SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - 35 Years at REACH — REACH Community Health Centre

“It is with much admiration and great respect that I would like to celebrate the contributions of Dr. Lalya Wickremasinghe. She has served as a family physician at REACH for some 35 years. Personally, I had the privilege to exchange ideas with her on numerous occasions over the years. When in doubt, I often sought her advice and perspective. Lalya is thoughtful and thorough in her communications and not much escapes her. Humble, she will never admit to how her contributions made a huge difference to how we do business at REACH. Please take time to read what she has to say. You will not regret it!”

Nicole LeMire, Executive Director

“REACH is a special place to work. I have been fortunate to work with exceptionally dedicated clinical staff over the years. The team consisting of doctors, nurses, counsellors, social worker, MOAs, other allied care, dental and pharmacy staff, medical residents, and volunteers, assisted by MFC and admin support has allowed a standard of patient care that I am so proud to be a part of. During my 35 years at REACH, I have seen the clinic adapt and change to better serve our changing community needs. This flexibility, I believe, is the reason for REACH’s success and longevity.

When there is extraordinary leadership at the level of the Executive director, the Board, Medical Director, and Department Managers, as we have right now, that’s when magic happens! Despite the significant challenges in the entire health care system over the past few years, REACH has not just survived, but expanded in significant ways. The building of the UPCC, expanding pharmacy services, responding to the opioid crisis, initiating actions towards Truth and Reconciliation are just some of the many examples.

The most important component of the Clinic is our patients. Their demographic has changed over time, but there are many who have been patients for more than 50 years and are quick to remind me that they have been at REACH longer than I have! I have several families in my practice where I have cared for 4 generations from great-grandparents to new babies! My patients at REACH have made my career one of the most rewarding a doctor could have.

I am grateful for the mentorship and guidance I have received and continue to receive. There are too many people to thank individually, but I have to say that when I am in a difficult situation, I still ask myself “what would Sandi do?”, of course referring to Dr. Sandi Witherspoon.

REACH has a fascinating history and the strength of an amazing staff and Board which has sustained it for more than 50 years. With the energy and talents of our newest members I know that REACH will continue to thrive long after my tenure here.”

Dr. Lalya Wickremasinghe