Classmates reunite for adventure in South Asia

In the wilderness of Nepal, Dr. Janice Pasieka, MD'83, and Dr. Nancy Cullen, MD'83, hiked for hours to reach a remote medical centre.

Part of a 37-person medical team, the Schulich Medicine alumnae volunteered at a temporary health camp in April 2013, serving the needs of Junbesi and surrounding regions. The clinic was facilitated by the Kushudebu Public Health Mission, a non-profit working in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal.

The group consisted of several doctors with sub-specialties, a dentist, physiotherapist, pharmacist, nurses, paramedics and students. Many patients travelled for several hours, some overnight, to reach the clinic.

During the four days, the medical team conducted 700 consultations and dispensed more than 2,000 prescription items.

Throughout the experience, "I was amazed at how happy and content the people of Nepal were," said Dr. Cullen. "They were extremely grateful for our advice and treatment and thankful for our expertise."

Dr. Cullen relocated to Adelaide, Australia in the mid-90s, having previously completed a fellowship there. She is a Staff Consultant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and specializes in orthopaedics. Dr. Pasieka lives in Calgary, practising general surgery with a special interest in endocrinology.

The two women have remained close friends since their medical school days at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.

It was through a connection with Dr. Cullen's daughter and her school community in Australia that the Nepalese journey came about. Dr. Cullen and Dr. Pasieka, along with another close Canadian friend and doctor, jumped at the opportunity to travel abroad together and provide their medical expertise.

The school friends plan to return to Nepal another year to help again. "Although we live hemispheres apart, we have remained dear friends that always seem to be able to pick up where we left off," said Dr. Pasieka. "A true friendship that grows with each adventure we share."