If you’re not a scientist you can be forgiven for thinking the hard part of research and discovery is having an original, “bright idea”. You’d be wrong! While knowledge, originality, curiosity, persistence, and inventiveness are prerequisites for scientific success, the real obstacle to being a biomedical scientist in Canada is getting and maintaining research funding.

The title of this blog is inspired by Pink Floyd’s new recording, Hey Hey Rise Up, performed with the Ukrainian singer Andriy Khlyvnyuk from the Ukrainian band Boom Box in support of the people of Ukraine. This inspirational song was originally sung acappella by Andriy Khlyvnyuk in a square in Kiev.

On some future earth a horrible disease threatens to destroy humanity. Against all odds, scientists find a cure! Even more improbably they mass produce the cure. The treatment proves safe and effective and the planet is saved…until 20% of the world’s people develop idiosyncratic beliefs and decline to take the cure. The disease surges back and becomes an ongoing scourge. 

An interview with Dr. Gayle Pulle from Health Canada reveals how a dedicated team worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the approval of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines under extraordinary circumstances!

Dr. Gayle Pulle

“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” G.K. Chesterton (poet, author; 1874-1936)

Dr. Karen Schultz, Associate Dean, Postgraduate Medical Education and Dr. Stephen Archer, Head, Department of Medicine (thank you to our 6 reviewers who helped shape our blog).