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“Many inspirational women in my past have helped me get to where I am,” says Dr. G. Jane Roberts, who grew up with more than one medical professional in her family tree.
Dr. Roberts’ grandmother was a surgeon and her mother is a paediatrician. When she decided at an early age that she wanted to turn “playing doctor” into taking care of patients too, her mother was a source of wisdom and encouragement. “She was a very good role model of ‘If you really want to do it, it’s hard work’,” she remembers.
After earning her medical degree, Dr. Roberts explored various hospitals before finding her professional home at Oak Valley Health’s Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH). She was introduced to MSH by another remarkable woman, paediatrician Dr. Deepa Grewal, whose energy and enthusiasm made Dr. Roberts want to join the team. “From the beginning, it was a wonderful environment,” Dr. Roberts reflects. “Supportive, lovely, and so focused on giving the best patient care we can.”
Since joining MSH seven years ago, Dr. Roberts has played a pivotal role in developing specialized clinics in paediatric care from the ground up, including the Elimination Clinic and the Paediatric Lifestyle Clinic addressing the increasing burden of childhood obesity. “I could honestly say that almost every year, there's been an exciting new venture for the Paediatrics Department,” Dr. Roberts comments.
“My days are, put your roller skates on and go,” she says, smiling. “I love that my patients come from different places around the world, different backgrounds, different ideologies even, and that it doesn't make a difference to patient care — it enriches the interaction.”
MSH’s vibrant community includes donors who go above and beyond to enhance patient care. Dr. Roberts is quick to highlight their generosity and the difference it makes in ensuring the hospital is equipped with exceptional resources and facilities. “A lot of people don't realize the amount of support that directly comes from private individuals, and companies as well,” she says.
Being named an MSH Hero is a special honour for Dr. Roberts. She views it as an opportunity to inspire the community to make a positive impact in health care, for generations to come.
“I get to tell my story and explain why I love working here. Maybe that will motivate someone to support the hospital more,” she reflects. “Maybe it will motivate a high school student to think about paediatrics as a profession, and then we get more good people to take on the next legacy.”
