Fireside chats with our presidents

It is a long-standing BCMJ tradition to publish an interview with the incoming president of Doctors of BC to allow members to learn a little about the backstory, history, and motivations of the individual who is going to lead us for the coming year.

A few years ago, I took over as the interviewer; the Board and journal staff felt that such important interviews should be done by the big boss, who should from then on be referred to as M’lord. It is also entirely possible that no one else wanted the job.

I remember preparing for my first interview by researching appropriate questions that would garner the most information and help reflect the true character of the interviewee. I distinctly recall the blank stares I received upon asking about the average wing speed of a hummingbird and the cube root of 1 367 631. Following my initial flawed interview attempt, the journal staff rescued me by providing a list of more suitable queries, the answers to which are now the basis for what shows up in print.

I have come to enjoy the process and look forward each year to spending an hour or so chatting with the next anointed one. The last two interviews have taken place remotely by video due to the pandemic but have been no less enjoyable (also, I didn’t have to be wearing pants).

I have been consistently impressed by the outstanding quality of each president I have interviewed. Upon hearing about all they have accomplished, and in some cases what they have overcome, I often ask myself, What have I been doing for the last 30 years? Maybe I should watch a little less Netflix and try to change the world (but that seems like it would take a lot of energy; plus, season five is streaming soon).

Our presidents seem to have boundless energy and are truly interested in medical politics. They share a passion for trying to make a difference and improving the environment for the physicians of BC. They have diverse interests, and despite taking on numerous work challenges, seem to have an amazing capacity to be well rounded and have time for their friends, families, and hobbies. I’m not sure where Doctors of BC finds these quality individuals (perhaps they are grown in a lab), but I applaud the process that produces such outstanding candidates.

My most recent sit-down with Dr Ramneek Dosanjh confirmed that the process works and that the doctors of BC are in good hands for the year ahead. I was very impressed by the challenges she has overcome and all that she has accomplished, both personally and professionally.

I look forward to watching from the sidelines as I click from streaming service to streaming service. Before I know it, this year will be over, and I will have the honor of interviewing our next president. Any questions you would like me to ask? Favorite color? Which animal has the largest platysma muscle?

Let me know.
—David R. Richardson, MD

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