LONDON, ONTARIO

Dr. Sayra Cristancho became WAY’s first COI in 2023. Currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery and a Scientist at the Centre for Education Research & Innovation (CERI) within the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada, Dr. Cristancho obtained her PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. Her research delves into the dynamics of teamwork during crises, particularly focusing on teams’ adaptability in unforeseen circumstances. Her overarching aim is to enhance the training and performance of rapid response healthcare teams.

In her words, “In the Latino culture, it is not uncommon for older grandparents to move in with one of their children’s family. I had the great fortune of growing up with our maternal grandfather living with us. I refer to it as a “fortune” because it allowed me to gain a tremendous appreciation and respect for seniors. My grandfather lived well into his late 80’s but not without illness. He suffered from Parkinson’s disease and pancreatic cancer. My parents assigned us chores around his care which taught us valuable lessons. For instance, I was in charge of turning on the tv so he could watch Mass on Sundays at 6am. As a teenager that could feel like a nuisance, but later I realized how simple acts of giving can transform a seniors’ enjoyment of life. Sundays was a happy day, he told me. The way WAY strives to bring seniors simple moments of happiness struck a chord with me through the memory of my grandfather. I would like to see many seniors smile in the same way my grandfather smiled on Sundays. And that is what motivates me to support WAY!”