What’s Next for the Dr. WG Project

The Dr. Wayne Gulliver Project

Preserving a Legacy of Innovation and Compassion

Consider dermatology differently. Dr. Gulliver never once stopped probing, seeking new solutions, or finding discoveries where no one else thought to look. The Dr. Wayne Gulliver Project aims to continue his quest through a variety of programs and initiatives. 

Here are several concepts under consideration. We welcome your comments, suggestions, and contributions.

1. Providing Philanthropic Support for Local Services in Wayne's Beloved St. John's, NL

• The Dr. Leonard A. Miller Centre is the central public rehabilitation hospital for Newfoundland and Labrador. The Miller Centre's rehabilitation team offers services for prosthetics and orthotics, as well as seating clinics, which are sometimes referred to as rehabilitation technology. Prosthetic and orthotic devices are manufactured, fitted, modified and repaired at the Dr. L. A. Miller Centre. Significantly, the cost of artificial limbs, braces and wheelchair equipment is not covered by the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP), placing an added hardship on patients lacking funds to pay for these essential needs. The Gulliver Project intends to campaign for MCP coverage for essential mobility aids for all Newfoundland and Labrador patients. Please join our effort.

• The Vera Perlin Society is a not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual disabilities. The mission of The Vera Perlin Society is to secure and/or provide quality service and support for all individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in St. John's and surrounding areas, enabling them to participate in all areas of community living. Donate to the Vera Perlin Society in memory of Dr. Gulliver by clicking here. Contact them at info@veraperlinsociety.ca

2. Fostering Informed Discussion

To continue the conversations that Dr. Gulliver championed, the project will host a series of webinars and symposia. These events will focus on the areas that most intrigued him, encouraging lively debate and the exchange of new ideas. Potential topics include:

• The future of genetic research in dermatology.

• Innovative treatments for psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa.

• The intersection of traditional and modern medicine, inspired by his role as an Adjunct Professor at Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

• The role of the dermatologist in a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

3. The Sustainable "Wayne Project": Considering Dermatology Differently

This initiative will be the cornerstone of the project's long-term vision, embodying Dr. Gulliver's unique approach to medicine. The "Wayne Project" will be guided by four vital elements:

(a) A Global Perspective: Fostering international collaborations and encouraging Canadian dermatologists to engage with global health challenges.

(b) Ambitiously Pursuing Big Ideas: Establishing a grant or award for early-career researchers who propose audacious, high-risk, high-reward projects that have the potential to transform the field.

(c) Undertaking Practical, Original Approaches: Creating a platform to showcase and disseminate innovative clinical practices and care models that challenge the status quo.

(d) Engaging All Stakeholders: Actively involving patients, nurses, and other healthcare team members in research and policy discussions.

4. Recognizing the Unheralded Contributions

In the spirit of Dr. Gulliver's humility and respect for all members of the healthcare team, an annual award will be created to recognize the "unsung heroes" of dermatology. This award will celebrate the contributions of nurses, care team members, administrative staff, and custodial staff who contribute to a positive and effective clinical environment.

5. Examining Socio-Economic Class and Access to Healthcare in Canada

Inspired by Dr. Gulliver's own journey from humble beginnings and his understanding that education was a path out of poverty, this initiative will fund research and host policy roundtables on the intersection of socio-economic class and healthcare in Canada. This will build on existing research that shows significant health disparities based on income and education. The goal will be to identify actionable strategies to reduce these inequities in access to care, education, and research opportunities.

6. Encouraging the "Next Wave" of Wayne Gullivers

To nurture the next generation of leaders and innovators, the project will establish a mentorship program and a scholarship fund for medical students and residents from Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as across Canada, including First Nations individuals. This program will connect aspiring dermatologists with established leaders in the field, providing guidance, support, and encouragement to pursue ambitious careers in clinical practice and research.

7. Promoting Suicide Prevention and Stress Management

In light of Dr. Gulliver's passing, this initiative will be dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being within the healthcare profession. The project will partner with organizations like the Mental Health Commission of Canada to:

• Promote the use of free, accredited online suicide prevention modules for healthcare professionals.

• Develop and disseminate resources on stress management and burnout prevention.

• Host workshops and confidential support sessions for physicians and other healthcare workers.

• Advocate for systemic changes to create a more supportive and sustainable work environment in healthcare, acknowledging the statistic that a significant percentage of individuals who die by suicide have had recent contact with a primary care provider.

Please contact us for more information:
Susanne Gulliver

Mitch Shannon