Canadian Ismaili Healthcare Heroes

Irfan’s greatest lesson during the COVID-19 pandemic has been to avoid rushing through precious moments, and to slow down and enjoy his time with his family. As his 3-year-old daughter tells him, it is important to take the time to “stop and smell the flowers”, and to make the most of the present moment. Irfan’s advice during this time is to look after one another, to follow the advice of the experts, and to continue to help support each other through voluntary service and acts of kindness. He also encourages us to remain strong and trust that we will get through this difficult time together. When he is not working or volunteering, Irfan enjoys physical activities including hockey, skiing, hiking, and yoga.

Dr. Zahra’s greatest lesson during the COVID-19 pandemic was the importance of intellectual collaboration and integration in order to overcome global public health challenges and pandemics. As we are living in a connected world, he recognizes how our actions can have a far-reaching impact on others and our society, both positive and negative. Like many of us with families in other countries, a challenge for Dr. Zahra during this time was not being able to physically see or visit his parents during the pandemic. Dr. Zahra has also found positive impacts in this difficult time, including the opportunity to spend more time with his family, developing new innovative technologies and processes to tackle patient challenges and achieving his dream of obtaining a MIT certification during the last 16 months. Dr. Zahra enjoys reading theology, and collecting manuscripts to translate and deconstruct Ismaili philosophy. To help look after his own well-being, Dr. Zahra also finds time for self-care activities such as walking, listening to music and meditating.

Karima reflects that COVID-19 has impacted us all personally, and professionally. Looking back on the pandemic, Karima feels we have learned about the importance of health, work, resiliency, humanity, flexibility, and our capacity to come together as a community to help keep everyone safe. "The sacrifices so many have made collectively have enabled us to get through this together." She shares that the pandemic has given us an opportunity to revisit our priorities and reminded us that life is precious and we should express gratitude for all that we have. Karima enjoys working out and re-reading Harry Potter novels.

Sheinaz’s greatest lessons during the COVID-19 pandemic have been the importance of ensuring that Jamati members are receiving the correct information about the pandemic, as well as the value of reaching out to people to share resources. One of her greatest challenges during this time has been adapting her pharmacy practices to ensure quality virtual medication monitoring, and to continue to protect citizens, Jamati members, and her family. Sheinaz recognizes the importance of innovative contributions and partnerships with different disciplines in order to continue to support the health of the population. One piece of advice that she has for the Jamat and healthcare workers is that "we’re all in this together". When she is not working or volunteering, Sheinaz enjoys practicing yoga, meditation, and being physically active.

Sadaf reflects on the pandemic being a challenging time individually, for her family, and as a health care professional. "This pandemic meant working directly with COVID-19 patients for very long hours, taking additional safety precautions, and limiting contact with friends and family". Her faith, hope, and laughter has kept her motivated to continue to care for others. Sadaf took the time to check in and pray with her friends, family, and seniors in the community. Sadaf also created modules to address depression and actively listened to their concerns, and addressed them if possible. The pandemic has also taken a toll on Sadaf's mental health. she reflects that at times we neglect caring for ourselves as we are caring for others. To enhance her mental well-being, Sadaf regularly checks in with herself, engages in positive self-talk, writing about her feelings, yoga, long walks, and spiritual care. Sadaf shares that we need to take care of our mental health and well-being, and we all can play a significant part in doing so.

Serving as a Frontline Physician (and Alwaeza) during the dual pandemic has demanded deep reflection. Dr. Nagji has revisited existential questions such as "who am I?" and "where have I come from?" not only herself, but also via her patients' plight as she bears witness to those struggling with mental health and addictions, living in long term care homes or those who are navigating a pandemic pregnancy. "Equally vital has been the magnifying effect that COVID gifted". It widened and sharpened her view on what actually is valuable. Larger-than-life reminders like these are rare, so appreciating the 'golden lining' means that she (more easily) sees the small victories with renewed zeal, she chooses to revel in the daily details and her gratitude grows...regardless of the imperfections along the journey. One of her new found favorite books is "The Untethered Soul" - she feels this book should be used as curriculum in schools and as a primer for family conversations at the dinner table.

Arif reflects on many lessons learned during the pandemic - the greatest of which being that safe and reliable access to expert musculoskeletal care is essential. Arif worked to triage cases and provided Telehealth consultations for chronic and non-emergent cases, reducing the burden on emergency departments and limiting the spread of COVID-19. The need for urgent, acute, and regular musculoskeletal care has not ceased during the pandemic and Arif has strived to continue to provide this care in a safe and effective manner. Regular attendance in Jamatkhana, going to the gym, playing hockey, serving the community, enjoying my time at the clinic, and spending time with family and friends are things that bring Arif great joy.

Dr. Ladak reflects that upon the initial wave, there was tremendous uncertainty about what the road ahead would look like personally and professionally. "Personal resilience was challenged by unanticipated setbacks, and all the while performing professionally at peak levels". She realized that the lessons learned from past challenges were tools she was naturally drawing from, and this knowledge strengthened her problem solving. Dr. Ladak was able to lend this strength to others by mentoring colleagues and learners. She hopes the professional and personal growth she has experienced and continue to experience through COVID-19 prepare her to address future challenges. She relied on her tasbih, and held on to it on her way to the hospital every day. She also enjoys nature, and found that walking by the water in the early hours of the day was one of the best things she did to look after herself, and she will continue to do so.

Munira has witnessed first-hand the impact that the COVID-19 virus on patients, and fellow healthcare workers. Through this, one of the greatest lessons that she have learned during this is "to not take things (and more importantly) the people in our lives for granted. Even though the pandemic has changed the way we live our lives, we should never forget who we are at our core, and what our aspirations are. These aspirations can be professional, but personal as well. We should continue to live each day to the fullest within the restrictions outlined". But enjoying each day does not only mean doing the activities or going to the places that we are familiar with. COVID has taught her that there is always room to grow, regardless of your age. Taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill, and admiring the beauty that is in our own backyards, all these examples demonstrate ways that we can grow and develop as a person. Munira has always wanted to learn how to golf, and the pandemic gave her the opportunity to take up golfing with her two sons, becoming a new family tradition. Munira acknowledges the strain the pandemic has had on our mental health, and applauds her fellow healthcare workers across all disciplines. Munira's advice for the Jamat is to enjoy each and every day with no regrets. "Always be thankful, gracious, and humble for our health, our ability to spend time with our immediate family, and our drive to grow and learn more about the world and ourselves. Enjoy today for today, because tomorrow may never come." Munira enjoys gardening, and finds this is her place of calm and serenity.

During the pandemic, Niazmina witnessed many older adults passing away, and reflets on how challenging the grieving period has been. She encouraged older adults to wear masks, wash their hands, maintain physical distance, eat healthy, and remain active. "I was so busy being a caregiver that I almost assumed that this cannot ever happen to me - we think we are the exception". Despite taking precautions, Niazmina became infected with COVID-19 herself - reflecting on the challenging symptoms, difficulty of isolation, and the fear she felt. "Luckily, with everyone’s prayers I was able to heal and return to work but we take a lot of things for granted. Simple things like hugging my siblings were taken away from me. I started seeing life differently and there was more vigorous in promoting safety measures to combat COVID". Niazmina is spending a lot of time educating our Jamat, about the symptoms of COVID, vaccinations, and health and safety precautions. "This is my way of making a difference and this now is my mission."

One of the greatest challenges Shelina experienced as a nurse leader was sustaining the day-to-day Nursing operations for HealthLink BC, and simultaneously leading the expansion of telehealth and virtual care initiatives to enhance the delivery of evidence-based, patient-centred care offerings. Amidst the unprecedented surge in demand of services, she supported the implementation of innovative virtual care solutions and clinical care guidelines to protect the health and wellbeing of British Columbians. "I had to grapple with quick and often uncertain decision making to ensure optimal service delivery to the public, who relies on our organization to provide them with the necessary telehealth support 24/7 to make informed health decisions. Simultaneously, I fostered a supportive and connected working environment for my team of over 150 nurses during this challenging time." "The pandemic has brought forth numerous creative and innovative best practices that we, as healthcare professionals, should encourage and embrace". A book she recently enjoyed is "Rest, Refocus, Recharge: A Guide for Optimizing Your Life" by Greg Wells. Spending time with her children gives her a great sense of joy and balance. During this time of adversity, Shelina believe being guided by our ethics and values of compassion, generosity, and a sense of collective responsibility, will see us through to the end of this crisis. Moreover, these same values have guided her actions and work throughout her career.

Arisha believes COVID has impacted each person in a unique way. "Some may be experiencing loneliness, mental exhaustion, anxiety related to the outcome of the virus or even impacted financially". For herself, COVID-19 opened the door for psychological safety and taught her resiliency. Arisha took the opportunity to serve the community and the Jamat. As a fourth-year nursing student at the start of the pandemic, Arisha took the opportunity to assist in Long Term Care and worked to reduce the impact of loneliness the seniors may be experiencing by spending one on one time with the residents or advocating video call chats with their loved ones. These experiences gave her the confidence to practice nursing and communication skills, shaping her current nursing practice. Arisha has participated in mentorship programs through IICanada, to further provide support to Jamati students with schooling and career planning. Additionally, she offered the critical skill of CPR to the community. "I took opportunity to gain strength and compassion which will be an asset for the rest of my life". Arisha's favorite book is the "Power of Now". She also enjoys spending time with friends and family, yoga and meditation.

Rishma is part of the COVID-19 mobile team working collaboratively with Ottawa Public Health, hospitals and other key partners facilitating accessible and efficient health care delivery to at risk individual, families, and caregivers in urban and rural living environments. "This has been a humbling lived experience of learning, embracing the unknown, and pivoting to implement public health policies and practices to meet the shifting demands of the health crisis". Rishma's experience has allowed her to be guided by - "mindfulness versus mindlessness", "self-kindness versus self-judgement", and "human connection versus individualism". Rishma experienced the power of connection as a human family and embracing the mantra “we are all in this together”. Her regular practice of mindfulness - using breath as an “anchor” to center her in the loving connected presence and extend compassion towards herself and others has been the greatest gift to leverage better performance and wellbeing.

Alim’s greatest challenge during the pandemic was the inability to physically be with his loved ones during this difficult time, and to comfort them through the changes taking place in the world. As a healthcare worker, Alim has worked tirelessly to provide the best care to his patients, all while ensuring he continues to take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading any infections. When Alim connects with his colleagues worldwide, many of them echo the toll COVID has taken on frontline workers, which has impacted the mental health of many of them. He encourages his colleagues and healthcare workers to take the time to support their own mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. He has found new ways to wind down from a stressful shift and reflect, including walking, exercising, and meditating. Alim’s greatest lesson from this time has been the realization that life is short, and how important it is to make every day and every opportunity count. His advice is to continue to take care of yourselves and your loved ones, and to follow public health guidelines - including limiting your travel, wearing a mask, and keeping your cohort to your immediate family.

As a clinician, COVID presented Salima with clinical cases she had never seen before. She had also seen an extraordinary number of essential workers. It made her realize how fragile our mental health can be and that tools were needed to help people cope effectively through this pandemic. The pandemic taught her to re-prioritize and re-set her fundamental needs. She realized just how little we need and it helped her to focus on excluding all the excess noise in her daily routine. To simplify her life. To reduce unnecessary stressors. Dr. Ismail realized how much we all must value our opportunities to attend Jamatkhana, to meet our Jamat socially, and to deeply appreciate the awesome power of congregational prayer. Her all-time favourite book is "A Suitable Boy" by Vikram Seth. Her Favourite Author is a Canadian, Malcolm Gladwell. She also quite often rereads "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coehlo and "The 5 AM Club" by Robin Sharma. And as to the chagrin of her teenage son, she loves music-her genre (she grew up in the 80's!!). She loves to cook from fresh, organic local produce, she meditates 4-5 AM every day, and she loves to walk! Dr. Ismail found that these have really helped ground her stress levels. They have not only helped her physically but Physiologically and Psychologically as well. She has also reached out in a letter, a card or flowers to all of her relatives and friends around the world, to maintain that social network and stay connected.

Zenah’s greatest challenge during the pandemic has been finding time to rest and recharge. As a healthcare professional, she has worked long hours with her team to support the needs of her patients and the greater community. Zenah’s advice to the Jamat is to continue to follow public health guidelines. She has said, “with so many that have perished and who are suffering from COVID-19 we all need to do our part to stop the spread”. Although listening to the news can be overwhelming, Zenah also encourages the Jamat to continue to listen to important updates and stay educated on what is happening in our communities. Outside of her many roles, Zenah enjoys reading and exercising to help destress, as well as listening to podcasts to keep up to date on major stories in Canada and globally.

Safiqa has been instrumental in the strategic planning and implementation of COVID-19 prevention and management for 120 residents and over 150 staff members. One of her greatest lessons during this time has been to remain flexible – this year has been unpredictable and it has reinforced the importance of being adaptable in a constantly changing environment. Through a hands-on, transparent, and compassionate approach to well-being and mentorship, Safiqa has worked hard to build trust with residents and staff members; that she will act in their best interest; that she will care for each resident and staff; and that will she be there to lead the team as we all navigate the pandemic together. Safiqa’s advice during this time is to take challenges in stride, appreciate the small victories, and celebrate the small achievements. Outside of her role, Safiqa is an avid podcast listener. Her favourite podcasts include This American Life, Radio Lab, Ideacast, and Freakonomics.

The greatest lesson that Zahra has learned is to not take her health, including mental health, for granted during this time. Zahra’s greatest challenge during the pandemic has been staying connected to others. Between balancing her role as a physician, focusing on her family, managing a move across the country, she has found it difficult to find opportunities to connect. However, the pandemic has also allowed her to slow down and savour moments at home with her family and children. Her advice to the Jamat is to take the time to focus on mental health and well-being. In Zahra’s words: “COVID-19 is only one illness we want to avoid, [and] the mental health impact of fear, social isolation, inability to attend Jamatkhana, and not being able to see an end to [the pandemic] can be profound”. She encourages the Jamat to reach out to loved ones, physicians, the Jamati Medical Advisory Services, or a counsellor for support if needed. Outside of her role and voluntary work, Zahra enjoys recharging by finding a quiet space to read a good book with a hot cup of chai.

The greatest challenge for the Mohamed's during the pandemic has been coping with the emotional stressors that the pandemic has brought about and seeing people in need due to the effects of COVID-19. However, Meera and Rex continue to work tirelessly to help curb the spread of the virus and have found deeper meaning in their work. Their greatest lessons during this time have been the importance of family ties as well as the value of small gestures, such as a phone call checking in on someone’s well-being. Their advice for the Jamat during this time is to continue to stay home and stay safe to stop the spread of the virus together as a community. Rex and Meera also wanted to share a message to their fellow healthcare workers: “We understand what you may be feeling or going through and it isn’t easy to be on the frontlines of the pandemic. However, just know that we are all superheroes amidst this crisis”. Meera and Rex enjoy meditation, taking the time each day to practice their faith, and reflecting on the blessings each day brings.

Alshaba’s greatest lesson during this time has been to embrace learning, the value of slowing down, and being intentional with her time. During the pandemic, she recognized the toll that her usual fast-paced life was taking on her physical and mental well-being, and she took the opportunity to realign her values and priorities. Alshaba’s advice to the Jamat is to set aside time to take care of ourselves. The pandemic has affected all of us in unique ways, and as a population, we are seeing increased levels of chronic stress which can impact our physical body and mental health. Without some of our regular coping mechanisms available (such as visiting gyms or seeing loved ones in person), Alshaba recommends that individuals find new ways to engage in self-care and take the time needed to recharge. For Alshaba, self-care involves going for a walk outside to help ground herself – even if it is just for a few minutes, and listening to her favourite podcasts.

One of Jahaan’ara’s greatest challenges during this time has been supporting her mental health. Like many healthcare workers during the pandemic, Jahaan’ara has worked extensively, and keeping up morale in the workplace has been difficult due to the stresses of COVID-19. However, Jahaan’ara has been supported by her incredible team and together they created healthy habits to prevent team burnout. Her advice to the Jamat is the importance of getting vaccinated if possible, to help us get through this difficult time. In her spare time, Jahaan’ara enjoys reading and online spin classes She also values the importance of participating in prayers and personal reflection.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Manji and his team continued to manage cancer patients at the B.C. Cancer Agency as these treatments were essential and could not be deferred. His Oncology Department followed strict public health measures of hand hygiene and masking, and increased sanitization of their unit between patients. While these practices increased the time needed to treat each patient, they were critical to ensuring safe care for cancer patients in a pandemic. One of the challenges Dr. Manji experienced during the pandemic was patients putting off visits to their family physicians or the ER due to the fear of contracting COVID-19. This fear has led to delays in seeking care and screening for important illnesses such as cancer, which will be a big challenge for the healthcare system. Dr. Manji’s advice for the Jamat and the public is to seek care without any hesitation and delay if you develop symptoms and feel that you need to be seen by a healthcare provider. When he is not working or volunteering, Dr. Manji enjoys reading autobiographies, watching National Geographic documentaries and listening to Gazals.

One of the greatest challenges Ashifa has experienced as a healthcare provider has been finding new ways to provide her patients with comfort and care during their vulnerable moments, while remaining masked and physically distant. As her patients are severely immunocompromised, Ashifa continues to diligently practice safety protocols. Ashifa’s message is to remain patient during these unprecedented times, as this too will pass. She also encourages everyone to continue to follow the recommendations from public health authorities to ensure everyone remains safe.