Dr. Stan Oleksinski stands up to be acknowledged (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Fourth Annual Doctors Gala

Local doctor recognized

Apr 7, 2019 | 12:41 PM

The Victoria Hospital Foundation honoured a long time family physician Saturday night.

Dr. Stan Oleksinski was recognized at the Fourth Annual Doctors Gala put on by the Victoria Hospital Foundation at Plaza 88.

Oleksinski, who has been practicing primarily in family medicine for over 30 years, was recognized for his work in medicine along with his dedication to the community. The hospital foundation made the decision to honour him after receiving a number of nominations and then having members vote.

Before Oleksinski got up to address the crowd, a video was played where colleagues and others spoke about how much they appreciated him and what he does, especially mentoring medical students and new doctors.

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When Oleksinski got up to speak to the gala, he told the crowd how thankful he was to hear the comments.

“I haven’t seen any of these videos and any of that kind of stuff prior to that, so thank you very much everybody for those very kind words, that was very, very nice,” he said.

While speaking, the doctor took the opportunity to acknowledge a number of people in the audience, including his family, friends and coworkers. Oleksinski’s speech was mostly light hearted drawing many laughs from the crowd, but he did take a moment to reflect on the anniversary of the Humboldt Broncos bus tragedy.

“We’re all lucky that we’re here tonight, not all are so fortunate, so I want you to bow your heads for a minute to honor those that were injured and died last year with the Humboldt Broncos tragedy,” he said.

Oleksinski took time to thank emergency services workers and health care providers for the work they did one year ago to help those injured in the collision.

The family physician remarked that being honoured has been part of what has so far been a good year for him and his family.

“This has actually been a very good year for me, in September my daughter became engaged to Kevin, in December, I don’t know if you know, I won a truck with the Saskatchewan touchdown lottery, then in February my son got engaged to Megan O’Leary and now I am getting this award,” he said.

Oleksinski said the only way the year could get better for him is if the Raiders win the Memorial Cup, a Canadian team wins the Stanley Cup and the Riders win the Grey Cup.

Near the end of his speech, Oleksinski thanked all the health care providers in attendance for their work and spoke about how thankful he is to do the work he does.

“This is my dream to be a physician, I truly feel blessed to be able to do this every day,” he said.

There was a large turnout to the Doctors Gala Saturday night at Plaza 88 (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn