As I write these words, Alberta is approaching a crisis in the pandemic: We are running out of ICU capacity.

For the first time in my career, I am preparing to triage critically ill patients to decide who receives life support. This was not something I ever expected to encounter.
Yet during these times, I reflect.

Today I was reminded of the wisdom of one of the greatest athletes in history – Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kipchoge.

Mr. Kipchoge rarely trains at full capacity. He saves his 100% for when a title is on the line.

Over the next several weeks, I will be working at my 100% to serve my patients.
I will be tired but not burnt out because, for years (not months), I have been at working at a healthy pace. Wellness means caring for yourself first. It means living with intention.
But now it is time to step in and get the work done.

I am confident our great province will come through the pandemic. I am confident in the work of our incredible nurses, physicians, respiratory therapists, and other frontline staff. It is an honor to serve alongside such incredible people.

We also need to come together.

I want to specifically recognize the tireless work our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, has done on behalf of our province. No one in our country has a more difficult job than her as she balances competing priorities and makes decisions that affect the lives of millions. Thank you, Dr. Hinshaw.

For those of us who will be working long hours in the weeks ahead, continue to make time for your family, hobbies, and dreams.

Physician Empowerment remains a central part of my life and despite the hectic days ahead, I look forward to our livestream event on October 2nd.

I hope that you can join us in affirming the importance of personal wellness in our careers.