CCS Statement on the Passing of Dr. Donald S. Beanlands

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society is profoundly saddened to have learned of the passing of Dr. Donald S. Beanlands last Thursday. As a world-renowned cardiologist and a long-standing CCS member, Dr. Beanlands co-founded the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and served as the institute’s first head of cardiology. He has made countless contributions to Canadian cardiovascular care, and is deeply respected by all those whose lives he has touched. Dr. Beanlands was also one of the first to receive the CCS Distinguished Teacher/Mentor award.

“Through his leadership and commitment to his patients and their families, his trainees who now practice across Canada and around the world, and the staff who respected him, it has been said that he changed the practice of medicine and cardiology in Ottawa and Canada forever,” his obituary said. “His legacy will always be carried in the hearts of those for whom he cared, and those he mentored and guided.” We extend our sincere condolences to Dr. Beanlands’ colleagues and family, including his son and CCS member, Dr. Robert Beanlands.