September

Dr Barrie Purves died 11 March 2016 from complications of multiple myeloma for which he had been successfully treated for nearly 14 years. He is survived by his wife, Sherrill Purves; three daughters; and four grandchildren.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Jim Holmes on 3 June 2016.

I am deeply honored to have been asked by his family to write a few words about my very good friend and colleague.

Jim leaves behind his best friend and bride of 55 years, Dixie; his daughters Lisa (Brian), Shelley (Ron), and Jackie (Mark); his son, Robert (Theresa); and a brood of 10 grandchildren who all adored him.

Population estimates indicate there are approximately 12 000 adults with moderate and severe congenital heart disease (CHD) in British Columbia. The significant increase in patient numbers (estimated growth to be more than 5% per year) is attributable to the excellent survival outcomes for young patients with CHD achieved in past decades and the greater awareness of services for these patients.

The College fully appreciates the difficulty in treating patients with medical conditions or symptomatology for which an effective treatment cannot be found, or for which the patient is unable to pay.

I and every doctor in British Columbia received the new College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC professional standards on safe prescribing last week to address the public health emergency related to opioid overdoses. This is a new professional standard to assist physicians with the challenging task of prescribing opioids, benzodiazepines, and other medications.