Georgian Bay General Hospital Physicians Recognized with Queen’s University Regional Education Awards

 Dr. Brian Gaffney (left) and Dr. Oladayo Ajisafe (right) have been recognized by Queen’s University School of Medicine with Regional Education Awards for their outstanding contributions to medical education. Dr. Gaffney received a Mentorship Award, while Dr. Ajisafe was honoured with a Teaching Award for their dedication to supporting and inspiring the next generation of physicians. 

August 18, 2026 – Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is proud to congratulate two members of its professional staff, Dr. Brian Gaffney and Dr. Oladayo Ajisafe on being recognized with prestigious Queen’s University Regional Education Awards for their outstanding contributions to medical education. 

Presented annually by Queen’s University School of Medicine’s Regional Education Office, the awards recognize excellence in teaching, mentorship, education development, and team-based education among community-based faculty members who play an essential role in training the next generation of physicians. 

Dr. Gaffney has been selected to receive a Regional Education Award in the Mentorship category. In addition to receiving the award, he was also nominated in the Teaching category, highlighting the significant and lasting impact he has had on the many learners he has supported throughout his career. 

Dr. Ajisafe has been selected to receive a Regional Education Award in the Teaching category, recognizing his dedication to providing exceptional learning experiences for undergraduate and postgraduate medical learners during their community placements. 

Community-based faculty physicians are integral to the success of medical education programs, helping learners gain valuable hands-on experience while providing care in real-world healthcare settings. 

“On behalf of Georgian Bay General Hospital, I would like to congratulate Dr. Ajisafe and Dr. Gaffney on this well-deserved recognition,” says Dr. Vikram Ralhan, Chief of Staff at GBGH. “These awards reflect not only their clinical expertise, but also their commitment to teaching, mentoring, and inspiring future physicians. Their dedication to medical education strengthens healthcare for our community today and helps shape the healthcare workforce of tomorrow.” 

GBGH recognizes the critical role rural and community hospitals play in training the next generation of healthcare providers. Through partnerships with Queen’s University, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University (NOSM University), and the University of Toronto’s Family Medicine Residency Program, GBGH regularly welcomes medical students and residents to learn and practice alongside experienced physicians and healthcare professionals. These training experiences provide learners with valuable hands-on clinical exposure while helping to foster interest in practicing medicine in communities like North Simcoe and Muskoka, supporting the future of local healthcare. 

The recognition of Dr. Ajisafe and Dr. Gaffney highlights the important role that community physicians play in developing future healthcare providers while maintaining high-quality patient care close to home. 

Georgian Bay General Hospital Welcomes New Board Members and Announces New Board Chair

From L-R: Jim Mulligan, GBGH’s new Board Chair and new GBGH board members Louise Leone, Nils Clausen and Danny Davies. 

Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is pleased to announce the appointment of Louise Leone, Nils Clausen and Danny Davies to its Board of Directors, while also recognizing the dedicated service of outgoing Board Chair Bernie Uhlich and welcoming Jim Mulligan as the Board’s new Chair and Jerry Van Dyk as Vice Chair. 

Louise Leone brings more than 40 years of leadership experience with Imperial Oil, where she has specialized in workforce development, leadership, organizational performance, and workplace culture. A resident of Tiny Township for the past 15 years, Louise has a strong history of community service, currently serving as Chair of the Board at Martyrs’ Shrine and volunteering with a number of local organizations. Her passion for supporting healthcare is deeply personal, informed by her family’s ongoing healthcare journey and her appreciation for the vital role GBGH plays in the region. 

Nils Clausen joins the Board with more than 35 years of senior healthcare leadership experience across healthcare operations, supply chain management, business development, and medical technology. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Medical Equipment Protection Plan (CMEPP), a national not-for-profit organization supporting healthcare providers across Canada. Since relocating permanently to Tiny Township in 2024, Nils has become an engaged member of the community and brings valuable expertise in healthcare strategy, governance, financial stewardship, and stakeholder relations. 

Danny Davies enjoyed a career which allowed him to operate in three countries, across a range of industries, in Consulting, HR and Executive roles. His most recent being the Chief People Officer for AVIVA where he retired from in 2023. His passion is for people to make a difference by being themselves, and he believes all leadership roles have the privilege of making this happen. He’s been fortunate to have roles which have allowed him to do the things he cares deeply about; leadership, inclusion and leading major change. Before joining the GBGH Board, Danny served on the GBGH Foundation board for 2 years. Danny is a previous World & European Bridge Champion. He lives in Tiny with his family: Helen, Dylan and Menna (and Scout). 

GBGH extends its sincere gratitude to Bernie Uhlich, whose term on the Board has come to an end following 10 years of dedicated service, including the past two years as Board Chair. 

During his tenure, Bernie provided steady leadership and governance oversight while helping guide the hospital through significant challenges and opportunities. His unwavering commitment to GBGH, patients, staff, physicians, and the broader community has left a lasting impact on the organization. 

The GBGH Board of Directors is also pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Mulligan as its new Chair. Jim first joined the Board in 2020 after a successful career in the financial services industry, bringing extensive expertise in risk management, strategic planning, and business operations. A Midland resident since 2019, Jim has been an active member of the Board and most recently served as Chair of the Quality Committee. He is passionate about supporting local healthcare and helping ensure a strong, sustainable healthcare system for the community.  

The Board has also appointed Jerry Van Dyk as Vice Chair. Jerry brings a wealth of financial and operational expertise gained through a distinguished career as Chief Financial Officer in several manufacturing organizations. Along with his new appointment, Jerry is Chair of the Audit and Resource Committee, offering valuable experience in strategic planning, fiscal oversight, and organizational performance. 

Georgian Bay General Hospital is always seeking community-minded individuals interested in serving on its Board of Directors. These volunteer positions play a critical role in providing governance oversight and ensuring the hospital continues to achieve its strategic objectives while upholding its commitment to exceptional care. 

The Board values a diverse range of skills, experiences, and perspectives, including expertise in healthcare, advocacy, governance, finance, and community leadership. GBGH is committed to fostering a Board that reflects the communities it serves, including Indigenous and Francophone representation. 

For more information, visit https://gbgh.on.ca/board-of-directors/ 

GBGH & Beausoleil First Nation Paramedic Service Advance Access to Care

The training initiative focused on expanding the clinical skills and knowledge of BFN paramedics, enabling them to provide a heightened level of care closer to home for community members. By strengthening local care capacity, the program helps reduce the need for visits to the GBGH Emergency Department and supports more timely access to treatment.  

The successful day brought together healthcare professionals committed to innovative, community-focused care and resulted in significant learning opportunities that will directly benefit BFN members.

GBGH would like to thank Chief Joanne Sandy of Beausoleil First Nation, Christos Bamparamos, Community Paramedicine Superintendent of BFN Paramedic Service, and Tony Filice, Chief Paramedic of BFN Paramedic Service for their outstanding partnership and support in helping bring this forward-thinking program to life. 

“Today’s training demonstrated the power of partnership and our shared commitment to improving access to care” said Dr. Vikram Ralhan, Chief of Staff at GBGH. “Together, we are building a model that greatly improves access, strengthens partnerships, and supports better care closer to home.” 

GBGH extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Vikram Ralhan and Dr. Marty McNamara for leading this important initiative on behalf of the hospital. GBGH also recognizes Dr. McNamara’s steadfast dedication to consistently providing and improving access to care for the BFN community. 

The training reflects the strong collaboration between GBGH and Beausoleil First Nation, and represents a meaningful step toward improving health outcomes through innovative models of care. 

As GBGH continues to strengthen relationships with local communities and healthcare partners across the region, initiatives such as this demonstrate how partnerships, innovation, and a shared commitment to equitable care can lead to meaningful improvements in healthcare access.

Celebrating Excellence: GBGH Announces 2026 Board Award Recipients

Recipients of the 2026 Board of Directors’ Awards of Excellence at Georgian Bay General Hospital, recognized for their outstanding contributions and for bringing the hospital’s values and purpose to life. 

June 25, 2026 – During its annual Team Appreciation Week, Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) proudly announced the 2026 recipients of the Board of Directors’ Awards of Excellence. These prestigious awards are presented each year to recognize staff and professional staff (physicians, midwives, dentists) who have made outstanding contributions to GBGH while exemplifying the hospital’s core values and advancing its strategic goals. 

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is a privilege to recognize the outstanding contributions of this year’s award recipients,” says Jim Mulligan, Chair of the GBGH Board of Directors. “Each of these individuals and teams demonstrates a deep commitment to our patients, to one another, and to continuous improvement. Their dedication and compassion help shape a culture of excellence at GBGH and strengthen the care we provide to our community every day.” 

2026 GBGH Board of Directors’ Awards of Excellence Recipients: 

Inspire Dedication Award – Crystal Handy‑Smith: Crystal Handy-Smith is a thoughtful leader and advocate whose ability to build trust with vulnerable patients and families enhances safety, dignity, and care across GBGH. Through innovative program leadership, education, and a commitment to system improvement, she has made a lasting impact on patient outcomes, staff support, and the organization’s vision of becoming a dementia-capable hospital. 

Patients First Award – Emma Malone: Emma is a kind and dedicated social worker who consistently puts patients first, ensuring individuals and families feel heard, supported, and confident in their care. Through her empathetic approach and strong collaboration, she advances safe and seamless transitions, making a meaningful difference in patient experiences and outcomes. 

Empower Others Award – Alicia Adams: Alicia is recognized as an exceptional mentor who empowers new nurses with confidence, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. She consistently guides colleagues through complex clinical situations with patience and expertise. Her unwavering support, approachability, and dedication to developing others have a lasting impact on both individual growth and patient care excellence. 

Lead with Empathy Award – Julie Lesperance: Julie is a composed leader who consistently delivers safe and respectful patient care while remaining calm and focused during critical situations. Through her empathetic leadership and commitment to supporting others, she fosters confidence, learning, and psychological safety across the care team. 

Think Forward Award – Dr. Bonnie Shum: Dr. Shum is a thorough and dedicated physician and GBGH’s Chief of Surgery, who consistently puts patients first, delivering high-quality, patient-centred care with professionalism and respect. Through her leadership and collaboration, she has advanced regional partnerships to improve timely access to surgical care, strengthening patient outcomes and the culture of care at GBGH. 

Team Recognition Award – Environmental Services Team: The Environmental Services Team consistently demonstrates exceptional professionalism, compassion, and collaboration, ensuring patient care areas are safe, clean, and ready to support clinical needs—even in high-pressure situations. Through standardized processes, efficient use of resources, and a commitment to continuous improvement, they enhance patient flow, uphold high safety standards, and strengthen sustainable, high-quality operations across the hospital. 

Together, these recipients reflect how GBGH brings its purpose to life—making excellent care personal through compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to every patient, family, and colleague they impact. 

GBGH Welcomes Newest Community Members with Baby Bundles for Families

 From left to right: Michelle Blake, Manager of Obstetrics at Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH); Ruth Jeannotte, member of the Askennonia Senior Centre knitting group; and Alexandra Rawn, Supervisor of Obstetrics at GBGH, celebrate the launch of the GBGH Baby Bundle program. 

April 9, 2025 – Families welcoming a new baby at Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) will now go home with a Baby Bundle, a small gift box filled with thoughtfully selected items to support newborns and their caregivers during their first days at home. 

“The start of a new life is a meaningful moment for families, and we wanted to find a way to mark that experience with something special,” said Matthew Lawson, President and CEO of GBGH. “These Baby Bundles are a small but heartfelt way for GBGH and our community partners to show care, support, and congratulations to families as they begin this new chapter.” 

Each Baby Bundle includes a “Born at GBGH” onesie, a GBGH sloth stuffed animal, diapers and baby wipes, a “Baby on Board” bumper magnet, newborn hygiene products, and a hand‑knitted blanket and hat. 

The Baby Bundle program is made possible through collaboration with community partners. GBGH partnered with Askennonia Senior Centre, whose knitting group generously agreed to create blankets for every bundle given to families. GBGH Volunteers also contrbuted by kinitting the hats for each bundle.  

“The knitting group at Askennonia takes great pride in contributing to the GBGH Baby Bundle program,” said Blair Randolph Flood, Executive Director at Askennonia Senior Centre. “For many of our members, creating these items is more than just knitting, it’s about giving back, staying connected, and knowing their work will bring comfort to new families in our community.” 

Diapers and baby wipes included in the bundles were kindly provided by an anonymous donor via the GBGH Foundation, further strengthening the community effort behind the initiative. 

The Baby Bundle program reflects GBGH’s commitment to compassionate, patient‑centred care and celebrating life’s milestones alongside the community it serves. In the last fiscal year alone, 215 babies were born at GBGH, each representing a new beginning for families across North Simcoe. 

Georgian Bay General Hospital Awarded for Championing Organ and Tissue Donation

Members of GBGH’s TGLN Committee — from left to right: Julianne Labelle, Director of Clinical Services; Nicole Lefaive, Professional Practice Leader; Felicia Morden, Manager of the Emergency Department and ICU; and April Cross, Team Lead, ICU — accept the Trillium Gift of Life Network Hospital Achievement Award for Provincial Eligible Approach Rate. 

Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) was recently recognized by Trillium Gift of Life Network for its exceptional efforts to support organ and tissue donation as part of compassionate end-of-life care in 2024/25.   

 GBGH was presented with Hospital Achievement Award – Provincial Eligible Approach Rate awarded to hospital partners for demonstrating leading practices by facilitating a donation discussion with eligible patients/families of patients at end of life.  

“We are deeply honoured to receive this provincial recognition from Trillium Gift of Life Network. It reflects the compassion, professionalism, and dedication of our team at GBGH, who ensure that every opportunity for organ and tissue donation is approached with care and respect. Supporting patients and families in honouring their end‑of‑life wishes is a profound responsibility, and we are committed to fostering a culture where donation is understood as a meaningful and life‑saving gift.” stated Linda Gravel, Vice President, Clinical Services & Chief Nursing Executive at GBGH. 

GBGH is one of 50 hospital partners across the province to be awarded a 2024/25 Trillium Gift of Life Network Hospital Achievement Award. This marks the largest number of hospitals ever honoured in the history of the awards. 

“This year’s record level of recognition is a testament to the dedicated, patient-centred care provided by GBGH’s healthcare team as they honour and support the decisions of patients and their families to donate,” said Janet MacLean, Interim Vice-President, TGLN. “It also reflects the deep commitment of Ontario hospitals to fostering a culture where organ and tissue donation is a natural and meaningful part of end-of-life care.” 

ABOUT THE AWARDS 

Each year, the Hospital Achievement Awards recognize hospital partners that meet or exceed Ontario’s targets in key areas of the donation process. 

“Behind each award is a team of dedicated healthcare professionals who ensure that every opportunity for donation is thoughtfully considered, and that families are supported in honouring their loved one’s end-of-life wishes,” said Dr. Andrew Healey, Provincial Medical Director – Donation, TGLN. “Trust begins at the door of the hospital, where patients first receive active care. The compassion and commitment shown throughout a patient’s journey profoundly shape the possibility of donation. It’s the care at every stage that makes donation possible.” 

WHY DONATION MATTERS 

Did you know? One organ donor can save up to eight lives, and a single tissue donor can improve the lives of up to 75 people. Yet right now there are 1,627 Ontarians on the transplant waitlist in need of an organ to save their life—while thousands more are waiting for tissue donations. 

Despite this need, only 35 per cent of eligible Ontarians are currently registered as organ and tissue donors—that means more than 9 million Ontarians are still not registered. Anyone 16 years or older with a valid Ontario health card can register at beadonor.ca or in person at any ServiceOntario location during a visit to renew your health card or driver’s license. 

Just as important as registering is talking to your family about your wishes. When a person has both registered their consent and discussed their decision with their families, their loved ones can confidently move forward in fulfilling those wishes without doubt or uncertainty of their wishes. 

GBGH Encourages Masking to Keep Loved Ones Safe

With respiratory illnesses on the rise in our community, as flagged by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, and in alignment with our partner hospitals, Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is strengthening its masking guidelines. These updates are designed to keep our patients, visitors, and the entire GBGH Crew safe and protected. 

Starting Wednesday, December 17, masks will be required for GBGH staff when interacting with patients. Masks are strongly encouraged for all members of the public when coming to GBGH to reduce the risk of respiratory illness.  

Visitors who are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms are asked to postpone their visit until they have fully recovered. 

“Our priority is maintaining a safe environment for patients, families, and our healthcare team,” says Matthew Lawson, GBGH President and CEO. “We strongly encourage masking as an extra layer of protection to keep everyone’s loved ones safe and healthy.” He adds, “With respiratory infections on the rise, we’ve taken a proactive approach to masking to protect our community. We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust as needed.” 

Any future updates to the masking policy will be shared on the GBGH website. 

GBGH Seeks Volunteers for Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP)

 At left is HELP program volunteer Eileen Cross, joined by GBGH team members Heather Forget, Crystal Handy-Smith and Logan Wood, who were all instrumental in bringing the Hospital Elder Life Program to life through their leadership and planning.

November 6, 2025 – Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is inviting community members to join its new Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP), a recognized initiative designed to prevent delirium and functional decline in older patients during hospital stays.

HELP volunteers make a meaningful difference through daily, structured visits that keep older adults mentally, emotionally, and physically well while in hospital. Under the guidance of an Elder Life Specialist and clinical team, volunteers provide simple yet powerful interventions that promote comfort and independence.

Volunteer activities include:

• Engaging patients in conversation and memory exercises
• Supporting mobility and physical activity
• Assisting with meals and reducing isolation
• Helping patients stay oriented and emotionally supported

Volunteer expectations:

• One shift per week (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) Monday to Friday
• Minimum 6-month commitment
• Completion of 4-hour training and 4 shadow shifts

The next training session is scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, and GBGH is still welcoming new volunteers to join this rewarding program.

Current HELP volunteer Eileen Cross says the experience is as rewarding for her as it is for the patients: “I think I get as much out of this as the patients do. If you’re looking for a way to volunteer, this is an excellent way to give back to your community. I really enjoy the hands-on aspect of this role—it’s so rewarding to see the difference you can make.”

If you are calm, compassionate, and eager to make a difference in the lives of older adults, apply today by emailing volunteers@gbgh.on.ca with the subject line “HELP Program”.

GBGH Reminds Community to Get Flu Shots and Know Care Options This Cold & Flu Season

Linda Gravel, vice president of clinical services and chief nursing executive (left), receives her flu shot from RN Kelsey Coulter as part of GBGH’s annual influenza immunization campaign.

Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is reminding the community to protect themselves and others by getting the annual influenza vaccine as cold and flu season approaches. The flu shot remains the best defence against influenza, helping reduce the risk of severe illness and preventing the spread of infection to vulnerable populations.

“Getting your flu shot is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our community,” says Linda Gravel, vice president, clinical services and chief nursing executive at GBGH. “By staying healthy, we can reduce strain on our healthcare system and ensure care is available for those who need it most.”

GBGH has launched its internal flu immunization campaign for staff, professional staff, and volunteers, reinforcing its commitment to patient safety and team wellness. The hospital also continues to maintain COVID-19 precautions, including self-screening at entrances and optional masking, with hand hygiene stations available throughout the facility.

Know Your Care Options

While GBGH’s Emergency Department is always available for urgent and life-threatening situations, many seasonal illnesses can be managed through other local resources. Before visiting the ED, consider these alternatives:

• North Simcoe Ontario Health Team (NSOHT) Resources: Visit NSOHT’s “Where to Go if You Feel Unwell” page for guidance on local care options, including virtual appointments, mental health support, and community clinics.
• North Simcoe Care Clinic: For cold, flu, and respiratory symptoms, the Care Clinic offers same-day or next-day appointments with a nurse practitioner. Book online at nsfht.ca or call 705-526-7804.
• Health811: Speak to a nurse 24/7 by calling 811 or visiting ontario.ca/HealthConnectOntario.
• Pharmacies & Primary Care Providers: Many pharmacies and family doctors offer flu shots and advice for mild symptoms.

By choosing the right care option, you can help reduce wait times in the Emergency Department and ensure timely care for everyone.

For more information on flu shots and local health resources, visit www.nsoht.ca.

Construction Set to Begin on New Mammography Space at GBGH

Rendering of the future mammography space at GBGH.

October 28, 2025 – As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is proud to announce that construction will officially begin on a new space dedicated to mammography services in November. Located in the former Health Records area, the new mammography suite will be conveniently situated adjacent to the hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging department, ensuring seamless access for patients.

With construction beginning next month, the goal is to scan the first patient in early 2026. This milestone marks a significant step forward in GBGH’s commitment to enhancing access to essential healthcare services for the North Simcoe community.

“Mammography is a critical tool in the early detection of breast cancer, and we are proud to soon offer this service close to home,” says Matthew Lawson, president and CEO, GBGH. “This project is a major advancement in our ability to support our community’s health and encourage more individuals to participate in regular breast cancer screening.”

The addition of mammography services has been made possible through the incredible partnership between Georgian Bay General Hospital and the GBGH Foundation, as well as the generosity of our local community. This collaboration exemplifies how working together can turn vision into reality, ensuring that vital healthcare services, like mammography, are accessible for everyone.

“The response to our fundraising efforts for mammography has been nothing short of extraordinary,” says Nicole Kraftscik, CEO, GBGH Foundation. “Our community rallied behind this initiative, recognizing the importance of accessible breast cancer screening. We’re grateful for every donor who helped make this vision a reality.”

This achievement is a testament to the spirit of the We See You campaign, which celebrates the compassion and commitment of donors who see the need and step forward to make a difference. It is because of strong financial support that GBGH is able to invest in projects that save lives and improve care for all.”GBGH looks forward to welcoming patients to the new mammography suite in early 2026 and continuing to provide excellent personal care that meets the evolving needs of the community.