto Metropolitan University. He aspires to influence change in the health care system to reduce the burden of foot ulcers and lower limb amputations.

Sandra Tadros Guirguis is the Founder & CEO of STG Wellness, a best-selling author of Embracing Abundance: A Journey To Wellness and Wholeness Through Faith and Self-Care, and a professional keynote speaker dedicated to empowering others through evidence-based and holistic wellness education. A practicing clinical pharmacist, Sandra combines science and whole-person integration to deliver transformative talks and programs on women’s health, menopause, bone health, sleep, movement, mental well-being, and nutrition.

As a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP), Certified Bone Fit Provider, Group Fitness Instructor, Healthy Eating and Weight Loss Coach, and Insomnia Management Specialist, Sandra brings a comprehensive, whole-person approach to health. She is widely recognized for helping people integrate medical evidence with practical lifestyle strategies to build lasting vitality and resilience.

Sandra has been featured on the covers of Lifestyle Magazine, Pharmacy Practice + Business Magazine, and BE Magazine, and appears regularly on television as a Pharmacist Expert or Co-Host, including on Breakfast Television, CP24, CTV News, Citytv, YourTV Halton, 100 Huntley Street, and See Hear Love—as well as on various podcasts, corporate, and clinical education sessions for companies and healthcare colleagues.

Through STG Wellness, Sandra delivers keynote addresses and wellness education across Canada and internationally, inspiring audiences with warmth, energy, and actionable tools to thrive in mind, body, and spirit.

Dr. Rosanra (Rosie) Yoon's (she/her) research area focuses on health services evaluation with a particular focus in integrated care for people experiencing structural vulnerabilities, substance use and mental health challenges. Dr. Yoon employs participatory and collaborative evaluation methods for system improvement through her Better Together Research Hub. As a nurse practitioner, her clinical area of expertise is in the areas of substance use, concurrent mental health conditions, trauma and gender-informed care. Bridging between community-based grassroots programs and larger systems – to collaboratively meet the needs of people and communities – is a core value that guides her clinical and research work. Her firm belief is that health is achieved through our communities where we all work, live, play and belong.

Jeremy Caul is an RN from Northwestern Ontario. He has dedicated his career to advocating for Indigenous populations in his region, where Ontario sees its highest rates of diabetes and amputation. Jeremy currently acts as a Nurse Advisor for the Ontario region of the Federal Government, working to support First Nations with skin and wound-related initiatives along the continuum of care.

Jeremy attended Lakehead University and Western University, plus many CMEs from various institutions for wound, ostomy, and continence-related care as well as foot care and diabetes. He participates in the development of professional practice standards, knowledge translation, and academic ventures to promote capacity building and co-development of systems.

David Croitoru is a clinical associate at Women’s College Hospital specializing in complex medical dermatology and wound care. He completed his residency training at the University of Toronto Division of Dermatology as co-chief resident with a concomitant master’s degree from the Graduate Department of Immunology. He is the clinical lead of the only specialized wound clinic for patients with Pyoderma Gangrenosum in Canada and conducts translational research in prospective cohorts of neutrophilic inflammatory and connective tissue disease.

Anne Shantz is a registered nurse who entered nursing as a second career after working in social services. While completing her BScN at Western University, an early clinical experience sparked her interest in wound and ostomy care. She went on to become an Enterostomal Therapist (NSWOC) and later completed a Master of Clinical Science in Wound Healing at Western University. Anne has worked in clinical, education, and program leadership roles, supporting best practice and quality improvement across care settings. She currently works with Wounds Canada in Program Quality and Implementation.

Dee O'Sullivan-Drombolis has been a physiotherapist for 25 years. During that time she has worked in many various settings in North Western Ontario, including acute care, home care, LTC, and out patients. She has always had a passion for enabling everyone to participate in meaningful movement and activity.

In 2007 she was a part of the inaugural class of Western University's Clinical Masters in Wound Healing program and from that time on, she has worked hard to bring client centred and evidence based wound care to her home area, and to continue to maximize healthy lifestyle for those who suffer from wounds. She has been a part of Wounds Canada for many years, being a past member of the Board, part of many educational offerings and co-authoring many of Wounds Canada's Best Practice Guidelines. She also continues to be Adjunct Faculty at the University of Western Wound Healing Program and has published many articles around physical activity and wound healing.  Dee continues to teach wound care courses and skills in North Western Ontario as well as being co chair of the Regional Wound Advisory Committee for her area.

Dee's current role at Giishkaandago'Ikwe Health Services has given her the gift of truly working within a community based framework together with client's, family's and communities to build mino ayawin or good health in a holistic manner.

Sunita Coelho is a wound care nurse with over 25 years of experience in wound care. She was the charge nurse for the Wound Care Clinic at Women’s College Hospital from its inception in 1995 until 2018. During her time at Women’s College Hospital, she was preceptor to nursing students from the Lawrence S. Bloomberg, School of Nursing, U. of T., many of whom went on to pursue careers in wound care. In 2011, she was the recipient of the Preceptor Recognition Award awarded by the Council for Ontario Universities Programs in Nursing (COUPN) for demonstrating outstanding performance in her role as preceptor and mentor for a nursing student. She is on the faculty of the IIWCC (International Interprofessional Wound Care Course)

Sunita currently works at the Toronto Regional Wound Healing Clinic and at the Toronto East Vascular Clinic.

Dr. Robyn Evans is actively involved in research and teaching in her role as Medical Director of the Wound Healing Clinic at Women’s College Hospital. She also maintains a full-time family medicine practice in the community.

Education has become an increasing focus of her work. She serves as Co-Director of the Wound Care Champion Program through Wounds Canada, where she contributes to program development, student evaluation, and the delivery of workshops. Dr. Evans is also Co-Chair of the Diabetic Task Force and serves on the Board of Directors at Wounds Canada. She has co-chaired the Wounds Canada National Conference for the past five years and now serves on its Scientific Planning Committee.

Sheena Fortuna is a Nurse Practitioner for the Medicine Program at Oak Valley Health Hospital. She works in the outpatient Stroke Prevention Clinic and Wound Care Clinic. She completed her Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner and her Master of Nursing degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.  She brings strong expertise in chronic disease management and ambulatory care. Sheena previously worked as a Wound Care Consultant at Oak Valley Health and as Lead Registered Nurse at the Women’s College Wound Care Centre. In these roles, she advanced wound management practice, led initiatives in pressure injury prevention, and contributed to policy and system change to support quality improvement and patient safety. She also serves as an executive member of the Canadian Dermatology Nurses’ Association, where she supports nursing leadership and professional education in skin health. Sheena is passionate about evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and advancing patient-centered care.

Eliot To graduated from the Chiropody program at The Michener Institute of Education at UHN in 2011. He previously practiced at Unity Health Toronto (previously St. Joseph’s Health Centre), where he provided preventative foot and wound care to patients at a high risk for ulcerations and amputations. Eliot has a keen interest in wound care; He completed the Master of Clinical Science (Wound Healing) from Western University in 2014. Eliot is also passionate about education. He joined the Chiropody faculty at Michener in 2017. He is actively involved in lecturing, lab simulation and provides foot and wound care at the Michener Chiropody Clinic. Recently, Eliot completed the Master of Health Administration (Community Care) from Toronto Metropolitan University. He aspires to influence change in the health care system to reduce the burden of foot ulcers and lower limb amputations.

Age 11: First awakening to the physiologic implications of changes in ambient pressure.

Age 14: Diving with homebuilt “Hooka”. (Not recommended)

1963-64: Involved in a project investigating the impact of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on myocardial infarction in dogs.

1964: Graduated Medicine U of T

1965-1969: At Defence and Civilian Institute of Environmental Medicine as a Medical officer in the RCAFworking with the team developing new decompression tables for the Canadian Navy and the space programs.

1969-1974: General practice and anaesthesia, Huntsville Ontario and research into Emergency responses of divers.

1974 – Present : Move to Tobermory Ontario. General practice and from 1975 forward, Medical Director of the Tobermory Hyperbaric Facility 1975 -2024 with application of the unit to support of diving activities and medical applications of HBOT.

Appointments:

Medical advisor, ACUC & NAUI Canada 1974 to dissolution.

Coroner service, Ontario 1969-2023.

Canadian Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Association, Board of Directors 2011 to 2024.

The Tobermory Hyperbaric Facility (THF) was incorporated as a not for profit corp. To support the intense sport diving activity the area attracts. It very quickly became apparent there were a number of patients in the surrounding district that would benefit from what HBOT could do and this rapidly became the predominate focus of our activity. Problem wounds have comprised a major component of that work over the past 50 years. A patient with threatened skin flaps was our first medical case.

This lecture will review the basic principles underlying our approach to healing and will outline what we have learned about the appropriate selection and investigation of patients who may benefit from referral for HBOT. Examples of both good and doubtful outcomes will be provided, with adequate time for questions and discussion of any problems that may arise.

Masters of Nursing Primary Care 2017 UoT, BScN McMaster 2011, BSc Forensic Science 2004 Currently working as a Primary Care Provider for the Peninsula Family Health Team  and ER RN for Brightshores. Previous Supervisor of the Fathom Five National Marine Park - Diver Safety Program.

My first experience with hyperbaric medicine and wound healing came well before I was ever a trained medical professional.  As a high school student and undergrad I was often drafted to tend in the Chamber or prepare slide presentations with Dr Harpur. I would like to say that sparked a life long interest in wound healing but that didn’t come until I decided nursing was going to be my vocation. Our talk will focus on the journey our care team at the Tobermory Hyperbaric Facility and Peninsula Family Health health care has travelled providing HBOT care to our patients from the perspective of both the referring health care provider and the HBOT team.

Anne Shantz is a registered nurse who entered nursing as a second career after working in social services. While completing her BScN at Western University, an early clinical experience sparked her interest in wound and ostomy care. She went on to become an Enterostomal Therapist (NSWOC) and later completed a Master of Clinical Science in Wound Healing at Western University. Anne has worked in clinical, education, and program leadership roles, supporting best practice and quality improvement across care settings. She currently works with Wounds Canada in Program Quality and Implementation.

Dr. Keast is the Medical Director of the Chronic Wound Management Clinic at the Parkwood Institute in London Canada. He is Clinical Adjunct Professor of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University (London). Dr. Keast is an Associate Scientist, Lawson Health Research Institute, Parkwood Institute Research. He is Co-director of the Canadian Lymphedema Framework and President of the World Alliance for Wound and Lymphedema Care.

Jean LaMantia is a registered dietitian, cancer survivor and author of four books on the topics of: Lymphedema, Cancer and Intermittent Fasting. She is also the creator of daily and weekly journals to help individuals with lymphedema, and lipedema track and learn about the impact of diet and self-care on their health.  

She is the creator and facilitator of Lymphedema Nutrition Program, an on-line group series to help people living with lymphedema as well as a professional CE course for lymphedema therapists to help educate and advocate for nutritional management of lymphedema.

She has spoken at national and international conferences and is a strong advocate for a multi-disciplinary approach to lymphedema management. She is the recipient of the Distinguished Practice Award from the Oncology Dietitians Dietetic Practice Group of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

Anne Shantz is a registered nurse who entered nursing as a second career after working in social services. While completing her BScN at Western University, an early clinical experience sparked her interest in wound and ostomy care. She went on to become an Enterostomal Therapist (NSWOC) and later completed a Master of Clinical Science in Wound Healing at Western University. Anne has worked in clinical, education, and program leadership roles, supporting best practice and quality improvement across care settings. She currently works with Wounds Canada in Program Quality and Implementation.

Jeremy Caul is an RN from Northwestern Ontario. He has dedicated his career to advocating for Indigenous populations in his region, where Ontario sees its highest rates of diabetes and amputation. Jeremy currently acts as a Nurse Advisor for the Ontario region of the Federal Government, working to support First Nations with skin and wound-related initiatives along the continuum of care.

Jeremy attended Lakehead University and Western University, plus many CMEs from various institutions for wound, ostomy, and continence-related care as well as foot care and diabetes. He participates in the development of professional practice standards, knowledge translation, and academic ventures to promote capacity building and co-development of systems.

Dee O'Sullivan-Drombolis has been a physiotherapist for 25 years. During that time she has worked in many various settings in North Western Ontario, including acute care, home care, LTC, and out patients. She has always had a passion for enabling everyone to participate in meaningful movement and activity.

In 2007, she was a part of the inaugural class of Western University's Clinical Masters in Wound Healing program and from that time on, she has worked hard to bring client centred and evidence based wound care to her home area, and to continue to maximize healthy lifestyle for those who suffer from wounds. She has been a part of Wounds Canada for many years, being a past member of the Board, part of many educational offerings and co-authoring many of Wounds Canada's Best Practice Guidelines. She also continues to be Adjunct Faculty at the University of Western Wound Healing Program and has published many articles around physical activity and wound healing.  Dee continues to teach wound care courses and skills in North Western Ontario as well as being co chair of the Regional Wound Advisory Committee for her area.

Dee's current role at Giishkaandago'Ikwe Health Services has given her the gift of truly working within a community based framework together with client's, family's and communities to build mino ayawin or good health in a holistic manner.

Dr. Keast is the Medical Director of the Chronic Wound Management Clinic at the Parkwood Institute in London Canada. He is Clinical Adjunct Professor of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University (London). Dr. Keast is an Associate Scientist, Lawson Health Research Institute, Parkwood Institute Research. He is Co-director of the Canadian Lymphedema Framework and President of the World Alliance for Wound and Lymphedema Care.

Dr. Karen Chien MD MSc CCFP (PC,COE) FCFP IIWCC is an academic hospitalist at the Department of Family and Community Medicine (DFCM), University of Toronto. She works in Medical Rehabilitation at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital, Sinai Health and serves as a Wound Care consultant in the specialized Wound Care Centre at Women’s College Hospital. Dr. Chien also has extensive experience as a Palliative Care consultant at St. Michael’s Hospital. She is the recipient of numerous teaching awards at U of T. Dr Chien has a keen interest in enhancing the care of people with complex wounds and is passionate about fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. spearheading curriculum development in medical education and providing resource outreach to hospital and community providers.

Dr. Robyn Evans is actively involved in research and teaching in her role as Medical Director of the Wound Healing Clinic at Women’s College Hospital. She also maintains a full-time family medicine practice in the community.

Education has become an increasing focus of her work. She serves as Co-Director of the Wound Care Champion Program through Wounds Canada, where she contributes to program development, student evaluation, and the delivery of workshops. Dr. Evans is also Co-Chair of the Diabetic Task Force and serves on the Board of Directors at Wounds Canada. She has co-chaired the Wounds Canada National Conference for the past five years and now serves on its Scientific Planning Committee.

Sheena Fortuna is a Nurse Practitioner for the Medicine Program at Oak Valley Health Hospital. She works in the outpatient Stroke Prevention Clinic and Wound Care Clinic. She completed her Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner and her Master of Nursing degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.  She brings strong expertise in chronic disease management and ambulatory care. Sheena previously worked as a Wound Care Consultant at Oak Valley Health and as Lead Registered Nurse at the Women’s College Wound Care Centre. In these roles, she advanced wound management practice, led initiatives in pressure injury prevention, and contributed to policy and system change to support quality improvement and patient safety. She also serves as an executive member of the Canadian Dermatology Nurses’ Association, where she supports nursing leadership and professional education in skin health. Sheena is passionate about evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and advancing patient-centered care.

Helen Arputhanathan is a Patient Services Manager and Wound Care Lead with Ontario Health atHome, providing regional leadership in complex wound management, clinical practice development, and system navigation and integration across home and community care.

With over 30 years of international experience in medical-surgical, cardiology, and wound care nursing, Helen brings a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and health system improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Nursing) from Victoria University, Australia, completed the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course, and earned a Master’s degree in Wound Care from Monash University, Australia. She is also a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence and a CNA-certified professional.

Helen is actively engaged in advancing clinical practice through education, research, and mentorship. She supports ongoing professional development for nurses and Care Coordinators through her involvement with the ECHO Skin and Wound program and has contributed as a co-author to the Canadian Consensus Statement on the Management of Venous Leg Ulcers. She is the author of The Patient Navigation Model to Improve Complex Wound Care Outcomes and has contributed to Wound Bed Preparation 2024: Delphi Consensus on Foot Ulcer Management in Resource-Limited Settings.

She is also involved in Ontario Health’s Lower Limb Preservation Initiative, focused on reducing avoidable lower-limb amputations through early screening, integrated wound care pathways, and equitable access to best practices. Her work emphasizes system navigation, equity in access to care, and practical, patient-centered solutions for managing complex wounds. Helen is recognized for her commitment to mentoring clinicians, strengthening interdisciplinary partnerships, and supporting sustainable wound care models that improve outcomes for patients and caregivers. 

Patricia Coutts is a registered nurse and a past president of Wounds Canada formerly the Canadian Association of Wound Care. A leading wound expert who has lectured across the world, she has published in numerous journals and has been involved in wound research. She has been a preceptor for hundreds of health care professionals. She has experience in many areas of nursing, including medicine, surgery, family practice, psychiatry. Pat is currently employed as a consultant for Wounds Canada and the Woundpedia in Ontario. Patricia is a member of the Faculty of the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course (IIWCC) at the University of Toronto and the Wounds Canada SHARP program.

She currently serves on the Board of Directors of DEBRA Canada (Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association Canada) and The Canadian Hidradenitis Suppurative Foundation.

Joumana Fawaz has been a nurse for over 25 years, with more than 20 years of experience in nursing education. Her passion for wound care has driven her involvement in numerous initiatives, projects, and professional associations in the field. She currently serves as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wound Care and Head of the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Service at the Montreal University Health Center, where she leads and oversees multiple wound care projects. Her contributions to nursing practice have been recognized through several awards, including excellence awards for a quality improvement project. She is also the current President of the Regroupement Québécois en soins de plaies.

Crystal is a private wound consultant and Lecturer for Western University’s Advanced Health Care Practice (Wound Healing) Program. Her education includes:

• A Degree in Nursing from the University of Windsor, in 2004
• A Master of Clinical Science (MClSc) in Wound Healing degree from the Western University, in 2009

Crystal has worked in the acute, community and long-term care sectors in both a traditional nursing role and as a wound consultant and is the former Director of Education at Wounds Canada.

Anne Shantz is a registered nurse who entered nursing as a second career after working in social services. While completing her BScN at Western University, an early clinical experience sparked her interest in wound and ostomy care. She went on to become an Enterostomal Therapist (NSWOC) and later completed a Master of Clinical Science in Wound Healing at Western University. Anne has worked in clinical, education, and program leadership roles, supporting best practice and quality improvement across care settings. She currently works with Wounds Canada in Program Quality and Implementation.

Dr. Coates graduated with a BSc in Biology from Lakehead University, Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Ottawa, and completed his Family Medicine residency at the University of Western Ontario.

Inspired by his sister’s experience with limb loss, he has become a strong advocate for peripheral arterial disease and limb preservation awareness. Given his unique perspective, Dr. Coates was asked to act as primary care consultant to the Windsor-Essex Lower Limb Preservation Strategy and to the Wound Prevention and Treatment Clinic. He also participated in Wound’s Canada’s PAD Awareness Month campaign, and is especially grateful to have his article “Melissa Coates: A Champion’s Fight Against Acute Limb Ischemia” published in the April 2025 issue of Wounds Canada’s Limb Preservation Journal. In November 2025, he presented a webinar “Acute Limb Ischemia: Pearls and Pitfalls” to CorHealth Ontario’s Vascular Community of Practice.

Lyndsay Orr has been a registered Physiotherapist since 2000 with clinical experience in hospital, home and community care as well as long-term care environments.  Lyndsay received her Clinical Master’s in Wound Healing from Western University in 2008 and was the Wound Care Consultant at Cambridge Memorial Hospital from 2008-2014, at which time she pursued her PhD in Wound Healing.  Lyndsay graduated with her PhD in 2018 with a research focus on the use of electrical stimulation for the healing of pressure ulcers and its associated costs.  She is currently the Program Lead for the South West Regional Wound Care Program, which provides integrated, evidence-informed skin and wound care education and resources for the South West region in Ontario.  Lyndsay has published in peer-reviewed journals, contributed to several best practice guidelines and is a lecturer for the MClSc-Wound Healing program at Western University.

Dr. Irmajean Bajnok is currently working at Wounds Canada as the Education and Policy Director of the Wounds Canada Institute.  She previously worked as Director of  Director and Senior Policy Analyst at the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO). Irmajean has also held leadership positions at RNAO including Director of the International Affairs and Best Practice Guideline Program and the Centre for Professional Nursing Excellence, as well as in practice settings and international portfolios. Much of her career has been in academia where she has worked in administrative and professional roles at Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Toronto, and Western University.  Dr. Bajnok is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable and engaging speaker and consultant focusing on evidence-based practice and education, healthy work environments, leadership and change management.

Dr. Hwang is a general surgeon, award-winning IHI-trained Quality Improvement Advisor, and was previously the PQI Physician Advisor in Fraser Health.  He has a clinical fellowship in colorectal surgery and is the Physician Lead of the Fraser Health Authority (FHA) Complex Wound Centre (CWC), a multidisciplinary clinic specializing in the management of chronic and complex wounds. He is the co-chair of the FHA Regional Wound Advisory Committee which is currently tasked with re-envisioning wound care delivery for a catchment area of 1.9 million British Columbians. Dr. Hwang has a special interest in diabetic foot ulcers and venous stasis ulcers, and specifically about health system processes that prevent the delivery of standard care.  Dr. Hwang has published on diverse topics from the cost-efficient delivery of wound care to the importance of organizational culture in the delivery of physician services.

Crystal is a private wound consultant and Lecturer for Western University’s Advanced Health Care Practice (Wound Healing) Program. Her education includes:

• A Degree in Nursing from the University of Windsor, in 2004
• A Master of Clinical Science (MClSc) in Wound Healing degree from the Western University, in 2009

Crystal has worked in the acute, community and long-term care sectors in both a traditional nursing role and as a wound consultant and is the former Director of Education at Wounds Canada.

Kaylem Boileau is a Registered Dietitian with College of Dietitians of Ontario, processing an Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and Nutritional Sciences from the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Food and Nutrition, as well as a Master of Health Sciences from Ryerson University. She has completed the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course (IIWCC-CAN), and continues to advance her knowledge in wound care to support her patients.

Kaylem is the Corporate Wound Care Lead, and Registered Dietitian at the Salvation Army Toronto Grace Health Centre and is the president-elect of the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel. Kaylem has presented on the topic of pressure injuries and nutrition at several conferences, including for CPIAP and Wounds Canada, and has taught at the IIWCC. Kaylem has also contributed to textbooks on nutrition for pressure injuries and is sitting on the expert panel for the development of the RNAO Best Practice Guidelines for pressure injuries. At Toronto Grace, she supports inter-professional wound prevention and care across the organization, and delivers staff education on pressure injury prevention, and wound assessment, management. She has also lead the implementation of the RNAO Best Practice Guidelines for the Assessment and Management of Pressure Injuries for the Interprofessional Team at Toronto Grace.

Paul Bunce is an Internist and Infectious Diseases specialist based at Sinai Health System in Toronto, and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto  He divides his time between clinical care, teaching and education.

Sheena Fortuna is a Nurse Practitioner for the Medicine Program at Oak Valley Health Hospital. She works in the outpatient Stroke Prevention Clinic and Wound Care Clinic. She completed her Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner and her Master of Nursing degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.  She brings strong expertise in chronic disease management and ambulatory care. Sheena previously worked as a Wound Care Consultant at Oak Valley Health and as Lead Registered Nurse at the Women’s College Wound Care Centre. In these roles, she advanced wound management practice, led initiatives in pressure injury prevention, and contributed to policy and system change to support quality improvement and patient safety. She also serves as an executive member of the Canadian Dermatology Nurses’ Association, where she supports nursing leadership and professional education in skin health. Sheena is passionate about evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and advancing patient-centered care.

Dee O'Sullivan-Drombolis has been a physiotherapist for 25 years. During that time she has worked in many various settings in North Western Ontario, including acute care, home care, LTC, and out patients. She has always had a passion for enabling everyone to participate in meaningful movement and activity.

In 2007, she was a part of the inaugural class of Western University's Clinical Masters in Wound Healing program and from that time on, she has worked hard to bring client centred and evidence based wound care to her home area, and to continue to maximize healthy lifestyle for those who suffer from wounds. She has been a part of Wounds Canada for many years, being a past member of the Board, part of many educational offerings and co-authoring many of Wounds Canada's Best Practice Guidelines. She also continues to be Adjunct Faculty at the University of Western Wound Healing Program and has published many articles around physical activity and wound healing.  Dee continues to teach wound care courses and skills in North Western Ontario as well as being co chair of the Regional Wound Advisory Committee for her area.

Dee's current role at Giishkaandago'Ikwe Health Services has given her the gift of truly working within a community based framework together with client's, family's and communities to build mino ayawin or good health in a holistic manner.

Dr. Robyn Evans is actively involved in research and teaching in her role as Medical Director of the Wound Healing Clinic at Women’s College Hospital. She also maintains a full-time family medicine practice in the community.

Education has become an increasing focus of her work. She serves as Co-Director of the Wound Care Champion Program through Wounds Canada, where she contributes to program development, student evaluation, and the delivery of workshops. Dr. Evans is also Co-Chair of the Diabetic Task Force and serves on the Board of Directors at Wounds Canada. She has co-chaired the Wounds Canada National Conference for the past five years and now serves on its Scientific Planning Committee.

Dr. Irmajean Bajnok is currently working at Wounds Canada as the Education and Policy Director of the Wounds Canada Institute.  She previously worked as Director of  Director and Senior Policy Analyst at the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO). Irmajean has also held leadership positions at RNAO including Director of the International Affairs and Best Practice Guideline Program and the Centre for Professional Nursing Excellence, as well as in practice settings and international portfolios. Much of her career has been in academia where she has worked in administrative and professional roles at Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Toronto, and Western University.  Dr. Bajnok is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable and engaging speaker and consultant focusing on evidence-based practice and education, healthy work environments, leadership and change management.