Honouring Manitoba’s neurosurgeons

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 07/11/2017 (2865 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Every day, 27 Canadians are diagnosed with brain tumour. A brain tumour can have a devastating impact on families as they watch their loved ones’ physical, emotional and mental abilities suffer.

From personal experience, I can say that it is no easy feat. This year marks 15 years since my successful meningioma surgery.  I am so grateful that I am still around, thanks to the incredible talent, skills and support of the team of neurosurgeons at the University of Manitoba, based out of the Health Sciences Centre.

In honour of brain tumor awareness week I want to recognize Dr. Neil Berrington, current head of neurosurgery at the University of Manitoba and Dr. Michael West, the former head of neurosurgery, now an associate dean at U of M. Together, their vision, drive and expertise have resulted in the status of HSC’s neurosurgery clinic as one of the most successful in Canada.

The University of Manitoba’s team of neurosurgeons provides neurosurgical care to all of Manitoba, Nunavut, Northwestern Ontario and parts of Eastern Saskatchewan. In 2003 Manitoba became the first in Canada to offer gamma knife Surgery. This procedure provides a minimally invasive method of treatment, which delivers high dose radiation to tumours in a very precise manner, making it possible to treat tumours that are surgically inaccessible.

Recruiting some of the best doctors from around the world, the neurosurgery section at the U of M has saved thousands of people like me. Successful treatment of patients has resulted in reduced requirement for personal care homes and assistance at home. Many have often returned to work, just like me. This has immense effect on the patient’s well-being and their families. The work neurosurgeons do also has an immeasurable impact on the economy and the community.

Last week, Dr. Berrington and Dr. West joined me at the legislature for Brain Tumour Awareness week. I had the opportunity to make my statement and allow all of my colleagues to thank them for their life-saving work on behalf of all Manitobans. The University of Manitoba’s Neurosurgery Section deserves great recognition for their pioneering work in brain surgery and for making Manitoba a centre of excellence for neurosurgery in Canada.

As always feel to contact me at my office by calling 204-788-0800 or email Flor.Marcelino@yourmanitoba.ca.