Late last week, we learned of the tragic death of resident Dr. Pawel Garda. We join many of you in sharing our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

“The distress and pain experienced when we lose a member of our community can be felt in many different ways and, for some, at many different times,” explained Dr. Shelley Anderson, Medical Lead for Physician Health with Doctors Manitoba. ​“Know that you are not alone.”

We encourage all members of our community to reach out for support if you need it, now or in the days and weeks to come, and to check in on others who may be experiencing difficulty.

A joint message was sent out on Friday from the Max Rady College of Medicine, Doctors Manitoba, PARIM and Shared Health to medical learners and faculty listing the many supports available:

• All medical learners, physicians and their family members have access to support and assistance through Doc360, physician health resources from Doctors Manitoba. This includes counselling and peer support. You may contact Doc360 directly and confidentially using this online form or by calling 1−844−433−3762. Service descriptions are tailored to students, residents and physicians.
• The University of Manitoba offers health and wellness resources for medical students and residents through Student Affairs , Services for Students on Bannatyne Campus and Ongomiizwin Education. Medical students, residents and fellows can contact Student Affairs at studentaffairsmed@​umanitoba.​ca . Learners can contact Services for Students at Bannatyne Campus at bcss@​umanitoba.​ca or 204−272−3190. Indigenous learners can contact Ongomiizwin Education can be reached at ongomiizwin.​education@​umanitoba.​ca or 204−789−3511.
• UM faculty and staff can also receive support from UM EFAP.
• Other assistance and support is available through the Klinic Crisis Line (24−7) at 204−786−8686 or 1−888−322−3019.

Our Doc360 PAR team has been reaching out and offering support with an on-site presence on Friday and Tuesday, and providing individual and group support to our members as needed. You can request their support for you or a group anytime by using this online form or by calling 1−844−433−3762