Victoria Surgeon Dr. Heather Emmerton-Coughlin Champions Women’s Health

Dr. Heather Emmerton-Coughlin, a prominent surgeon in Victoria, is taking significant steps to enhance women’s health and cancer care. Recognized as the Inspiring Island Woman for the week, she has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Currently, one in eight women is expected to face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, with the disease accounting for approximately 13 percent of all cancer-related deaths among women.

Reflecting on her early aspirations, Emmerton-Coughlin initially envisioned a career as an astronaut after interning with the Canadian Space Agency. However, she soon realized that the solitary nature of that profession did not align with her desire to connect with and assist people directly. “It isn’t the same as being able to really sit with people here and interact with people and eventually to help people,” she stated.

Through her work as a surgeon, Emmerton-Coughlin has profoundly impacted many lives. Her professional assistant, Kristi Thomas, has worked alongside her for nine years and emphasized the admiration many have for the surgeon. “She’s just always so thoughtful, passionate,” said Thomas. “Everyone usually leaves the room saying, ‘Oh my god, she’s wonderful, she’s just so amazing.’”

Pioneering Cancer Care Initiatives

With a focus on cancer treatment, Emmerton-Coughlin co-founded the South Island breast cancer program, the first of its kind in the region. This innovative initiative allows women to be swiftly matched with a surgeon who can provide the necessary care. “System delays are often one of the hardest parts, and so we wanted to make sure women were getting their care as efficiently as possible, and this has really allowed for that,” she explained.

Her commitment to women’s health was significantly shaped during her residency when she met a young cancer patient who was palliative. “She taught me that there can be joy even in those darkest moments, where there isn’t hope still for a cure but there is hope, still, for a meaningful life,” Emmerton-Coughlin recalled. This experience solidified her drive to advocate for women facing similar challenges.

Beyond her surgical practice, Emmerton-Coughlin is an active participant in fundraising efforts aimed at supporting healthcare initiatives. At the Victoria Hospitals Foundation Visions Gala held in November 2023, she played a vital role in raising a record-breaking 3.7 million USD for surgical care in the Greater Victoria area. “She always makes it really clear how transformational it is, the equipment that our donors fund for her practice or her patients,” remarked Colleen Bronson of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation.

A Fulfilled Life and a Bright Future

While being a surgeon may not carry the same allure as space exploration, the 45-year-old Emmerton-Coughlin finds immense fulfillment in her work and her family life. As a married mother of two, she expresses gratitude for her career and the opportunity to make a difference in the community. “I feel blessed every day that I get to do what I do,” she stated. “We are so privileged to live on this beautiful Island.”

The current campaign by the Victoria Hospitals Foundation aims to further support women’s health initiatives. Donations can be made through their website.

Emmerton-Coughlin’s dedication to improving women’s health and cancer care serves as an inspiring model of compassion and commitment in the medical community.