Dr. Robert I. Greidanus, a member of WestEnd Christian Reformed Church in Edmonton, Alta., whose current practice is in Peace River, Alta., was honored by the Alberta College of Family Physicians as the province’s Family Physician of the Year for 2024.
The college’s website says the award honors physicians “who best exemplify what being a family doctor is all about: providing exceptional care to their patients, making significant contributions to the health and well-being of their community and society in general, and dedicating themselves to the education of future generations of family doctors.” Recipients of this award are nominated by their peers. One of the nominators noted that “Rob is a shining star among rural family physicians. He is a scholar, a teacher, a collaborator, an excellent communicator, a leader, a health advocate locally and internationally, a medical expert, and a professional.”
Greidanus said he feels humbled by the award, saying, “It was God who called me to this work, and it is he who equips me daily to fulfill that calling.”
Greidanus took part in the first of two ceremonies to celebrate the recognition on Nov. 8. A national ceremony to honor award-winners from all of the provinces and territories, it was hosted in Vancouver, B.C., where Greidanus was joined by his wife, Alisa, and five of their seven children (the youngest two were unable to attend due to school commitments). A second ceremony for the province of Alberta will take place in the spring of 2025.
“It is not common for this award to go to small-town doctors,” Greidanus said. “It means a lot to our town, the practice, and our patients.”
About the Author
Dan Veeneman works in the dairy industry as a ventilation specialist. He lives in Abbotsford, B.C., with his wife and three children. He is a member of Gateway Community Church.
