Thanks to your support, this past year has been monumental at the Ottawa Heart Institute.
“Heart Health for All” has become a commonly used phrase but it has real meaning for your
Heart Institute; it embodies our commitment to ensure that everyone, regardless of geography,
language, or background, receives the cardiac care they need to achieve their best heart health.
We excel in providing cutting-edge science while preserving the essential human touch.
Reflecting on my journey since taking on the role of President and CEO last April, I’ve
witnessed our responsibility extend beyond Ottawa to our global community. As we strive for
equitable care, we also focus on environmental stewardship and respecting cultural differences.
The Institute remains a remarkable place that is laser-focused on advancing care and heart health.
For 20 years, our STEMI program has continued to show outstanding results, reducing
heart attack deaths by nearly half. The program delivers effective and timely care through
training and collaboration with emergency services and staff coordinated with the Institute and
our regional partners.
Nobody wants to have a heart attack. But if you’re going to have one, this is the
best place in the world to do it.
Our Acute Cardiac Triage Clinic (ACTU) has streamlined patient care for those postsurgery
and with complex needs, providing same-day appointments. It has already diverted
hundreds of patients away from having to wait in emergency rooms.
At the Institute, we continue to take prevention to the next level. Outreach efforts like our
Mobile Valve Clinic and Screening Program have helped countless people in the
community. Earlier care helps to prevent a potential heart crisis. One in three clinic
patients needed further follow up with healthcare providers or are referred to the Institute’s
Centre for Valvular Heart Disease (CVHD).
That’s a huge win for heart health and heart disease prevention for our community. These are
just a few examples of how, with your help, we live our values of “Heart Health for All.”
I saw this in action last fall, during my “State of the Heart” tour across your Institute. I recall
hearing from one person in particular, as she really put it best. This staff member works with the
Information Technology team ensuring our electronic records and computer systems run smoothly.
She shared: “I was watching a live feed of an operation. It was at that moment that I realized
what we were doing here. I may not serve a patient directly, but everything we
do matters. It was so clear to me how we make a difference in so many lives.”
I continue to be inspired by our dedicated technologists, medical and nursing staff, allied health
professionals and all Heart Institute personnel. They are all unified in our mission to advance
innovative patient care, heart health, prevention, education, and ground-breaking research.
How do we bring our work to the next level? A big part of that answer is you.
We aspire to elevate our work further, and for that, we need your continued support. Together,
we can transform local programs into regional and national successes, and ultimately share our
advancements on a global scale.
On a personal note, my heart is heavy right now. Recently, I lost my father, Dr. Donald
Beanlands, who was a co-founder of the Institute. Our relationship was multifaceted; he was
both my dad and mentor.
I often sought his perspective through all the stages of my career. He would say, “You are in a
boat heading towards the sea; don’t get distracted by the crocodiles, keep sailing forward.” My
dad’s advice always helped me refocus, reassuring me that I was on the right path. His guiding
principles—the 3A’s: availability, affability, and ability—remain with me. He often reminded me
not to lose sight of our goals amid distractions.
As I contemplate our relationship, I realize he was my North Star—a constant source of guidance
and inspiration. I see his teachings and legacy in action every morning when I come to work.
I share these reflections with you as a partner in this important work that we do with your help.
We have accomplished much, but there is more work that is still needed. I want to underline
our commitment to “Heart Health for All.” Our mantra— This is your heart. Your
Institute. Our future, together—drives us forward.
We need you to continue your faith and your support of your Institute. During this February
is Heart Month, one of our busiest times to engage with the community, we look forward to
sharing this vision with you.
Our North Star is always putting patients first.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
Sincerely,
Dr. Rob Beanlands,
President & CEO
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
