The Mortar & Pestle Summer 2020

SUMMER 2020

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA

THE

FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

EDUCATION ABROAD

WORKING TOGETHER, SIX FEET APART

ONE FACULTY’S FOOTPRINT

2021 HOCKEY GAME 2020

Pharmacy VS. Dentistry brought to you by APSA and DSA

1 2 0 2 l i t n u d Postpone e details!

Family Skate & Lawn Games

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM

The Game

5:15 PM – 7:30PM

The PAA After-Party

7:30 PM – 9:30 PM Room at the Top, Student Union Building

Sponsored by the Pharmacy Alumni Association

C

r th Stay tuned fo

heer rink-side while pharmacy students battle it out with their dentistry rivals! Start the night skating with your family or grab a beer post-game at the PAA’s after-party. You won’t want to miss it.

Tickets: $10/person // Kids attend for free Buy your tickets today at ualberta.ca/pharmacy All proceeds go to Diabetes Canada. Food and beverages available for purchase all night.

Thank you to our generous sponsor for supporting this event.

Contents

Dean: Dr. Neal M. Davies Assistant Dean, Advancement: Kieran Andrew MacIsaac Development and Alumni Engagement Officer:

5

NEWS & NOTES 6

Ellen Doty Editor: Kalyna Hennig Contributors: Michael Brown Julia Brown Photography Kalyna Hennig Helen Metella Dr. Kevin Morin Dean Rhyngwladol April Wilcocks Design & Illustration: Curio Studio The Mortar & Pestle is published twice per year to keep our community of alumni, students, and faculty connected and informed. As always, we welcome your comments, suggestions, and story pitches to guide future issues. phcomms@ualberta.ca ualberta.ca/pharmacy @ualbertapharmacy @ualberta_pharmacy @UAlberta_Pharm linkedin.com/school/ualberta-pharmacy

FEATURES

Dean’s Distillate

24 One Faculty’s Footprint The impact of the Faculty of Pharmacy

Advancing the Health of Canadians

and Pharmaceutical Sciences’

Recent graduate, Dr. Dillon Lee, receives a national honour.

9

A Note from the PAA

9

Healthcare on Wheels

community is made up of students, alumni, faculty, and research that reaches across the globe.

29 The Caribbean Connections

Edmonton’s first Mobile Medical Clinic launches with the help of pharmacy alumni.

30 Building the Japan-Alberta Alliance 33 Working Together, Six Feet Apart Edmonton-based research collaborations, volunteer support at the

11 Mourning Flight PS752

COVID Emergency Shelter, and hope for

SPOTLIGHT

a cure are all prevalent in the Faculty’s fight against COVID-19.

13 Something More Calgary’s oldest independent pharmacy, Lukes Drug Mart, is an on-trend community hub and destination for all.

LOOKING BACK 36 The Moshier Moments Dr. Heber Moshier was the first Director

17 Q&A with Colter Young Pharmacy alumnus launches the first pharmacist-led hepatitis C clinic.

of Pharmacy, Professor, and Chair of the Department of Physiology at the University of Alberta.

19 Dr. Ubaka Ogbogu named a Trudeau Foundation Fellow

39 All in the Family The Szumlas’ are the first family at Bashaw Drugs to have generational

IN THE MORTAR

ownership of the historic pharmacy and the fourth generation of University of

20 Education Abroad Dr. Michael Doschak, Assistant Dean

Alberta alumni to run it.

International, talks about the Faculty’s world-wide educational connections.

22 Pharmacy in Tripoli, Lebanon 23 Pharmacy in Kobe and Tokyo, Japan

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

3

DEAN'S DISTILLATE

Dean’s Distillate

PHARMACY IN A PANDEMIC

T

HE BEGINNING OF A NEW DECADE makes me reflect

changed modern life forever. No one could have fathomed only six

on important things. It’s an opportunity to adjust and to

months ago, that the world would be where it is today, but pharmacists,

contemplate different paths. For us at the Faculty of Pharmacy

pharmaceutical scientists, and all health professionals and frontline

and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2020 has been a year of consolidation.

workers of the world have collectively forged on to make the planet

We are committed to maintaining balance between social progress,

a safer place.

economic development, equity, diversity, inclusion, globalization,

As we adapt and fight this battle, we maintain our commitment

and changes in healthcare. Over the past few years, we have sought

to be excellent, because working with you, and for you, to meet your

to increase the relative visibility of the Faculty, and we continue to

expectations is our main priority. Our vision for our Faculty remains

remain a committed, innovative, world-class pharmacy Faculty with an

the same. Together, I know that we will achieve it.

international presence and footprint. We are proud of the part we have played in healthcare around the world.

In similar ways, we will keep advancing in the implementation of remodeled facilities in our Faculty, updating the curriculum, creating

However, the year 2020 rapidly took on new meaning with the

more connectivity and improving technology so that your experience

COVID-19 pandemic. It has been a year of change and adaptability,

with us is optimized. Rejuvenating websites and magazines have been

of fear and of hope. Now, more than ever, our connectivity across the

great initiatives, but at the end of the day, cannot truly replace direct

globe gains value, as we join to fight off a global pandemic that has

human contact between all of us — even when it must be done virtually, six feet apart, or through a magazine.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

DEAN'S DISTILLATE

To the FoPPS Community: RECENTLY, racist events in the United States, Canada, and beyond have come into public focus, and pushed I’m convinced that this year, and this decade, we will still achieve all our goals, as behind our objectives is a motivated and talented team, comprised of professionals committed to delivering the best experience to our students and alumni. We will make you as proud of our Faculty as we are of you. This new year and new decade, we hope to accompany you in your achievements and aspirations, in our profession, so that together, we can all go further.

At this time, the University of Alberta is considering restructuring and amalgamating faculties. I believe unequivocally that everything we do here in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences matters.

We continue to make a difference in many lives, locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally because of our sustained efforts.

Although the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences strongly endorses equal collaboration from all the professions involved

society to acknowledge its own toxic and systemic racism.

The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences denounces anti-Black racism and stands in solidarity with the Black community. We acknowledge that we need to learn more, listen better, and take actionable steps towards justice and equity for racialized members of our community.

Truthful dialogue is necessary to create meaningful action.

We’ve been taking time to listen and facilitate discussion to inform a more meaningful and concrete action plan.

The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences’ Strategic Plan includes processes dedicated to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), and we will look to our faculty members that sit on the University-wide EDI committee for

in health sciences — and empowering collaboration is always our goal

continual guidance. Here are our plans moving forward:

— avoiding dominance of one discipline over another in professional

• We will review all faculty procedures, curriculum,

or academic contexts has always been our position. I count on all

admissions, teaching practices, and hiring, as well

of you, our alumni, as important advocates moving forward. Now,

as consult with students, staff, alumni, and greater

more than ever, you are all deeply appreciated. I thank you and all the

university counterparts to facilitate additional plans

essential pharmacy workers of our professional ranks for your support.

of action. Such actions will be publicly shared,

Even in these difficult times, I am looking forward to our shared future.

disseminated, and implemented over the coming

I hope that as you read each issue of The Mortar & Pestle, you will begin to feel our unbridled dedication and the difference that it makes.

days and months ahead.

• Members of our leadership team have participated

I encourage you to read this issue with hope at its core, as you learn

in unconscious bias training, but we will work to make

about the steps taken by our world-wide community to make society

this training available to all faculty and staff on an

a better place, even amidst such uncertainty.

ongoing basis.

Health and safety have always been our highest value at the Faculty, and during this pandemic it’s taken on a new and different significance.

This virus transmits, it infects, and it kills. I ask each of you to be your brother’s keeper, be your sister’s keeper, and to continue to look out for one another’s health and safety.

Thank you for your commitment to the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and the profession. Thank you for being a part of our community. Thank you for having me as your Dean.

Sincerely,

• Our Faculty will work on further tangible steps alongside our stakeholders and constituents to create positive change for the Black community and other racialized groups.

• We have compiled a list of resources that has been shared with our students, and will be made available to faculty, staff, and our community so that we can continue to learn and grow together. The list will continually be updated and can be found at: www.ualberta.ca/pharmacy/about-us/edi On behalf of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, we acknowledge that we have a lot of work to do to actively dismantle systemic racism, and we commit to

NEAL M. DAVIES BSc(Pharm), Ph.D., R.Ph.

working together to accomplish purposeful actions as a

Dean and Professor

dedicated part of the solution. We can do better, and we will.

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

5

NEWS & NOTES

NEWS & NOTES

AWARDWINNING STUDENTS

Scott Dyer (PharmD 2021) received the ACP Past President Award this spring for his work as President of the Alberta Pharmacy Students’ Association (APSA), which will be presented to him at ACP’s upcoming Celebration of Leadership event.

CANADIAN PHARMACIST OF THE YEAR Congratulations to University of Alberta alumna Dr. Kelly Grindrod (BSc Pharm 2003) for receiving the Canadian Pharmacists Association’s Canadian Pharmacist of the Year award! Read more about her accomplishments as a pharmacist, researcher, teacher, and mentor at pharmacists.ca.

For attaining the highest Grade Point Average in the Class of 2020, Dr. Trina Gartke (PharmD 2020) received the Alberta College of Pharmacy (ACP) Gold Medal, presented at this year’s virtual Pharmacy Convocation Celebration with ACP on June 12th.

Additionally, Gartke also received the Alberta Premier’s Silver Medal upon graduation, one

Daniela Amaral Silva (PhD 2021), supervised

of the University’s highest student honours,

by Dr. Raimar Loebenberg and Dr. Neal

which is awarded to the undergraduate student

Davies, received the Alberta Innovates

who achieves the highest academic standing

Graduate Student Scholarship (AIGSS) for

throughout their entire degree in the Faculty

her work on developing an inhalable treatment

of Law, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry,

to prevent the spread of breast cancer to

or Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical

the lungs using nanotechnology for better

Sciences.

outcomes.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

NEWS & NOTES

Advancing the Health of Canadians

PHARMACY GRADUATE, DR. DILLON LEE, RECEIVES NATIONAL CSHP HOSPITAL PHARMACY STUDENT AWARD

Throughout her time at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Alberta, Dr. Dillon Lee (PharmD 2020) has excelled academically, led the Health Sciences Students’ Association, worked in hospitals and community pharmacies, and pursued over 10

Dr. Dillon Lee

bench-top, translational research, and Quality Improvement projects as a pharmacy student. This spring, Dr. Lee was chosen from pharmacy students across the country to receive the 2020 Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists’ Hospital Pharmacy Student Award, presented to her at Professional Development Week 2020 in Montreal as well as at CSHP’s Professional Practice Conference in Toronto. The award — given to a pharmacy student who exhibits eagerness and a positive attitude toward academic learning, pharmacy practice, and the profession of hospital pharmacy — recognizes her dedication to direct patient care, research, and education.

“Winning the national award encouraged my professional identity to become an excellent clinician who also takes proactive steps to improve the delivery of health care,” says Dr. Lee. “Pharmacists are strategically placed in the healthcare system and have great potential to advance the health of Canadians.”

And this is something Dr. Lee is already working on. As a pharmacy student she worked on various projects to improve healthcare through pharmacy practice, like creating a healthcare guide for new Canadians, identifying alternative strategies to follow-up with patients in an emergency department, leading a study to define the role of pharmacists as emergency responders during a pandemic, and planning and hosting the first Canadian Quality Improvement workshop for pharmacy students.

“My goal as a pharmacist is to become an agent of change for our profession and support my colleagues to pursue leadership projects,” says Lee. “Being a pharmacist means serving the public as an essential worker who has the expertise and skills to fill unique service gaps in healthcare. I hope to become an excellent clinician who inspires pharmacy colleagues to innovate health solutions to current and future practice challenges.” 

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

7

NEWS & NOTES

SAVE the

DATE!

Calling all alumni!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK.

Weigh in on the University of Alberta’s discussion regarding the potential amalgamation of Faculties.

Learn more and give direct feedback at ualberta.ca/uofa-tomorrow

VIRTUAL

ALUMNI WEEKEND 2020 Due to health and safety protocols during COVID-19, the University

2020 Alumni Awards

of Alberta has made the decision

Congratulations to alumna Margaret Wing (BSc Pharm 1985) for receiving a 2020

to transform this year’s Alumni

Alumni Honour Award. The award recognizes her significant achievements and

Weekend into a virtual celebration.

contributions over the years to the pharmacy profession and community as CEO of

This September, we look forward

the Alberta Pharmacists’ Association (RxA) and advocate on behalf of pharmacists

to celebrating with you even

in Alberta. Wing, along with the other alumni recipients in the University of

though you can’t come to campus!

Alberta community, will be celebrated at an event early next year.

Details coming soon at ualberta.ca/alumni/events/ alumni-weekend

Tap into your potential and give back.

With your generosity, we can ensure our students get the assistance and resources they need in this uncertain time.

Make a gift today at uab.ca/givetopharm

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

Margaret Wing

NEWS & NOTES

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S Class of 2020 A NOTE FROM THE PAA

DEAR CLASS OF 2020

On behalf of the Pharmacy Alumni

But, please know that the entire alumni

Association, we would like to extend our

community is celebrating your successes and

warmest congratulations to the Pharmacy

rooting for you in this next stage of life.

Class of 2020 on your graduation! Your hard

We also want to welcome you into the

work and determination over the last four years

alumni community! You are joining a vast

has finally paid off, and we are confident in

network of professionals, and we will be

your abilities to succeed in whatever path

keeping in touch with you regarding future

you choose.

volunteer opportunities and social events.

We empathize with you as you were unable

We know these last few months have been

to celebrate in the traditional sense, with an

challenging in a lot of ways, but we will

in-person cap-and-gown commencement

continue to unite as a community of current,

ceremony, due to these unusual circumstances.

new, and future alumni! 

Mint Health and Drugs — launched in January 2020 to better serve Edmonton’s most vulnerable populations. The clinic, housed in a large cube van, allows those experiencing homelessness, or barriers such as having no permanent address or government issued healthcare documentation, to more easily access the patient and healthcare services they need.

The van parks outside different shelters and centres in Edmonton, and its multidisciplinary team includes a nurse practitioner, community advocate, and pharmacist, among others. Together, the team offers services such as immunizations, flu shots, wound care, and general check-ups to patients.

Healthcare on Wheels

PHARMACY ALUMNI ON-BOARD WITH EDMONTON’S FIRST MOBILE MEDICAL CLINIC

Among the parties involved in launching this revolutionary form of healthcare in Edmonton is Mint Health and Drugs, operated by Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences alumnus Kit Poon (BSc Pharm 2004). Also part of the project are alumni Cole Mondor (BSc Pharm 2015), pharmacy licensee of Church Street, the mobile clinic’s associated pharmacy; Andrew Noh (BSc Pharm 2014), Project Manager; Ron Wai (BSc Pharm 2004), Program Development and Stakeholder Engagement; and Dr. Brandon Brost (PharmD 2019), frontline pharmacist for the mobile clinic.

At its launch, Edmonton joined nine other cities, including Calgary,

Edmonton’s mobile medical clinic — funded by Telus and in partnership

Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, that also have Telus mobile clinics via

with The Mustard Seed, The Boyle McCauley Health Clinic, and

its Health For Good campaign across Canada.  THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

9

NEWS & NOTES

FACULTY NOTES The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is now ranked 13th in the world for citations per paper according to the 2020 QS World University Rankings by Subject.

Marlene Gukert, Clinical Associate Professor, retired on June

Congratulations to Dr. John Ussher, Associate Professor, and his

30th after working at the Faculty for 19 years. Thank you, Marlene,

wife, Nancy, on their baby boy, Leviathan Xander Bryant Ussher,

for all your work and dedication to the Faculty of Pharmacy and

born in February this year.

Pharmaceutical Sciences, and to student pharmacists all these years. Congratulations and best wishes.

Dr. Nese Yuksel, Associate Professor, has been awarded the Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Institute of Gender and

Congratulations to Dr. Lockhart Jamieson for successfully

Health Women’s Health Clinical Mentorship Grant. The aim of

defending her PhD during the COVID-19 pandemic and receiving a

the grant is to advance clinical research in women’s health and

fellowship to undertake her post-doctoral studies at the University

build capacity in the next generation of women’s health clinician-

of Calgary with Dr. Robert Rose.

researchers. Dr. Yuskel will be investigating cannabis use in menopause, which has traditionally been under-researched.

Dr. Cheryl Sadowski, Professor, received a grant for a pharmacy

She will be training and mentoring Katherine Babyn, a master’s

practice study on urology this spring. Recruitment for the project

student at the Faculty, throughout the duration of the one-year

will hopefully start this fall. Interested pharmacists can contact

research project.

her at cherylas@ualberta.ca.

The Shevchenko Medal: A Ukrainian-Canadian Honour ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN NEW TRAIL In November 2019, alumnus Borys Sydoruk (BSc Pharm 1981) was honoured with the Shevchenko Medal at the XXVI Triennial Ukrainian Canadian Congress Awards Banquet in Ottawa.

The Shevchenko Medal is the highest recognition granted by the Congress and recognizes people, institutions, and organizations for exceptional contributions to the Ukrainian-Canadian community. Sydoruk was recognized for his work raising awareness of the Holodomor — the genocidal famine in Soviet-governed Ukraine — and Canada’s first national internment operations of 1914-20.

Congratulations, Borys, and thank you for your contributions to the UkrainianCanadian community.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

NEWS & NOTES

IN MEMORIAM

We honour those who have passed.

CHARLES WAYNE MCDOUGALL BSc Pharm 1951 October 2019

IRENE RUTH LEINAN BSc Pharm 1968 December 2019

ROBIN ROBERT ISON PhD 1970 December 2019

DOREEN HAGEN BSc Pharm 1952 March 2020

JOHN WARCHOLA BSc Pharm 1957 November 2019

RONALD ALAN HUBER BSc Pharm 1960 January 2020

DR. GERALD “JERRY” ARTHUR NIVEN BSc Pharm 1968, DDS Med 1972 March 2020

MARIO MICHAEL MAYCHER BSc Pharm 1957 December 2019

SANDRA KRYN (NEE CARRUTHERS) BSc Pharm 1971 February 2020

Mourning Flight PS752 Ten members of the University of Alberta community and three members of their families were among the 176 people killed when Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 crashed on January 1st a few minutes after takeoff from Tehran International Airport.

They were professors and students, sons and daughters, mothers and fathers. Some were accomplished researchers; some were just embarking on promising careers. All will be mourned and missed.

(First published by folio.ca) The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences mourns the victims of this tragic accident and thinks of all those affected, including our faculty members and students who are part of the Iranian community. The members of our campus and the other passengers on the flight were integral parts of our University of Alberta family and beyond, as well as beloved family members and friends. We remember them now and always.

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

11

SPOTLIGHT

Gareth Lukes in the vinyl aisle at Lukes Drug Mart in Bridgeland.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

SPOTLIGHT

N I G H M T E O M RE O S Vinyl, coffee, and patient care at Lukes Drug Mart BY

K AL YNA H

IL W I ENNIG | P H OTO G R A P H Y BY A P R

C LC O

KS

In 1951, Lukes Drug Mart was opened in

Edmonton, where he finished his Bachelor

Calgary’s Bridgeland neighbourhood by Jim

of Science in Pharmacy degree in 1975. After

Lukes. Today, it still operates in the original

working at the family business with his dad

building. Born in Radville, Saskatchewan,

for a few more years, Robert went back to

Jim became familiar with pharmacy in his

school and received a commerce degree and his

early years working as a delivery boy for the

Chartered Accountant license, and worked in

town’s pharmacist. Three generations later, the

the field until 1985. That year, Jim retired, and

ever-evolving Lukes Drug Mart has become so

Robert took over the store.

much more than a prescription pick-up stop, as

Today, Robert’s son, Gareth Lukes, is also

Jim’s son, Robert Lukes (BSc Pharm 1975), an

in the family business. He followed a similar

alumnus of the University of Alberta’s Faculty

path to his father, and started his educational

of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and

journey in commerce and has now been

his grandson Gareth Lukes — have continued

working at the store full-time for 17 years.

to transform the family business. Now, it’s

Gareth says he knew he would have to take

an on-trend community hub and destination

over the store one day, and he liked the rigor

for all, and Calgary’s oldest independent

of it. When he joined the family business, it

pharmacy.

was at a time of transition for the pharmacy

Robert Lukes grew up in and around the pharmacy with his dad, so it only made sense

profession as a whole.

“Independent pharmacies in the province

to follow the family trade when the time came.

hadn’t really died, but they had largely

Though his first few years of post-secondary

been bought out by larger companies,” says

education involved some transitions — from

Gareth. “I saw that we needed to drastically

the University of Calgary to the University of

differentiate [our business], or we couldn’t

Alberta, taking a year off, and returning

survive as what a retail pharmacy used to be.”

to Calgary to take economics and computer sciences — he pivoted back to pharmacy in

But Lukes Drug Mart was not new to setting itself apart. In the 1960’s, part of the store

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

13

SPOTLIGHT

Robert Lukes (BSc Pharm 1975) (left) and Bridgeland manager and alumnus, David Brewerton (BSc Pharm 1981) (right).

functioned as a beauty salon, and in the late

back end support that big chains are getting

own area of the store. Then, the vinyl section

‘90s, Lukes Drug Mart expanded the chain

to their pharmacies. We have to offset that

success was noticed by Stumptown Coffee,

into three Tuck shops across the city. By 2010,

by creating interesting things. So, we thought

and Lukes Drug Mart also became a spot for

it opened a second store in Calgary’s Killarney

‘what would this sort of neighbourhood want?’”

sustainable, fairly traded, artisan coffee.

neighbourhood, and for most of Robert Lukes’

Gareth says they thought about

“We just kept bringing in new brands,

career, they also ran a home care business

neighbourhoods in larger cities, like Vancouver,

and people were excited to deal with us,”

and a location at a nursing home. However,

Portland, and Seattle, in terms of what

says Gareth. “Everyone was excited to sell

success wasn’t only about franchising new

types of businesses would be available to the

to us during that economic boom time when

locations, but creating unique experiences

community as staples.

downtown was growing so much. So, we were

and atmosphere.

“It’s about how to stay relevant,” says Gareth. “We had to reinvent.”

The evolution to something more than a

“If we were Vancouver, this neighbourhood would have a record store, this neighbourhood

really lucky at the time we came up.”

Championing local brands and unique

would have a bunch of really good coffee

experiences, Lukes also offers a one of a kind

shops, this neighbourhood would have a

atmosphere. Sporting its original hardwood

pharmacy was spurred by the desire to serve

bunch of boutiques. That was the start of us

floors (that were first covered with carpeting),

the patients in the same way that they always

carrying records,” says Gareth. They started

the store is draped with houseplants in locally

had, but at the same time remain economically

selling vinyl records in the aisles, then at the

made pots and old style hand-lettering adorns

viable, says Gareth. “We aren’t getting all the

post office, and then it expanded into its very

the windows. It might just remind you of

“It’s about how to stay relevant, We had to reinvent.”

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

SPOTLIGHT

“The store now is a fantastical version of what it never looked like in the past.” a vintage ice cream parlour. The Killarney

carpet, and linoleum underneath the carpet.

location, which actually has soft-serve

But the store now is a fantastical version of

the bid. It’s because we had been around for 70

ice cream today, offers the same level of

what it never looked like in the past.”

years,” says Gareth. “And if they were looking

diversification and charm.

“Back in the ‘50s, we were like a malt shop,”

“I think that was one of the reasons we won

Of their most recent endeavours, Lukes

for someone who would be there for a very

has expanded its brand into the food service

long time, for the long haul, that shows that

says Gareth. “I remember talking to a couple

industry at the new Calgary Public Library.

we can do that. I also think it was because we

of customers about their parents that used to

In 2019, along with the library, they opened

were really focused on doing democratic food

come down here because there were a bunch of

Lukes East Village, in partnership with famed

and healthy stuff in that space. That was one of

cool kids that hung out at the pharmacy. There

local chef Eric Hendry, offering simple and

the concerns they had, they didn’t want a chain

weren’t that many drugs or products at the

local foods in a beautiful sun-soaked, 32-seat

that was going to do heavily processed foods.”

pharmacy in the ‘50s, so you had to have other

space, complete with a living wall and quirky

stuff available. Sunday was usually busy back

window decals.

then, people would come by after church for

Overall, the core values of Lukes Drug Mart have seamlessly flowed in the success of Lukes

“Because the store has been around for

East Village. “It’s been a really good project

sandwiches and milkshakes. That was where all

so long, we offered a little more stability,”

for us, because we can take the things we’ve

the business was.”

says Robert. “The restaurant business is a

learned here, like the customer service, the

tough business. And so even though it looks

standards that made this pharmacy successful,

tremendous, you have to work at it.”

and take it there,” says Gareth.

“It’s surreal,” says Robert. “That wooden flooring we have now was never exposed. It had

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

15

SPOTLIGHT

So, what’s next for the Lukes legacy?

And it’s that patient interaction, and all

“You can make a difference in people’s

Right now, they are working on a cosmetics

the unique offerings Lukes has created for its

lives providing this service and looking out for

component of all-natural Canadian brands at

patients, that really speaks to its success.

them,” says Robert. “There are thousands of

the Killarney location, dinner service coming

“To be successful, you have to pick what

stories of our patients that have told us that

to Lukes East Village, and three dozen new

your store is going to be. You have to do that

we’ve made such a huge difference in their

brands to be made available in the stores. As

incredibly well. Don’t try to be everything

lives. There’s a lot of situations where their

for the pharmacy component, it’s “never been

to everybody. Lukes works because of the

family is not there, and they don’t have the

more exciting,” says Robert. Lukes is ensuring

neighbourhood and the history,” says Gareth.

support anywhere else. We’re there when no

all of their pharmacists have prescribing rights,

“Just find something you’re passionate about

one else is, and that’s how we make that kind

and are bringing in travel medication and other

and use that to create your business. Do

of impact. And as always, we want to provide

evolved services as they become available.

those one or two things very well, better than

the services that people in the neighbourhood

“You have so many more opportunities from

anyone else in the city, and you will have a

want and need.” 

the standpoint of injections, patient care. It

good business. I think that’s a key for anyone

makes that patient interaction so much better

graduating or wanting to open a pharmacy —

than it used to be,” says Robert.

you have to have a niche.”

“You can make a difference in people’s lives providing this service and looking out for them,” 16

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

SPOTLIGHT

Colter Young

with Colter Young PHARMACY ALUMNUS LAUNCHES THE FIRST PHARMACIST-LED HEPATITIS C CLINIC Alberta is in the midst of an opioid crisis and has recently worked to increase access to addiction medicine services within the province. However, many of those engaging in care for substance use disorders represent vulnerable and marginalized populations, often disenfranchised from traditional healthcare, experiencing additional gaps in care. This includes the often overlooked diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C. That’s where alumnus Colter Young (BSc Pharm 2016) comes in. Working for Shoppers Drug Mart within an addiction medicine clinic in downtown Edmonton, he developed the SDM-CHOICE (Coordinated Hepatitis C and Opioid Dependency Intervention in a Community Environment) Program. Young’s work focuses on treating patients with hepatitis C, “a curable disease with potentially severe individual and public health consequences that is frequently overlooked in people who use drugs,” says Young.

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

17

SPOTLIGHT

“With a fresh approach and by meeting people where they are, we could help support access to the cure our patients deserve” What is a pharmacist-led hepatitis C clinic? What unique

hepatitis C care. Our advocacy within the field contributed to Alberta

services does it offer patients?

expanding their treater pool to include not only pharmacists, but also

The landscape of hepatitis C treatment has changed drastically over

family physicians, nurse practitioners and other “non-specialists”.

the last five years. New treatments have been developed with cure rates

Since this expansion, I have facilitated a number of training sessions to

approaching 100% and very few side effects. Drug coverage for these

support the education of non-specialist treaters across Canada.

treatments has also been expanded, meaning more people can be cured than ever before.

Despite these advancements, almost half of those with hepatitis C

Knowledge dissemination and exchange have also been a focus of our work. Last fall, I presented at the International Network on Hepatitis in Substance Users’ (INHSU) annual conference in Montreal. There,

are unaware of their infection. For those who are, less than 10% are

I summarized the Program’s observations that, in appropriate settings

started on treatment. To address this shortfall, experts around the world

with a defined linkage to care pathway, pharmacist-led hepatitis C

recognize that the management of hepatitis C must expand to include

intervention can improve the successful completion of the cascade

care provided by non-specialists such as pharmacists, family physicians

of care, which means more people get cured. I was met with a lot of

and nurse practitioners.

interest in our novel treatment model.

My clinic leverages the therapeutic relationship developed with those

I was then invited to participate as a Canadian delegate in the

engaged in addiction medicine therapy to streamline access to treatment

Hepatitis C Screening and Linkage to Care Summit in Valencia, Spain.

under the care of a specially trained prescribing pharmacist.

It was an incredible platform for knowledge exchange with practitioners

What are the roles of a pharmacist at the hepatitis C clinic?

As designated non-specialist treaters, my team and I manage all steps in the cascade of hepatitis C care out of the pharmacy. This includes screening patients on site with point-of-care testing, completing their pre-treatment assessment by ordering and interpreting lab work, prescribing the appropriate treatment and scheduling follow-up. We also have a direct referral process to a specialist if needed.

Of course, an important part of what we do is health promotion

from around the world, and I was honoured to share our model of care learnings and to review novel techniques that have been used elsewhere to successfully engage patients.

Finally, as an advocate of academic credibility, I am leading the SDMCHOICE study that looks to formally document the positive impact of pharmacist-led hepatitis C intervention.

Why did you choose to become a pharmacist?

and patient education, and these activities occur on an ongoing basis.

With the expansive scope earned by pharmacists in Alberta, I saw

This includes improving awareness about hepatitis C but also other

the opportunity to build an innovative practice while providing low

communicable diseases, promotion of vaccinations and harm reduction

barrier access to vital healthcare services. I was also drawn to the team

practices. We strive to maintain a non-judgmental environment and

environment and the opportunity to help people manage not only their

provide access to safe drug use supplies and naloxone on site.

medications, but to navigate their healthcare journey.

Why is this initiative important to you?

What led you to your current practice?

There is an enormous gap in care for a curable condition. The

I first developed a passion for inner-city health and wellness during

prevalence of hepatitis C is high in people who inject drugs, but

my practicum experiences in the Faculty. Since graduating four years

these individuals are not being screened or successfully connected to

ago, I have been building my practice within this field, with a focus on

care under the traditional treatment model. Plus, the World Health

addiction medicine and its associated comorbidities. Throughout my

Organization has set a goal of eliminating hepatitis C as a public health

time as a student, and now as a pharmacist, I have worked for Shoppers

threat by 2030, and Canada is not on track.

Drug Mart, where I’ve been given a tremendous amount of support.

We thought that, with a fresh approach and by meeting people where they are, we could help support access to the cure our patients deserve.

And we were right.

What does it mean to you to be a pharmacist?

As pharmacists, we have the opportunity to make meaningful differences in our patients’ lives. We have the obligation to use our pharmaceutical

How are you advocating for pharmacists’ involvement in

knowledge to support the safe and effective use of medications and are

the treatment of hepatitis C?

a vital component of the healthcare team. But our influence extends

The SDM-CHOICE Program was one of the first pharmacist run

so much further than that. To me, being a pharmacist is also being an

programs in the world and early on, we realized the incredible

accessible support and navigator to those in need, helping to ensure

opportunity that we had to advance the role of the pharmacist in

people don’t fall through the cracks in a complicated system. 

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Ubaka Ogbogu

Dr. Ubaka Ogbogu named a Trudeau Foundation Fellow ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR CHOSEN FOR HIS EXPERTISE IN ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF BIOTECHNOLOGY

BY HELEN METELLA, originally published by the Faculty of Law

Associate Professor, Dr. Ubaka Ogbogu,

through its scholarship, fellowship and

ethical issues associated with stem cell

a health law scholar in both the Faculty

mentorship programs.

research, gene and engineered gene therapies,

of Law and the Faculty of Pharmacy and

Dr. Ogbogu believes his selection speaks

biobanks, germline gene editing and assisted

Pharmaceutical Sciences, has been named a

to the strength of the University of Alberta’s

fellow of the prestigious Pierre Elliott Trudeau

Health Law program. He is only the second

Foundation for 2020 to 2023.

professor from the Faculty of Law to be chosen

Law and Science Policy at UAlberta, and chair

by the Foundation; the first, in 2015, was fellow

of the university’s Research Ethics Board No. 2.

Dr. Ogbogu, who is an authority on the ethical, legal and societal implications of novel

Health Law scholar Timothy Caulfield, director

and emerging biotechnologies, was one of four

of the university’s Health Law Institute.

reproductive technologies.

He is the Katz Research Fellow in Health

He is also a member of the Council of Canadian Academies Expert Panel on Somatic

scholars, and the only one from the University

“Timothy Caulfield was my mentor and

of Alberta, chosen to focus on the foundation’s

taught me most of what I know about the link

member of the Canadian Institutes of Health

new scientific theme for the next three years —

between research and engaged leadership.”

Research (CIHR) Stem Cell Oversight

technology and ethics.

Excited to be called upon for his skills, Dr.

Gene and Engineered Cell Therapies; a

Committee; and a member of the International

Ogbogu also finds the foundation’s mission

Society for Stem Cell Research Task Force on

and genetic technology and the ethical issues

— to empower scholars to have a meaningful

Guidelines for Stem Cell Research and Clinical

surrounding them,” said Dr. Ogbogu. “The

impact on the world — highly appealing.

Translation.

“I’ll be leading training on gene therapy

focus includes technical issues pertaining

“I think the work we do as academics

Previously, he served on the Council of

to biotechnology and the incorporation of

should not live in the ivory towers but should

Canadian Academies Expert Panel on Medical

artificial intelligence in the area of healthcare,

transcend them to touch communities we don’t

Assistance in Dying, and as a member of the

and that’s my area of expertise.”

deal with directly,” he said. “My mission is to

Canadian Institutes of Health Research Gov-

have my voice heard outside these four walls.”

erning Council’s Standing Committee on Ethics.

In its announcement, the Foundation said, “With the ongoing, ever-changing

Dr. Ogbogu has researched ethics and

Dr. Ogbogu begins his Trudeau Foundation

circumstances stemming from the proliferation

biotechnologies since 2005, but as a

of COVID-19, this area of research will be

multidisciplinary scholar his work cuts

more relevant than ever to our community,

across numerous fields, including health

by it,” said Dr. Ogbogu. “The fellows are a list

domestically and internationally.”

law, bioethics, science policy, science and

of who’s who in Canadian academics, brilliant

technology, public health, legal history and

names. To be among them is very exciting.

legal philosophy.

It really shows I’ve come a long way in

Since 2001, the Trudeau Foundation has trained foremost researchers, from Canada and abroad, to develop into influential leaders

fellowship this summer.

“It’s quite significant and I feel very humbled

His publications have explored legal and

one field.” 

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

19

IN THE MORTAR

EDUCATION ABROAD WITH DR. MICHAEL DOSCHA

K

In 2005, Dr. Michael Doschak was recruited to the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical

To cap it off, our pharmacy students are the

Sciences by then Dean, Dr. Franco Pasutto. Doschak had just completed his Industrial Fellowship with the

brightest minds in Canada, and the finest

Canadian biotech company, Millenium Biologix Corporation, working with its biologic drug division in Mississauga,

colleagues to share this experience with,

Ontario on artificial implantable bone scaffolds. It was his research in bone health after drug intervention with the rapidly developing preclinical micro-Computed Tomography technology that caught Dean Pasutto’s attention – an

as they support and help each other so that no one feels alone on this journey towards becoming a professional pharmacist

area of research that was not yet present at the University of Alberta. Fifteen years later, Doschak is a Professor

or researcher.

and Assistant Dean, International at the Faculty.

How many countries does the Faculty

What is your role as Assistant Dean,

CRS chapter in Canada. The position with

International?

our Faculty is important to me as it provides

My role, and that of our Faculty International

me with my first experience as a member of a

Committee, is to support the Dean by

faculty administrative unit, as leadership at the

providing suggestions and initiatives towards

university level is something that I have always

the development and implementation of the

aspired to meet.

Faculty’s international strategic direction.

Why is the Faculty of Pharmacy

Direct examples would include initiatives

and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the

aimed at strengthening international student and faculty engagement within research in pharmacy practice and the pharmaceutical sciences, collaboration and recruitment to our Faculty, or to develop opportunities for increasing global learning relating to the undergraduate programs and research with our Faculty.

What made you want to take on this

University of Alberta a great place for international students to receive an education?

There are many compelling reasons, the first being the proven experience of our faculty professoriate and teaching staff, with their cumulative strength in pharmacy practice teaching and pharmaceutical sciences innovation. Secondly, our classroom and lab

currently have relationships with?

Our faculty currently maintains academic relationships with pharmacy schools in 16 countries and on every continent, except Antarctica. Our strongest partnerships involve the exchange of professors and students from pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences faculties in Japan, Egypt, China, Italy, Qatar, Brazil and Taiwan.

What are you working on right now that you are excited about?

We are currently developing a mechanism whereby our Faculty can deliver our Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree to students in China, Hong Kong, and Australia. Many countries do not currently offer the PharmD degree coursework, and as such, this represents an opportunity for our faculty to increase

position? Why is it important to you?

facilities, and instructional delivery are state-

Over the course of my academic career,

of-the-art. Not only do we have dedicated

I have been involved both nationally and

lecture theatres, compounding and dispensing

internationally with many leadership

labs, there are also dozens of patient

committee initiatives, including my role as

counseling and problem-based learning rooms,

three years we have managed to develop

Secretary and then Chair of the International

each equipped with monitors, technology, and

consistent international exchanges of highly

Chapters Committee with the international

legacy photographs and memorabilia of past

qualified personnel between Edmonton and

Controlled Release Society (CRS), as well

pharmacy classes to remind us all that we are

Chiba, Japan. In October 2019, we hosted two

as Secretary and then President of the local

learning in a culture of academic excellence.

Japanese professors for one month in residence

20

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

global engagement and learning in advanced patient-centered pharmacy practice.

In terms of bench research, over the past

IN THE MORTAR

CURRENT INTERNATIONAL PHARMACY PROGRAMS These relationships were built over decades by current and former Deans, faculty, and staff at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences to advance pharmacy education in our faculty and around the world.

ITALY COURSE: Every year, 15 to 20 students from our third-year undergraduate pharmacy program have the opportunity to attend a three week elective course Dr. Michael Doschak (left) with Dr. Hirotoshi Echizen (right) at Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Japan in December 2019.

at the University of Naples Federico II (founded in the year 1224). The students participate with instructors from both institutions on a program entitled “Intercultural Exploration of Pharmacy & Health”, including the beneficial impact of the Mediterranean diet.

with our pharmaceutical sciences researchers.

That followed on from graduate student and

CHINA PHARMACEUTICAL UNIVERSITY (CPU): Following a Memorandum of

postdoctoral fellowship placements from Japan

Understanding (MoU) established with CPU, and financially supported by the

with our faculty the past 12 months, and soon

China Scholarship Council (CSC), the Faculty’s undergraduate pharmacy program

we will be sending our Canadian graduate

provides two reserved seats for the top CPU students to experience and confer

students to study and conduct lab bench

a pharmacy degree at the University of Alberta.

research in Japan! That activity has brought a fresh energy to our lab research and forged new research collaboration that will surely lead to new opportunities in pharmaceutical

TAJEN UNIVERSITY IN TAIWAN: Visitation of 15 to 20 Tajen U undergraduate students and faculty preceptors to Edmonton to introduce them to the pharmacy research environment and profession in Alberta.

sciences discovery.

AHRAM CANADIAN UNIVERSITY IN EGYPT: Following the first MoU in

What’s next for international

November 2008, this relationship facilitates student exchange in pharmacy and

programs at the Faculty?

pharmaceutical sciences education for the top Egyptian pharmacy undergrads

Clearly, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly

with our program.

arrested the momentum of our Faculty’s international activities. Many scheduled

BRAZIL DUAL DEGREE: This initiative, developed with the Universidade de

exchanges and initiatives were suspended

São Paulo, the largest Brazilian public university, enables students from Brazil

to ensure the safety of those involved.

to commence their pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences education in Brazil,

However, our international relationships

and subsequently continue and complete their graduate studies at the University

remain strong and compelling, and as

of Alberta in order to earn a dual-degree — one from Brazil and the second

such, we hope for a speedy resumption of

from Canada.

our intended activities. Those include the undergraduate Italy Course with the University

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE): This MoU has established up to five seats for

of Naples, the Chiba Engine program of

Emirati sponsored students to enter the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program

up to 10 visiting pharmaceutical sciences

at the University of Alberta.

students to Edmonton, the visitation of Meiji Pharmaceutical University and Josai University

TAIHO JAPAN FUND: The Taiho fund was established to promote research in

pharmacy students to Edmonton, and

the pharmaceutical sciences between the Faculty with a partner university in

hopefully a renewal of the China Scholarship

Japan. It has facilitated staff and student exchange with over five Japanese

Council (CSC)-funded China Pharmaceutical

universities, including Chiba U, Hokkaido U, Toho U, Meiji U, Josai U, and others.

University (CPU) undergraduate pharmacy

This endowment from the Taiho Pharmaceutical Corporation in Japan followed

student enrolment into our entry-to-practice

the success of our Faculty’s past professor Dr. Ron Micetich’s drug discovery

PharmD academic program. 

and patenting of Tazobactam, subsequently licensed to Taiho Pharma. www.bioalberta.com/ron-micetich THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

21

IN THE MORTAR

PHARMACY IN TRIPOLI LEBANON EMELIE EL HAGE COMPLETES A PHARMACY ROTATION WHERE SHE GREW UP

to learn more about it and take on a clinical

hospital units, she says that all the charting

hospital pharmacist role, which is a fairly new

was still handwritten on paper, which put her

concept there. It required a number of hours

deciphering skills to the test.

to plan and coordinate; however, it all became

“As you can imagine, they use different

possible thanks to several faculty members,

brands of medications than we do here, and

as well as my preceptor Dr. Elie Nehme, who

physicians rarely wrote orders using generic

agreed to take me on as a student despite his

drug names,” says El Hage. “One of the biggest

extremely heavy workload.”

learning curves of my rotation became reading

Though she loves Canada and is grateful to

the orders and being able to check them for

be living here, El Hage says she still has a very

accuracy and safety when I could barely figure

deep and personal attachment to her country

out the drug that was written. This challenge

of birth, and it was “a dream come true” to

then turned into an interesting learning

practice pharmacy there.

experience by the end of my placement, as it

“The ability to study and practice pharmacy in my native language, as well as give back to the community I grew up in, was both

taught me several new drug names and brands used in other parts of the world.”

The other change in practice that surprised

rewarding and challenging,” says El Hage.

her was the way medication was distributed at

“One of the greatest challenges I encountered

the hospital. “Five pharmacy technicians were

was having to speak Arabic and French,

the stars of the show!” says El Hage. “They

melie El Hage (BSc Pharm 2020) was

Lebanon’s two official languages. Studying in

did everything ranging from receiving orders

born and raised in Lebanon until she

Canada made me realize just how rusty my

to packaging them. They would manually

moved to Edmonton with her family at

Arabic had gotten. Although the therapeutics

package and send the medications up to the

the age of 10. In her fourth year of study, she

were generally the same, receiving prescriptions

units, as they did not have any fancy machinery

returned to Lebanon for the summer, but

in French and counselling patients in Arabic

to complete these tasks. It was fascinating

unlike her usual visits — when she travelled

were big challenges I had to overcome.

to watch and learn how the dispensary ran,

to spend time with extended family and

Fortunately, by the end of the rotation, I was

especially because it is starkly different than how

childhood friends — she was there to complete

able to strengthen my communication skills

things are done in hospitals within Canada.”

pharmacy course PHARM 455 abroad.

in both these languages again.” She says her

BY KALYNA HENNIG

E

The experience of working in clinical

rotation in Lebanon not only provided her an

hospital pharmacy where it was still new meant

students to build their own rotation, which

opportunity to improve her language skills, but

that other healthcare professionals and patients

consists of finding a site and a preceptor,

has broadened her ability to help patients from

were not yet used to having El Hage — or other

building a learning plan and completing

many different cultural backgrounds.

pharmacists — around. “We are incredibly

The specialty elective course encourages

assigned activities that are evaluated by the

El Hage attributes much of the value of

lucky to have such a vast scope of practice here

preceptor. Upon their return, the student

her rotation to her preceptor, Dr. Nehme.

in Alberta, and be welcomed and appreciated

puts together a presentation for the course

“He is an incredible mentor, pharmacist, and

on an interdisciplinary team,” says El Hage.

coordinator. El Hage, who convocated this

advocate in the pharmacy world. His strides

“This eye-opening experience gave me a

June with the Class of 2020, chose to complete

to advocate and develop a hospital pharmacy

strong desire to advocate for pharmacists

these requirements via a month-long hospital

practice in a country where hospital pharmacy

everywhere, especially in Lebanon. I want to

rotation in Lebanon. Her placement began

is not as far advanced as Canada’s made him

show just how much value and expertise we

in June of 2019 at the small private hospital,

a strong leader and an incredible teacher. His

can bring to the team in order to improve the

Nini Hospital, in Lebanon’s second largest city,

passion for hospital pharmacy and teaching

health of our patients! In the future, whether I

Tripoli. Since her first year in the pharmacy

pushed me to learn and helped me develop

practice in Canada or in Lebanon, my goal is

program, El Hage had her sights set on

skills essential to provide patients with the best

to educate the public and other professionals

completing a specialty rotation, though she

possible healthcare,” says El Hage.

on what we know and what we can do. I believe

didn’t realize it would be an international one.

In comparison to Canadian pharmacy

that we are often overlooked as pharmacists

practice, El Hage’s experiences at Nini

and many see us as ‘pill counters’ when there

than the one we know here in Canada,” says

Hospital led to some learning curves due to

is so much we do behind the scenes to help

El Hage. “I wanted an in-depth experience

differing resources and protocols. On the

our patients — because we too save lives!” 

“Lebanon has a very different health system

22

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

IN THE MORTAR

PHARMACY IN KOBE AND TOKYO JA PA N

KURT WECKESSER PUTS HIS CULTURAL AND LINGUISTIC SKILLS TO THE TEST WHILE PRACTICING PHARMACY ABROAD BY: KALYNA HENNIG

K

urt Weckesser

healthcare is still very centred on doctors,”

(PharmD 2021) is

says Weckesser. “We are extremely lucky that

eager to apply his

the stars aligned ever so precisely to allow us

knowledge of Japanese

to practice the way we do as pharmacists in

culture and language in

Alberta.” While there, he could clearly see

his life, so when the opportunity to practice

how pharmacists prescribing, adapting, and

pharmacy in Japan presented itself, he couldn’t

renewing medications provides a huge relief

pass it up. In the summer of 2019, Weckesser

on a medical system.

Other challenges to tackle on the job

spent three months working as a student pharmacist in both Tokyo and Kobe. The

included seemingly smaller tasks, like finding

non-credit internship (planned by a contact

medication on the shelves. “It’s a lot harder

not affiliated with the University of Alberta)

when it is a different language governed by

was supported by the Faculty of Pharmacy

not one, but four different alphabets,” he says.

and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

However, his learning curve also had some

Weckesser’s opportunity to work outside

benefits. “Practicing as a young Caucasian

of Canadian pharmacy practice found him

adult in a largely monoethnic population

in three different settings: a traditional

such as Kobe, Japan gets you a free lunch or

Chinese Medicine pharmacy, Kobe General

two,” says Weckesser. “Plus, I was able to do

Hospital, and a major chain pharmacy called

something that not many people can say they

Kokokarafine in Tokyo. He also presented at

have, as well as make a lot more friends and

universities, hospitals, and companies about

valuable connections as a result.”

the role of a pharmacist in Alberta, Canadian

In the future, Weckesser says he wants to

healthcare, and his journey as a student

keep interprofessional collaboration in the

pharmacist. His participation ranged from

forefront of his practice. “We need to foster

shadowing pharmacists to counselling patients

healthy working relationships with physicians

on medication usage, depending upon his

and other healthcare professionals to best help

preceptor’s confidence and his own skill level,

our patients,” he says. When he graduates with

which steadily progressed over the course of

his Doctor of Pharmacy in 2021, he intends to

his internship.

continue to support change and collaboration

“I went to Japan with the purpose of trying

in pharmacy practice. “We have the scope that

to get as much experience as possible. And it

we have now because of great cooperation

was an amazing opportunity,” says Weckesser.

between pharmacists and the government,

“I was exposed to a very different way of

and this is something that we need to keep

operating which both affirmed and challenged

pursuing,” says Weckesser. “Pharmacists are

previously held notions, such as the use of

able to contribute so much to practice, and

technology in pharmacy and the importance of

not putting them in the game is like sidelining

a practitioner-patient relationship.”

one of your best players in a playoff game. My

He says the experience helped him to realize

experience in Japan helped reaffirm a sense

how lucky Alberta’s pharmacists are to have

of pride in what we can do in Alberta, and I

such an advanced scope of practice. “In

am excited to be able to graduate and practice

Japan, the scope is much more limited, and

within a scope that allows me to help change many patients’ lives.” 

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

23

FEATURES

ONE FACULTY’S FOOTPRINT

24

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

THE FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES AROUND THE WORLD

FEATURES

Our graduate students represent 13 countries.

was and is a prominent school of pharmacy that hired many professors who obtained their degrees from the USA and Canada. Reflecting back on those years, I realized that some of those professors provided

HEBA AREF

me with more than an academic experience — they provided me

is from Cairo, Egypt. She arrived in

with extracurricular activities that helped me realize my research and

Edmonton on January 11th, 2019.

communication skills. Specifically, they provided a psychology course,

What are you working on at the Faculty?

I am a graduate research assistant working under the supervision of Dr. Lisa Guriguis on several projects. One of these projects is patient-oriented health and medication literacy research that involves seniors. That was an eye-opener for me, to know how community members could be

which was not common among pharmacy schools at that time. That course made me realize my passion for social and psychological theories that could play a role in healthcare settings. This is exactly what I am studying now! After that, I worked in a privately owned university that used to bring many American professors who reinforced my passion and desire to study in North America, as I saw in them rigorous academic traits weaved with amazing professional development skills.

active partners in health research to obtain improved health outcomes

What is your favourite part about Cairo? My favorite memory in

and an enhanced healthcare system. We are trying to engage patients

my country is walking in the early morning and late at night where

in research to improve the degree of relevance of research and to get a

many stores, restaurants, and cafes are opened for the public. In Cairo,

better level of knowledge translation to policy and practice. That would

the streets are alive 24/7! And my favorite place is the amazing North

consequently lead to a more effective healthcare system and a better

Coast and the Red Sea area in Egypt. Egypt is so unique in that, despite

quality of life for Canadians. Another project I am working on is related

not being as large in area as Canada, every region has its own culture,

to the quality of qualitative research in community pharmacy which

clothes, foods, music, and even a dialect! I have that dream that one

aims at advancing the meaningfulness and rigor of such research that

day we can have a Faculty tourist group travel to Egypt for two or three

gives a voice to patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals.

weeks. I would be happy to guide that group to amazing North Coast,

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? The University of Alberta was my dream for almost eight years before I joined it! I had many colleagues here, and I was amazed by its global rankings as an academic institution. However, my destiny drove me to get my second master’s degree in the USA. After that, I wanted to join a strong academic

historical South Egypt, and the fascinating desert in the West part of Egypt.

As for my favourite tradition, I love large, loud family gatherings eating lots and lots of different foods on the same table. Especially ricestuffed grape leaves — Mahshi Waraa Enab — with Greek tzatziki dip.

institution that would provide me with a rigorous research training and a

What is your favourite thing about being in Edmonton? My favorite

good scholarly experience. Dr. Guirguis’ unique experience and training

thing about Canada is the diversity and inclusiveness of all nationalities

in using social theories in healthcare research was the main empowering

and religions. For some reason, I’m in love with the maple leaves and

force behind my application for the PhD program here.

all their sizes and different colors! My favourite thing about UAlberta

How has your background influenced your work? I was raised in a diverse inclusive community that includes many nationalities, such as Italian, Greek, English, and French citizens. They all came to Egypt

is the solid cohort of highly distinguishable professors, especially in our Faculty. I feel so proud when I read about the great scientific achievements of our faculty.

in early times, found something beautiful in Egypt, and resided there for generations. I, myself, was raised in an Armenian School that was one of many schools established primarily to serve their communities residing in Egypt. I was privileged to receive my Bachelor of Science in pharmaceutical sciences from Ain Shams University (ASU). That

Our alumni are currently living in 39 countries around the world.

Australia, Bangladesh, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Dominica, Egypt, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Poland, Qatar, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Venezuela

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

25

FEATURES MAHMOUD ELGHATY

YASHITA SINGH

is from Tanta, Egypt. He arrived

is from Chandigarh, India. She arrived

in Edmonton in January 2019.

in Edmonton in the Fall of 2019.

What are you working on at the Faculty? I

What are you working on at the

am a second-year PhD student studying the

Faculty? I’m a master’s student here at

effects of heavy metals on drug metabolizing

Dr. Tony Kiang’s lab, which specializes

enzymes in Dr. Ayman El-Kadi’s laboratory.

in pharmacokinetics, translational

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? I strongly believe that the University of Alberta is an ideal institution for producing a full-fledged scientist through its high-end research and training facilities as well as its bright faculty members. Research here involves an extremely broad

pharmacotherapy and pharmacogenomics of xenobiotics. My project is based on the therapeutic drug monitoring of mycophenolic acid in renal transplant patients using newer and potentially more efficient methods of monitoring, so as to increase the quality of life for the patient.

approach, ranging from molecular basis to the rapidly evolving domain

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? Studying in Canada

of translational research. Such an interdisciplinary research environment

was always a dream for me, especially at the world renowned University

drives students not only to succeed but also to innovate. This is

of Alberta. So, when I saw that UAlberta was offering a master’s degree

effectively integrated in each faculty here, including ours.

in the field that I have always admired, pharmacy, I quickly arranged

How has your background influenced your work? My background is quite diverse. After receiving my Bachelor of Science degree in pharmaceutical sciences from Tanta University, I worked for a while in a community pharmacy. Afterwards, I joined the pharmacy department

my documents, forwarded them here and had an interview with my supervisor. I still remember the night of April 12, 2019, which also coincides with my dad’s birthday, as the day I got my official offer letter from the FGSR.

at Tanta Ophthalmic Hospital. Years later, I moved to Tanta Cancer

How has your background influenced your work? I’m really grateful

Center to work as a clinical pharmacist for three years. Meanwhile, I

to my previous university, Panjab University, in India, which helped me

was pursuing my master’s degree in clinical pharmacy. Once granted

gain the knowledge that was required for my journey here at UAlberta. I

the degree, I made a shift to academia where I worked as an assistant

believe that we learn step-by-step and day-by-day, which always counts at

lecturer at Delta University for Science and Technology, and later at

the end. My bachelor’s and the culture from my country has taught me

Kafrelsheikh University.

the principles that a pharmacist should reflect upon, the skills that would

What is your favourite part about Tanta? My favourite part about my life back home, that I really miss, is the warmth of gatherings with family and friends. However, my solace is that, here in Canada, I always meet new people, and I have made a lot of new friends from around the globe.

What is your favourite thing about being in Edmonton? My favourite thing in Edmonton, and I believe across Canada, is its fascinating natural beauty seen in the parks, mountains, river valley, and wildlife. I also like how friendly and diverse the people are here. This is also clearly reflected in the student community

help me take leadership roles on my project here and the humanity that, we, as people of the healthcare professions, should always have in our conscience.

What is your favourite thing about Chandigarh? It’d definitely be my birthday and the famous Indian festival of lights, Diwali. Every year, we celebrate Diwali with new hopes and aspirations. My last Diwali in India was in 2018, and I remember how happy I was, bursting firecrackers, eating sweets, pranking my cousins, and just having a really good time.

The thing that made me nostalgic this year was how people in Canada celebrate their Christmas. I saw the same positivity and excitement here as I saw in people of my country on Diwali. And I’d say that I loved celebrating my first Christmas in Canada, and that includes the fireworks at the Alberta Legislature building on New Year’s Eve too.

Pharmacy has 16 international undergraduate students that represent 10 countries.

Spain, Egypt, Vietnam, India, Syrian Arab Republic, Nigeria, Kuwait, China, Republic of Korea

What is your favourite thing about being in Edmonton? I have a lot of things that I find amazing about Canada, but unfortunately, it’s not the weather. But I do like going to the Whyte Ave on a Friday night after work, watching snow as it silently falls to the ground, the UofA Green & Gold day, the HUB mall, walking on the High Level bridge, going to WEM on Black Friday, and my morning coffee from Tim’s.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

FEATURES JAVIERA NAVARRETE MARTINEZ

MOHAMMED ALQAHTANI

is from Santiago, Chile. She arrived

is from Saudi Arabia. He arrived in

in Edmonton in September 2018. She

Edmonton in 2018.

remembers being pleasantly surprised by the good weather, but being shocked that the worst was yet to come, with windchills below -35°C.

What are you working on at the Faculty?

I am a master’s student, and I’m working in Dr. Ayman El-Kadi’s lab to investigate the potential interactions between heavy metals

What are you working on at the Faculty?

and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligands

I am a master’s student in the Pharmacy

that ubiquitously exist in the environment.

Practice department, currently working on an international comparison of community pharmacists’ roles in sexual and reproductive health between Canada, Alberta, Japan, and Thailand.

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? I was influenced by many professors during my undergraduate years to pursue graduate studies; luckily, I met with many UAlberta alumni who gave me plenty of

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? I wanted to study

recommendations to study here, but unfortunately, they did not have the

abroad to expand my vision about pharmacy practice and to gain tools

chance to mention that winter hits Edmonton almost all year around.

to do research in the future so I could contribute to my home country’s health development. When I started looking at different options, I found Dr. Christine Hughes’ research area, and she was not only a great match, but also working with someone I looked up to.

How has your background influenced your work? I come from South America, where the cultural and social context is totally different from what you see here in Canada. After my rotations and working one year at a public hospital, I realized working and helping our communities is what I am passionate about. I feel there is a lot to contribute to this less

How has your background influenced your work? During high school I did well in chemistry and biology, so that led me to choose pharmacy school.

What is your favourite part about Saudi Arabia? Soccer is as popular in Saudi Arabia as hockey is in Canada. In Riyadh — the hottest city in Saudi — my friends and I used to collect money to get a ball and play soccer down the street while the temperature was around 45°C. We had too much fun doing that.

explored field in Chile.

What is your favourite thing about being here?

What is your favourite thing about Santiago? My favourite thing

There is an excellent working environment in the

about Chile is when we celebrate the beginning of the Chilean independence process. It is for almost a week in September, when spring starts, so I remember sharing with my family and friends, playing

lab, and the faculty always enhances my productivity.

traditional games, and eating authentic Chilean food all week.

What is your favourite thing being in Edmonton? I love how multicultural Canada is. I have met people from all over the world, and that is such an enriching experience. I love Edmonton’s nature; it looks different in all seasons. My favourite thing about UAlberta and the Faculty are the facilities we have to study and do our research, and the friendly environment I have felt anywhere I go.

There are at least 23 languages spoken by faculty, staff, and students at the Faculty today.

Chinese, Arabic, Yoruba, Bengali, Russian, Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi, Spanish, Portuguese, Somali, Welsh, English, German, French, Farsi, Armenian, Vietnamese, Korean, Indonesian, Polish, Ukrainian, and Turkish

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27

FEATURES SHAMIMA PARVIN is from Bagerhat, Bangladesh.

Our Faculty and Staff Members represent 7 countries

She arrived in Edmonton in 2010.

What are you working on at the Faculty?

I am a master’s student studying the effects of obesity on the pharmacokinetics of local anesthetics in rats and humans. I have been

DR. SHERIF HANAFY MAHMOUD, Clinical Associate Professor, is from Cairo, Egypt. He arrived in Edmonton 15 years ago, in 2005.

developing assays to allow the drugs to be

What do you do at the Faculty? I am a

measured in biological samples. This will

Clinical Associate Professor. In addition, I

be followed up with pharmacokinetic and drug metabolism studies in

am a neurocritical care clinical pharmacist.

obese and lean rats, and possibly humans. I am expected to graduate in the summer of 2021.

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? I initially came to Canada to pursue my PhD in

Why did you choose the University of Alberta? As soon as I moved

Pharmacokinetics under the supervision of Dr. Fakhreddin Jamali at the

to Canada from Bangladesh, I started taking initiative to become a

Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. In the meantime, I

licensed Pharmacist. I worked in Loblaw Pharmacy for most of my

got my license to practice pharmacy in Canada, where I practiced at the

career. After having some experience in community pharmacy, I

University of Alberta Hospital. Then, I joined the Faculty to satisfy my

wanted to explore other career opportunities. I always believe in living

passion for teaching and research in such an amazing institution.

in full potential and being a better version of myself everyday. Research naturally attracts me. The University of Alberta is renowned for its

How has your background influenced your work? Similar to many

contribution to research. Therefore, it is the perfect fit.

parts the world, in Egypt, pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare

How has your background influenced your work? I completed my

fascinating. As a result, I always wanted to be a pharmacist. I was the

Bachelor of Pharmacy from Khulna University, Bangladesh. I had a

first member of my family to go to pharmacy school. I received my

Bachelor of Science thesis project from which I published research

pharmacy degree from Ain-Shams University, one of the top pharmacy

articles with the help of my supervisor, who at that time was Md.

schools in Egypt. I was ranked the top of my class among 2000

Amirul Islam, PhD. Research always motivates me. I was always

graduates.

inspired by my parents and my brothers to pursue my dreams. My current supervisor, Dr. Dion Brocks, guides me every step of the way.

Last but not the least, my lab-mate and friend, Hamdah Al Nebaihi, is

practitioners helping patients manage their medications, which I found

What is your favourite thing about Egypt? I love Alexandria, a city in Egypt located by the Mediterranean Sea. Alexandria used to be home of

a perfect example of a good researcher.

the Light House, one of the old seven wonders of the world. My parents

What is your favourite part about Bagerhat? Within 75 kilometers

I love the sea, food, people, and everything there. I like how seafood is

of my home we have the world’s largest mangrove forest, Sundarbans.

prepared in Egypt which, in my opinion, has the most flavourful seafood

Sundarbans is also the only habitat of the Royal Bengal Tiger, a unique

dishes in the world.

and ferocious species. Sundarbans is a World Heritage site and an

are from Alexandria and we used to stay there for months every year.

important tourist attraction on earth.

What is your favourite thing about being in Edmonton? I enjoy living

What’s your favourite thing about being in Edmonton? Edmonton is

than large cities yet still has many

very green in the summer. The North Saskatchewan River reminds me

of the amenities of big cities. 

of my childhood memory on the bank of the river Bhairab in Bagerhat. l like every bit of Edmonton. The diversity is also welcoming for any background, culture, and practice.

It gives me the feel of being at home away from home.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

in Edmonton. I call it the “small big city” — quieter

FEATURES

THE CARIBBEAN CONNECTIONS

Francis Burnett

DR. JOHN BACHYNSKY LAYS THE GROUNDWORK FOR CARIBBEAN COLLABORATION IN PHARMACY EDUCATION

Pamela Payne

EXCERPT FROM THE INDISPENSABLE HISTORY OF THE FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA 1914-2018 From 1976 to 1990, Dr. John Bachynsky, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences from 1981 to 1989, and Professor Emeritus, was actively involved with the Americas Region of the Commonwealth Pharmaceutical Association and made many trips to the Caribbean for meetings. He was a visiting professor at the Barbados Community College and taught pharmacy administration and business courses on several occasions.

While on his trips, Dr. Bachynsky met pharmacists that were interested in coming to Canada to continue their education from diplomas in pharmacy to degrees. To accommodate these practitioners,

the Caribbean. Honourees enjoy the right to use and be addressed by the title Caribbean Pharmacist Primus (CPP).

PAMELA PAYNE Pamela Payne worked in Barbados as a pharmacist with the Drug Benefit program, receiving the Caribbean Student Award from Burroughs Welcome Inc. in 1988. She travelled to Edmonton and received her degree from the University of Alberta in 1989. Payne was promoted soon after her return home to the role of Deputy-inCommand of the program for drug and supplementary health benefit coverage.

ERROL THOMAS

they were granted course credits for their prior work, so they were

Errol Thomas was the Director of Pharmacy for the Commonwealth

able to graduate with one or two years of additional education at the

of Dominica, an island located between the two French Islands of

University of Alberta.

Martinique and Guadeloupe. The French Government had built a new

FRANCIS BURNETT The first Caribbean pharmacy student to come to Edmonton, Francis Burnett, arrived in 1987. He was a pharmacist from St. Lucia who successfully obtained his degree at the University of Alberta and returned to direct the Eastern Caribbean purchasing program. In 2006, Burnett was given an award to honour pharmacists who had a unique, transforming, and enduring influence on the profession of pharmacy in

hospital and, as the hospital was getting more patients and an influx of new drugs, Thomas wanted to better serve the patients with proficient pharmaceutical care. Therefore, he came to Canada to seek a degree and enrolled in the Pharmacy Class of 1991. Thomas is now the Chief Pharmacist of the Ministry of Health at the Government Headquarters in Roseau, Dominica.

ROCHELLE BASTIAN From the Bahamas, Rochelle Bastian was an excellent student whose diploma was based on the old apothecary system, which included a couple years in general education followed by apprenticeships at different pharmacies to learn medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, and pharmacology. She was sponsored by the University of Alberta and the Bahama Pharmacy Program to attend the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Edmonton. Upon returning to the Bahamas, she recommended that an agreement be entered into to ensure Bahamian and other Caribbean students could get their pharmacy degrees in

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29

FEATURES North America. Her recommendation was accepted, and most students now enroll at the Florida A&M College of Pharmacy. Bastian now manages a drug store in the Bahamas, and faculty member Jody Shkrobot (BSc Pharm 1996) was lucky enough to have rotation there as an undergraduate student. ï‚¢

Dean Bachynsky was a key player in the development of a common pharmacy curriculum and standardized testing in the Caribbean. He established professional and educational links with the pharmacy schools and represented the Canadian Pharmaceutical Association (CPhA) at regional meetings of the Commonwealth Pharmaceutical Association.

The Canadian Deans of Pharmacy, of which Dean Bachynsky was a part, worked with four Caribbean pharmacy schools to adopt a uniform diploma curriculum. This process was funded by the Pan American Health Conference.

The Association of Faculties of Pharmacy of Canada received $50,000 dollars in funds from the federal government (CIDA) to send Canadians to different Caribbean pharmacy schools to help them implement more advanced pharmacy courses.

This was done for several years, and a number of pharmacy staff took part, including then faculty member Dr. David Biggs. As a result of the teaching initiative, the CPhA agreed to supply copies of all its Canadian pharmacy publications to the pharmacy schools to build up their libraries of pharmacy educational materials.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

BUILDING THE JAPAN-ALBERTA ALLIANCE

A HISTORY OF PHARMACY EDUCATION COLLABORATION WITH JAPAN EXCERPT FROM THE INDISPENSABLE HISTORY OF THE FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA 1914-2018

FEATURES

IN 1980, DR. BAN — a leader in Japanese

led to the Alberta-Toho University agreement,

Alberta to attend a study-tour program called

pharmaceutical research, the President of the

which promoted collaboration with respect to

the Pharmacy Service Symposium (PSS).

Japan Pharmaceutical Society, and Dean of

research and academic programs. President

Four different groups enrolled in the one-

Pharmacy at the University of Hokkaido —

Myer Horowitz and Mr. M. Funakoshi from

week venture. On later visits to Japan, it

sought to promote a collaborative Hokkaido-

the University of Alberta and Toho University,

was noted that some of the concepts the

Alberta agreement between the two

respectively, signed an agreement on

Japanese pharmacy owners had observed

universities, launching the Faculty of Pharmacy

June 30, 1987.

in Alberta had been incorporated into their

and Pharmaceutical Sciences on a fruitful

At the suggestions of Dean Koyama, an

pharmacy activities.

journey of alliance with Japan’s best pharmacy

English as a Second Language (ESL) program

and pharmaceutical science schools that still

was initiated for Toho students and has

University of Hokkaido and was appointed

thrives today.

continued for over 30 years. Toho University

President. He immediately started promoting

went on to successfully introduce an upgraded

an agreement with the University of Alberta

national university, and at the time, the

clinical pharmacy education into what was

like the one that was demonstrating success at

President of Hokkaido would not support an

predominantly a science-oriented education.

Toho University. Founded in 1974, the Health

The University of Hokkaido was a Japanese

international agreement with the provincially

Many pharmacy staff and senior

Dr. Ban eventually returned to the

Sciences University at Hokkaido was a new

funded University of Alberta. However,

administration members from the University

private university that, like at the University of

when Dr. Ban retired from the University

of Alberta have visited Toho University, and

Alberta, contained a Faculty of Pharmacy and

of Hokkaido, he began consulting at Toho

there have been a number of pharmacists from

Pharmaceutical Sciences as well as a Faculty

University, as its Faculty of Pharmaceutical

Toho University that have come to Edmonton

of Dentistry. The Chairman of the Board was

Sciences was developing a graduate program

for informal training or to enroll in classes

the former Governor of Hokkaido who had

and making investments by erecting

over the years. Dr. John Bachynsky, professor

signed the Alberta-Hokkaido Agreement.

new buildings.

and former Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy

When a delegation came to the University of

and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University

Alberta and stood in front of the Dentistry/

at Toho University to visit Edmonton and

of Alberta, was a visiting professor at Toho

Pharmacy building, they were struck by the

evaluate the potential for linkage. Dean

University from 1994 to 2008, and on August

juxtaposition of both faculties coexisting in

Koyama came with Dr. Takehiko Yajima,

27, 2001 received an Honorary Doctoral

harmony and became inspired to develop their

a staff member who had completed his

Degree from Toho University for his support of

own University back in Hokkaido. Within a

postdoctoral training in the United States and

the program.

short time, the Health Sciences University of

In 1986, Dr. Ban convinced Dean Koyama

was fluent in English, and later became the Dean of Pharmacy at Toho University. This

Through Dean Koyama, a group of

Hokkaido entered into its own collaborative

pharmacy owners were encouraged to visit

agreement with the University of Alberta.

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31

LOOKING BACK

Soon after, Chiba University, also a national

Up until then, a large proportion of

the Faculty, as he was previously on faculty

university, signed an agreement with the

pharmacy school graduates went into the

with Toho University. When he was at Toho,

University of Alberta, and had the Japanese

pharmaceutical industry or government jobs

Yamaura showed an interest in pharmacy

government provide a grant to send one staff

doing pharmaceutical analysis, and patient

practice and visited Edmonton several times.

member each year to Edmonton, a practice

care was only practiced by pharmacists who

He was also active with the International

that continued for the next few years.

were employed by hospital pharmacies. To

Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), the Japanese

Another university connection was made

implement these new requirements, pharmacy

Pharmaceutical Association, and an informal

with the Meiji Pharmaceutical University in

programs at private universities were expanded

network of pharmacy educators in Southeast

Tokyo. On their 80th anniversary, as part

from four to six years. There was a shortage of

Asia. Dean Bachynsky was involved in this

of President Sakamoto’s plan to reach out

pharmacists with clinical skills and suitable

network as well and served as a source of

to pharmacy schools outside of Japan, they

practice sites, so the private university

institutional information and a historian of the

awarded a number of honorary PharmD

pharmacy schools were very excited to form

many collaborative programs.

degrees, including to University of Alberta

alliances with the University of Alberta to

faculty members Dr. Bachynsky and Dr.

train staff in patient care. Several pharmacists

also chose to further their education at the

Wiebe, as a recognition for the fruitful

came to the University of Alberta for a span

University of Alberta. Dr. Tomoko Watanabe,

collaboration between universities. They also

of one to two years. Personal relationships

a pharmacist who successfully managed a

sent students to Edmonton to study English.

were fostered and continue to this day with

major dispensary in Tokyo, was one of these

In 1986, the Japanese government made it

Many practicing pharmacists from Japan

Dr. Shigeo Yamamura and Dr. Yajima,

people. Through Dr. Shigeo Yamamura, she

compulsory for physicians to give patients a

amongst others, who have all supported and

arranged to attend the Faculty for a two-year

written prescription that would be filled at a

contributed to this international exchange.

term to learn about patient care in pharmacy.

pharmacy of their choice. Until then, patients

Some staff currently on faculty, including Dr.

Upon returning to Japan, she was employed as

were required to obtain medications exclusively

Christine Hughes, Dr. Terri Schindel, and Dr.

a lecturer at Toho University and finished her

from physicians and hospital outpatient

Nese Yuksel, have been to Japan on several

PhD. Similarly, Mizuko Takahashi, a clinical

pharmacies, not from community pharmacies.

occasions to teach the usefulness of case

pharmacist from Toho, spent time in Canada

As a result of the change, there was a major

studies as an investigative educational tool.

and returned to Japan as a pharmacy practice

growth in community pharmacies, and

The Japanese pharmacy connections also

instructor at Toho, and Keiji Mizuno, a senior

pharmacy schools responded to the changes

generated communication and collaboration

hospital pharmacist, obtained funding to visit

by revising their curriculum to focus more on

with the University of Alberta and the Faculty

North America and selected Edmonton and a

patient care.

of Extension. Dr. Shigeo Yamaura from Josai

US pharmacy school to complete his studies. 

International University initiated links with 32

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

FEATURES

WORKING TOGETHER, SIX FEET APART THE FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES IN THE WORLD’S FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

U of A pharmaceutical institute leads effort to fill looming hospital drug shortage

BY MICHAEL BROWN, originally published by folio.ca A University of Alberta-initiated institute is leading a provincewide effort to fill the looming shortage of drugs that are vital in the fight against COVID-19. Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation (API)—a not-for-profit institute housed within the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences to help commercialize pharmaceuticals—is co-ordinating labs across the Edmonton region to manufacture the drugs needed to put people on a ventilator.

“It’s an emerging issue that in the longer term will likely overtake the lack of ventilators and personal protective equipment as the primary barrier to caring for patients,” said Andrew MacIsaac, API CEO and Assistant Dean, Advancement in the Faculty.

“The shortage of these drugs is expected to continue over the next two years as COVID-19 wreaks havoc on typical supply and demand, and will be further compounded with the resumption of backlogged surgeries and other procedures.”

He said the two drugs API is focused on right now are propofol, an anesthetic, and cisatracurium, a muscle relaxant, that together are taken via IV by someone about to be put on a respirator.

“The primary one of the two is propofol, since it is more critical and shortages of it will affect much more than just COVID-19 patients as it is the drug for sedating someone in hospital for surgery,” said MacIsaac.

Photo by Julia Brown Photography

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33

FEATURES

M A R K E T O P P O RT U N I T Y

of the drugs, and aren’t something that they can move forward with.

He explained these drugs, which are largely manufactured overseas, have

Our network can produce at the level that is needed for clinical trials

become scarce thanks to exponential ventilator demand and a collapsing

and beyond.

supply chain.

“This crisis really drove home the need for Canadian-based manufacturing, but we’ve been flagging this gap for a long time,” said MacIsaac.

“As a result, we will be able to bring the treatments to Albertans and Canadians much more quickly.”

Besides the in-province drug production to support COVID-19 hospital patients, other COVID-19-related projects API is undertaking

He said much of the blueprint outlining the creation of API over

include developing a new antiviral drug based on past research on

a year ago was to take advantage of the province’s, and particularly

viruses of the same family, and launching a clinical trial for a new

Edmonton’s, petrochemical expertise to create a pharmaceutical

antiviral compound that targets more than just COVID-19 and is less

stronghold in Canada.

toxic, and therefore easier on the immune system.

The pharmaceutical industry is a natural fit for Alberta because a lot

it provides graduates from chemistry and chemical engineering with the

Edmonton-based pharmaceutical company partners up with the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences to find COVID-19 antiviral treatment

broad understanding of the processes and concepts that can be used in

BY DR. KEVIN MORIN

of the expertise the province has in the oil and gas sector easily translates to drug development, for a number of reasons, he said.

One reason is that the initial ingredients in many pharmaceuticals are petrochemicals and, just as important, because Alberta has been an oil and gas region for so long and the U of A conducts research in the area,

any sort of chemical manufacturing.

“What we’ve been working to do, especially as Alberta looks to diversify the economy, is show that drug development and manufacturing is something that the U of A and Edmonton have a lot of strength in already,” he said.

MacIsaac said that, along with Alberta Health Services and Health Canada, API is identifying drug shortages that will come as a result of COVID-19 and proactively building manufacturing in Alberta based on facilities at the U of A and a number of small companies in the Edmonton region.

“Alone we don’t have the capacity, but as a consortium, we’re able to pull together all the required components to manufacture drugs to meet shortages and likely provide enough of the ventilator drugs for the entire

This spring, Sunmor Research Inc., a pharmaceutical research and development company based in Edmonton, announced its intent to launch a clinical trial for a new antiviral product for COVID-19 with potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating activity.

The project has since gone forward in partnership with the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (FoPPS)-based institute, Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation (API). The multidisciplinary team — including faculty members Dr. Kevin Morin, Research Director for Sunmor Research Inc. and FoPPS Psychiatrist; Dr. Raimar Loebenberg, Professor and Director of API’s Drug Development and Innovation Centre (DDIC) at FoPPS; and Dr. Neal M. Davies, flavonoid expert as well as FoPPS Dean and Professor — are working to create a compound

Canadian market,” he said.

that is flavonoid-based (plant pigment-based), and could help to create a

C R I T I CA L CA PA C I T Y

on the immune system.

As for technologies developed at the U of A, MacIsaac said the

treatment that targets more than just COVID-19, is less toxic, and easier “SRI-331 is a unique flavonoid-based product that targets more than

current trend for researchers is to relocate to jurisdictions south of the

one specific SARS-CoV-2 viral-encoded gene product or enzyme,” says

border capable of developing drugs for initial clinical trials and then

Morin. “We hope to achieve a synergistic antiviral effect against the virus

larger production.

by targeting four unique targets while minimizing any resistance.” Most

That is set to change thanks to API and its partners, according to

importantly, Morin says that their formulation is specifically designed

MacIsaac. He said the institute and its partners have built the critical

to control the immune response during the illness to a more appropriate

capacity to take a lot of innovators in the early stages of COVID-19

and less toxic response.

research, and accelerate their programs by skipping over the time-

The team is eager to start clinical trials as soon as possible, and are

consuming searches for capacity and investment to bring their research

looking towards recruiting front line healthcare workers and those at

to the next level.

highest risk. “The science supporting this approach is robust, convincing

“Many researchers across all different faculties do some of the initial

and by combining our efforts at the University of Alberta at this

synthesis of the drugs that they’re researching, but they’re just prototypes

challenging time, we should all have a lot of hope,” says Morin.

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THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

FEATURES

Pharmacy students at the COVID Emergency Shelter as part of the Mint Health Drugs project at the Edmonton EXPO Centre.

Meanwhile, the Faculty has met all student inquiries with a personal response. “Students that do not feel comfortable being in a placement at the current time have the option of requesting a temporary leave. Or if they are symptomatic, they will not be allowed to work,” says Dr. Ravina Sanghera-Grewal, Assistant Dean of Programs and Student Services and Associate Professor. “In so many cases, though, our students are eager and dedicated to be serving their patients as part of the healthcare force right now.”

Pharmacy students serve patients, volunteer amidst COVID-19

BY KALYNA HENNIG While students across the University of Alberta moved to remote online classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic in early March,

First year pharmacy student, Kennedy Brook (PharmD 2023), returned to her home in Manitoba in March, where she is completing her courses online and choosing to work in her hometown pharmacy to lend a hand. “I feel fortunate to be able to return to my hometown and assist my local pharmacy in this confusing time,” says Brook. “I’m also so appreciative that the Faculty is being flexible and allowing me to stay on top of my studies from there.”

Other student pharmacists, like Dr. John Markowsky (PharmD

pharmacy students completing work placements from the Faculty

2020), were enthusiastic about staying at their preceptorship and

of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences during winter semester

supporting patients. “As a fourth-year pharmacy student who is months

remained dedicated to working in the field. Between the Faculty’s three

away from licensure and entering practice, the current COVID-19

pharmacy programs, 73 pharmacy students remained serving patients

pandemic has provided me with a learning experience that cannot be

in Alberta Health Services and Covenant Health hospital pharmacy

simulated in any sort of academic environment,” says Dr. Markowsky.

settings and another 66 remained in community pharmacies across

“By continuing to attend my clinical placement, I have had the

the province. The students, most of whom were in the final year of

opportunity to work under the direct supervision of top-notch pharmacy

their pharmacy degrees, were providing their medicinal and patient-

professionals and experience what it means to be a true leader and

care expertise alongside their fellow healthcare professionals amidst

professional in these trying times. While pharmacists are well known

COVID-19.

as experts in drug therapy, this experience is allowing me to learn and

“Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians from sea to sea are assisting Canadians in this pandemic. Our student pharmacists, if they are healthy and able, are dedicated to being part of that support,” says Dr.

practice first hand what it truly means to be a professional — stepping up and being there for the health of our patients no matter what.”

As the COVID-19 climate and regulations continue to evolve, student

Neal M. Davies, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical

work placements within hospitals have now been suspended, and are

Sciences. Work placements for pharmacy students are critical to the

shuffling to more community placements across the province. But even

transition of student pharmacist to licensed pharmacist. Pharmacists

as the realities of COVID-19 become harder to navigate, pharmacy

are some of Alberta’s most accessible and front-facing healthcare

students are still finding ways to serve their patients. Now, many

professionals, and they are facing much of the public’s fear, unease, and

students are providing behind the scenes medication care at the COVID

questions about the virus. For those students who are able to continue

Emergency Shelter as part of the Mint Health Drugs project at the

with their placements, they view this as a critical time to carry on with

Edmonton EXPO Centre.

patient-centred care to serve Albertans in their time of need.

The EXPO Centre — running 24 hours a day and 7 days a week

“While the current pandemic situation means infection precautions

— welcomes people who are experiencing homelessness, and has two

are of paramount importance, we also know pharmacists, including our

purposes: an isolation shelter for individuals who exhibit COVID-19

student pharmacists, can provide much-needed care to patients who

symptoms and a day drop-in for individuals who do not have COVID-19

have ongoing health and medication needs at this time while continuing

symptoms but need a space to practice safe social distancing. Medical

to practice their skills and knowledge to become pharmacists,” says Dr.

care, home care, public health, addiction and mental health, infection

Ann Thompson, Assistant Dean, Experiential Education and Clinical

control and environment public health supports are all available at

Associate Professor.

the shelter.  THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

35

LOOKING BACK

Dr. Heber Havelock Moshier

The MOSHIER MOMENTS

THE FIRST DIRECTOR OF PHARMACY, 1914-1916

BY DEAN RHYNGWLADOL

BY 1912, the newly formed Alberta Pharmaceutical

In the fall of 1914, the first pharmacy class began

Association (APhA) was active in lobbying the University

instructions under Dr. Heber Havelock Moshier of the

of Alberta and its first President, Dr. Henry Marshall Tory,

Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, in a small

for the development of an educational program to train

lecture theatre on the third floor of Pembina Hall. For this

pharmacists.

instruction, Dr. Moshier was paid a salary of $750 per year.

While not initially receiving the proposal of an independent Faculty led by a Dean like they had hoped,

Moshier’s Early Years

the APhA successfully reached an agreement with the University of Alberta. On April 2, 1914, the APhA wrote a letter to President Tory covering suggested terms of an agreement for a Pharmacy course. On April 3, 1914,

County, Ontario on January 11, 1889, to Mary Jane Coulter

a Department of Pharmacy, in connection with the

and David Dingham Moshier. When he was still young, the

Faculty of Medicine, was requested by the President and

family moved to a home on Bloor Street in Toronto, and

authorized by the Board of Governors for the purpose of

his father worked as the Chief Inspector of Schools.

teaching pharmacy at a tuition fee of $50 per year. At the

Moshier earned his post-secondary schooling certificate

University of Alberta Senate on April 14, 1914, it was moved

in Sarnia and graduated from the University of Toronto’s

and seconded that the University of Alberta undertake

Faculty of Medicine at the age of 20. He served on staff at

the professional examinations for the Pharmaceutical

the Toronto General Hospital from 1909 to 1911 and was

Association under the terms of the proposed agreement.

also an instructor and researcher of pathology.

It was also proposed and seconded that a course in Pharmacy leading to a degree be arranged.

At this time, the APhA bylaws were amended to require

He subsequently moved West to Calgary where he practiced from 1912 to 1913 and served in the military reserves. Moshier married Ida Winifred Griffith on May 5,

that students had passed grade 10 and be the age of 14

1914 in York, Toronto, Ontario and accepted a position at

or older in order to apprentice in a pharmacy. A three-

the University of Alberta the same year.

year apprenticeship was required, followed by a one-year

36

Dr. Heber Havelock Moshier was born in the small Northern Canadian township of Sombra in Lambton

From 1914, until taking military leave from the University

diploma course at the University of Alberta, or if preferred,

of Alberta in 1916 at the age of 27, Moshier was Director

a two-year PharmB degree course. Examinations to practice

of Pharmacy, Professor, and Chair of the Department of

pharmacy were placed under the responsibility of the

Physiology at the University of Alberta. In the Faculty of

Senate at the University of Alberta, and the fee paid for

Medicine, he was one of only two doctors actually trained

examination by a Board of Examiners was $15.

in medicine.

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

LOOKING BACK The initial enrollment in the School of Pharmacy in

on March 1, 1916. He began his wartime experience as

1914 was 12 students. With the help of a few part-time

second in command of his unit, specifically tasked with

practicing physicians called “demonstrators,” the new chair

overseeing the student volunteers from the University of

and one pharmacy professor, Mr. Hole (PharmB), taught

Alberta. Thirty-two medical and pre-medical students were

pharmacy and physiology, which at that time included the

recruited from the four Western Canadian universities,

disciplines known today as pharmacology and biochemistry.

including 16 students from the University of Alberta,

In his short time on campus, Moshier also recruited the

which consisted of nearly the entire medical class of 1914.

Department of Physiology’s most distinguished professor,

The pharmacy program at the University of Alberta

James B. Collip, who would be instrumental in the

was temporarily suspended from 1916 to 1917 as more

discovery and patenting of insulin.

students and teachers enlisted, and only two pharmacy

The War Years

students remained.

Moshier’s contingent arrived in Winnipeg in March of 1916, and after a three-month training period, Moshier

On August 4, 1914, Britain declared war on Germany,

and the ambulance departed for England. There, they

and during the first year of World War I, Moshier became

trained and operated as a field ambulance consisting of

a first aid instructor to the military militia. In service at

three sections, each capable of simultaneously collecting

the University Hospital, he was Director of the Outpatient

the wounded from infantry battalion regimental aid posts,

Clinic and became Medical Superintendent as his portfolio

operating advanced dressing stations in the forward zone

expanded. He also provided medical care to students, est-

of operation, and then triaging the wounded or sick and

ablishing the free-of-charge Student Medical Service in 1915.

evacuating them to a casualty clearing station or to a main

University of Alberta President Tory nominated Moshier to establish and lead the University of Alberta contingent

dressing station.

While serving, Moshier had his men keep journals and

of the 11th Canadian Field Ambulance, which was initially

write about their experiences. This resulted in The Diary of

called the Western Universities Overseas Field Ambulance.

the Eleventh: Being a Record of the 11th Canadian Field Ambulance

It included students and faculty from the University who

(Western Universities) February 1916 - May 1919. This diary is

slept on the floor of Assiniboia Hall, which acted as their

a detailed, first-hand account of the activities of the Field

headquarters. This unit was part of the Canadian Army

Ambulance during the war. It recounts the conditions

Medical Corps and was manned by students drawn from all

endured and duties undertaken by Moshier and the

four Western universities of the time.

students from the time the battalion was raised

Due to his efforts in the creation of the unit, and his esteemed reputation among his peers, Moshier received his

in Edmonton through the battles of Somme, Vimy Ridge, and Passchendaele.

officer’s commission as a Major in the army after enlisting

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

37

LOOKING BACK

Moshier and his unit were tasked with the removal of

On August 29, 1918, less than three months before the end

wounded and dead soldiers, medical care, and carrying

of the war, Moshier was killed while scouting a new location

supplies to forward trenches. As the war progressed and

for the headquarters of his field ambulance. While he was

the sheer number of casualties continued to overwhelm the

driving, a high explosive shell burst overhead, and he was

stationary medical stations, Moshier and his unit became

struck by a stray piece of shrapnel, killing him instantly.

more involved with mobile medical stations that placed

He was 28 years old.

an emphasis on quickly relocating the injured from areas

Moshier was buried at the Villers Station Cemetery,

deemed to be a risk from enemy artillery. The students that

Villers-au-Bois, plot XII. C. I. Pas de Calais, France. It is

formed the 11th Canadian Field Ambulance Battalion acted

located two kilometers North of the village of Villers-au-

mainly as stretcher-bearers for the dead and wounded.

Bois and 11 kilometers Northwest of Arras, where he died.

They were the vital link between the regimental aid posts

There is also a headstone located in Millgrove, Ontario.

in the trenches, the field ambulances, and the advanced

Remembering Moshier

dressing stations where Moshier worked. For this work, they ultimately received university course credit and military medals.

During the battle of Vimy Ridge, Moshier’s B Section

In 1921, the University of Alberta established the Moshier Memorial Medal in Medicine in his honour, and it is

cleared the regimental aid posts located at Tottenham

awarded annually by the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

Tunnel and moved the wounded to dressing stations at

to the top graduating medical student who holds the

a forward area to protect them from incoming attacks.

highest grade point average across all courses. It is the most

Moshier continued his role as second in command, as well

prestigious award in the faculty.

as Principle Surgeon. He and the unit were often discussed

He is also commemorated on Parliament Hill in Ottawa

in military news dispatches for their services in the field

in the Book of Remembrance on page 474, and he received

— most notably during the Battle of Somme, Vimy Ridge,

the British War Medal, Victory Medal, and Canadian

Passchendaele, Amiens, and Arras. In May of 1917, Moshier

Memorial Cross for his service.

was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and given

The Moshier Room, located in the Faculty of Pharmacy

full command of the entire unit, a post that he would hold

and Pharmaceutical Sciences’ main foyer, was created in

until his death.

2017 as a permanent reminder of his legacy to pharmacy education and his contribution to the war effort. 

38

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

LOOKING BACK

All in the Family ____ THE HISTORY OF BASHAW DRUGS ____

BY

Ted (BSc Chem 1981, BSc Pharm 1984) and Diane Szumlas

KALYNA

(BComm 1979, CA 1982) stumbled upon Bashaw Drugs

HENNIG

in the early ‘90s by a rare stroke of luck. Diane’s parents

In the early ‘80s, Ted Szumlas was nearly finished his

were enjoying a glass of wine on their front porch in St.

chemistry degree at the University of Lethbridge — working

Albert when their neighbour, Dave, told them about his

in a lab at Syncrude through the school’s co-op program —

own father, George Darichuk (BSc Pharm 1946), who was

when he realized the industry might not be for him. “The

looking to sell Bashaw Drugs after running it for 25 years.

people who work in the lab are doing great work, but the

Diane’s father said he knew just the person to buy Bashaw

problem is that they are the only people you see, and I am

Drugs, and contacted his son-in-law, Ted, who was living

so much more of a people person,” says Ted. So, after he

in Calgary at the time. Now 26 years later, Ted and Diane’s

finished his chemistry degree, he applied and was accepted

daughter and son-in-law, Georgina (BA 2009) and Eric

to pharmacy school at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of

Gaudet (BComm 2010; BSc Pharm 2016), bought the store

Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

The Szumlas Take Bashaw

from them, making them the first family at Bashaw Drugs

When Diane’s parents first gave her and Ted a call

to have generational ownership of the historic pharmacy

to tell them about Bashaw Drugs, it was six years after

and the fourth generation of University of Alberta alumni

Ted graduated from pharmacy school. He had just been

to run it.

promoted at Safeway in Calgary, and Diane was teaching THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

39

LOOKING BACK at Mount Royal College as a Chartered Accountant. They had two daughters, Georgina, age four, and Alexandra, age two. “Did we want to buy the pharmacy?,” says Ted. “No, not really. We said, ‘Why would we want to move?’

But we drove here to check it out anyways.”

Sitting just an hour northeast of Red Deer, Bashaw is a laid-back town full of history and a population of about 850 people. (If you’re in town at noon, don’t let the siren at the fire hall startle you — it does that every day at lunch.)

Along its historic main street, sits Bashaw Drugs, which has been there in its original building — first, as a hardware store — for over 110 years.

“We drove into town and the streets were empty,” says Diane of their first impressions of Bashaw. It happened that everyone was at the annual Rodeo on the Agriculture grounds.

“But George Darachuk showed us around the pharmacy, and then the town,” says Ted. “And we fell in love with Bashaw.”

Upon purchasing Bashaw Drugs in 1992, Ted and Diane were the seventh owners of the store since it opened in 1911. Ted handled the store and the operations, concentrating on his duties as a pharmacist, while Diane did the books, usually after the kids were in bed. “We worked really well together in terms of strategic planning, developing policy and business plans, and how things would work through these transitions and funding models and physicians coming and going,” says Diane. “But in terms of front store operations, I think it was the first

“If you go through the history of the pharmacy, and the pharmacists that have worked here, it has always been the place that can be counted on for primary care,” week that we were putting stock out that we

kind of care, and the pharmacist needs the

knew we could not work together in the store.

ability to service patients,” says Ted. “In one

So those divisions of duties became important.

period, we were running the store, and we had

It was a learning experience to be with your

no physician services in town. So, for this area

spouse all those hours, to work with them, and

— though the town is only 850 people, it has

to raise a family as well. It provided lots of

a drawing area of 3000 — there were a very

challenges but was amazing in the end.”

high number of seniors left with nowhere to

Ted and Diane jumped into ownership at a

go. The physicians close by were not accepting

time that saw the profession at the beginning of

new patients, and it was crucial to be able to

rapidly progressive changes in both patient care

renew scripts or write them. In the early days,

and technology. They worked through and kept

pharmacists didn’t have those capabilities. If

up with the years of expanding practice in the

we did, it would have been a great help to the

province, and even made the transition from

community.”

typewriters to computers at Bashaw Drugs when they first purchased it.

“If you go through the history of the

“There was, and is, a whole lot of good will and coordination with the physicians here,” says Diane. “They trust pharmacists to provide

pharmacy, and the pharmacists that have

the best possible continuity in patient care.

worked here, it has always been the place that

In some ways, as much as we’re a very old

can be counted on for primary care,” says

pharmacy, the pharmacists of Bashaw Drugs

Ted. “I remember a story about someone that

have been on the leading edge of proactive

came in with an injury when John G. Pearson

practice, simply because of patient need.”

(Dip Pharm 1928) was the store owner, and he applied a life-saving tourniquet because he was the only one around.”

“Looking through the transitions that have

The Next Generation In 2018, after running the store for 26 years,

happened in pharmacy from when we took

Ted and Diane sold the pharmacy to their

it over until now, it is really encouraging to

daughter and son-in-law, Georgina and Eric

see that pharmacists finally have prescribing

Gaudet. Interdisciplinary collaboration

rights. Small communities really need that

and progressive transitions in the profession

HISTORICAL OWNERSHIP OF BASHAW DRUGS Bashaw Drugs opened in 1911 and has been owned by several University of Alberta Alumni in its 109 year history.

1911-1915: Horace Y. Rayner opened the pharmacy the same

1934-1967:

year Bashaw officially

1915-1925:

1925-1928:

1928-1934:

John G. Pearson, alumnus of the University of Alberta’s

became a village

Sydney L. Eversfield

George Smythe

W. E. Bill Hawker

School of Pharmacy diploma program (Pharm Dip 1928)

40

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

LOOKING BACK continued on with the next generation of Ted

environment or time, because then, you knew

working and travelling a ton. My peers were

and Diane’s family at the forefront.

how to help your patients, but you couldn’t,”

all significantly older, with kids, and we were

says Eric. “Everything had to go through a

just starting to talk about career trajectory and

a physician available four and a half days a

physician to get approved. Whereas now, they

where we were going, and if that was what we

week, an independent/assisted living lodge

come in, I can assess, I can help, they’re in

wanted for our future family. And it wasn’t.”

with 55 beds, and a home care office, which, in

and out within five or ten minutes, and we’ve

Ted and Diane’s time, was once a full-service

established a follow up timeline. The patients

idea that one of us was going to take over

hospital that did obstetrics, surgery, emergency

are very thankful and appreciative, and I feel

the pharmacy at that point,” says Georgina.

procedures, and more. Now, Bashaw Drugs

like I can make a bigger difference.”

“But Eric and I were talking, and we wanted

Today, Bashaw has a doctor’s clinic with

continues to work closely with the doctors and nurses in town.

“We do rounds with the care team once a

But the generational hand-off of ownership

“I think my parents had given up on the

to make sure we kept the pharmacy. It’s been

from the Szumlas’ to the Gaudet’s wasn’t a

such a pillar in the community, that we wanted

given. Ted and Diane’s daughter Georgina had

to ensure someone that cared about the

week,” says Eric. “I’m on call for the lodge, so

chosen a career in communications, and her

community took it over.”

on nights and weekends we’re prescribing. It is

sister chose nursing. Even after Georgina met

a unique practice, as it straddles community

Eric, he was on a different educational path.

he took sciences and had almost all the

and long-term care practice.”

Similar to Ted, Eric switched over to pharmacy

prerequisites to apply for pharmacy at the

after he had finished an alternate degree.

University of Alberta. He went back to open

“It’s a really collaborative practice,” says Georgina. “The other week, the doctor had to

“Pharmacy was not the plan at all,” says

Luckily, before Eric did his business degree,

studies to do two courses, and then applied

leave because there was an emergency. But at

Eric. “When I met Georgie, I was working

and was accepted in 2012. Georgina was

rounds, they still had a full patient roster, so it

towards my business degree, and I was working

working as a Communications Advisor for

was Eric and the Registered Nurse who worked

for Telus. When I finished school, I was

Alberta Health Services at the time, and her

together to assess the patients and prescribe what was needed.”

At the pharmacy, Eric is one of two full-time pharmacists, the other being Travis Barber (BSc Pharm 2016), who graduated with Eric at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Ted, though semi-retired since selling the pharmacy, still works one day a week. They all frequently use their full scope of practice administering immunizations, prescribing, and ordering and interpreting labs.

“I tell my patients all the time, that I don’t think I could have practiced in a different

1992-2016:

2016-Present:

1967-1992:

Ted Szumlas, alumnus of the University of Alberta’s Faculty

Eric Gaudet, alumnus of the University of Alberta’s

George T. Darichuk, alumnus of the University of

of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSc Pharm 1984),

Faculty of Business (2010) and Faculty of Pharmacy and

Alberta’s School of Pharmacy Bachelor of Science in

and Diane Szumlas, alumna of the University of Alberta’s

Pharmaceutical Sciences (2016), and Georgina Gaudet,

Pharmacy program (BSc Pharm 1946)

Faculty of Business (BComm 1979; CA 1982)

alumna of the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Arts (2009)

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | ualberta.ca/pharmacy

41

LOOKING BACK experience and contacts there transitioned nicely into running the pharmacy too.

“We had said, ‘if I could get into pharmacy, why don’t we follow this plan?’” says Eric.

“Georgina was familiar with the pharmacy, I have a business degree, and it could all work out

This commitment to patients is generational, it’s really special. I don’t know if it comes from the instructors or the training, or both, but the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Pharmacy has produced some really exceptional pharmacists.”

pretty well. All the pieces just fell into place.” with the physicians once a week. My preceptor

patients from the public side. There is a clinical

pharmacist, Eric and Georgina bought the

would send me to do my rounds without her,

assessment room for procedures like blood

pharmacy. The transition from new grad to

to work with the doctor and see the prescribing

pressure readings and injections, and a second

pharmacy owner wasn’t as hard as expected,

and lab ordering. She was a super collaborative

room for discussions and medication reviews.

says Eric, thanks to his preceptors and his

pharmacist. That rotation really built up my

The pharmacy ran at full capacity during

ability to work at the store as a student.

confidence and abilities. And then in my

the renovations, with the most interesting

community rotation, I would spend one day in

challenge they faced being the incredibly heavy

second year,” says Eric. “Just to get to know

the clinic seeing patients, and another in a level

100-year-old safe that required five men to

the patient population, build relationships,

four long term care facility, which was all super

move it from the pharmacy to the museum

and learn from Ted. The learning you do in

applicable to our future practice.”

down the street. In May 2019, they had a

Just one year after becoming a licensed

“I started working summers here in

a rural pharmacy is amazing. It’s a totally

“We don’t like to do things easily,” says

different environment. You don’t have the

Georgina. “We had our first baby a month

same resources and expertise as the big cities,

before his licensing exam, and our second baby

and new,” says Eric. “The building is over 100

so we have to have our fingers in everything.”

came a month before we bought the store.”

years old and has historical significance for the

In his fourth year of pharmacy school, Eric

But the Gaudet’s were up for these challenges.

town. We own the pharmacy, but we always say

completed his electives in the spring/summer

Their third daughter was born in early April

it’s the town’s pharmacy. It’s been here forever

session and his rotations in the fall, so he could

this year, during the beginnings of COVID-19

and there’s so much love for this place that you

work at Bashaw Drugs from January until his

pandemic in Canada.

don’t want to mess with it.”

final exams.

“I was very fortunate in my rotations too.

After purchasing the pharmacy, Eric and Georgina made plans to modernize Bashaw

My hospital preceptor had her APA, and she

Drugs. They designed consultation rooms with

ordered labs,” says Eric. “They also had a long-

dual access that allow the pharmacy team

term care unit in Lacombe and did rounds

to come in from the dispensary side and the

Grand Re-Opening celebration.

“The renos were a fine balance between old

All in the Family All in all, the pharmacy’s familial roots have shone through during both generation’s ownership periods. “It’s such a special thing with Eric and Georgie being the eighth owners when we were the seventh,” says Ted. “What has been the most fun to see, was the key factor of the negotiation to purchase the store all those years ago was the interview between George Darichuck and Ted,” says Diane. “George had such a passion for his community and wanted his patients to be cared for. So, it’s amazing to see that now, when we were selling the pharmacy to Eric and Georgina, that the interview was still the key thing between Eric and Ted too. This commitment to patients is generational, it’s really special. I don’t know if it comes from the instructors or the training, or both, but the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Pharmacy has produced some really exceptional pharmacists.” 

42

THE MORTAR & PESTLE | SUMMER 2020

DOCTOR OF PHARMACY FOR PRACTICING PHARMACISTS

APPLY TODAY FOR THE DISTANCE PROGRAM!

Earn your PharmD degree at your own pace while maintaining your current employment and residence.

Unlike the PhD that focuses on research, the PharmD degree is an undergraduate professional doctorate. The University of

Want to advance your career and keep up with practice changes? Apply today for the distance program!

Alberta’s PharmD for Practicing Pharmacists program provides advanced education in patient care and betters your management,

Application Deadline: AUGUST 1, 2020

and critical thinking skills. Complete coursework in the areas

Program Start Date:

JANUARY 2021

of evidence-based practice, patient assessment, advanced

Program duration:

2 – 5 YEARS

pharmacotherapy, frameworks for working in teams, and the provision of education to diverse audiences.

Previous learning considered to lessen the time and cost of the program.

Learn more at ualberta.ca/pharmacy/programs

Help pharmacy reach new heights.

With your donation to the Prescription for the Future Fund, you help the next generation of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists achieve their vision for the future by supporting supplemental learning opportunities, exchange programs, student-led initiatives, conference attendance and so much more.

To learn more about our Prescription for the Future Fund or other giving opportunities, please visit uab.ca/givetopharm or contact Ellen Doty at 780-492-3819 or edoty@ualberta.ca.

Please return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:

Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences 2-35 MSB, University of Alberta 8613 - 114 Street Edmonton AB T6G 2H7 phcomms@ualberta.ca ualberta.ca/pharmacy