Founders Update
Dr. Aubrey Shannon
This year has been a fulfilling and dynamic journey, both personally and professionally. We began the year on the snow with the talented athletes of Canada Snowboard at the Whistler camp. Working with these athletes and witnessing their dedication in action is such a special and rewarding part of what I do. As if that weren’t enough, we were treated to an epic powder day by Mother Nature—a perfect way to kick off the year!
In the spring, I had the chance to reconnect with my roots, traveling with my big sister and my little one up to Terrace, BC. There, we introduced my son to his great-great-aunt, a retired librarian with a truly remarkable collection of photographs documenting three generations of our Shannon family. It was a heartwarming experience, full of connection and nostalgia.
The summer was a whirlwind of friends, family, and cherished gatherings. Most weekends, we packed up and left the city we love, exploring everywhere from Tofino to Ontario, Calgary, and the beautiful Shuswap Lake. These getaways were a chance to recharge, reconnect, and make incredible memories with the people closest to us.
As always, fall was a season of learning and growth. I dedicated time to expanding my skills by completing ultrasound and injection courses while diving into a number of books. A standout read was The New Menopause by Dr. Marie Claire Haver, alongside insightful parenting books like Hold On to Your Kids, Raising Good Humans, Tiny Humans, Big Emotions, and Raising a Secure Child. These resources prompted deep reflection on my own childhood and parenting journey. My husband and I have been collaborating on strategies to navigate our toddler’s BIG emotions, working together to manage parenting frustrations and create a supportive, loving environment for our little one.
Finally, this winter has brought so much joy as our toddler has started to embrace our family’s passion for winter sports. We’ve been thrilled to bring him onto the mountain, and to our delight, he’s let us drag him around with only minimal protest! It’s been so exciting to share the magic of the mountains with him and watch him begin to love this part of our lives.
Thank you for allowing me to share a little about my year with you. As we move forward into this next chapter, I’m reminded of the importance of balance, connection, and always finding moments to learn and grow. I’m so grateful to be on this journey with you all.
Dr. Lauren Browne
Reflecting on this past year feels like looking back on a beautiful whirlwind. We welcomed our son, Beau, into the world a few weeks earlier than expected, embarking on the incredible journey of parenthood. I am grateful to my partners, Aubrey and Tanelle, as well as the entire team at Friday Health, for their support while I stepped away from my professional life. Their encouragement allowed me to fully embrace motherhood and cherish every precious newborn cuddle (and there were plenty!). I rounded out my maternity leave with a family trip to Whistler, where we soaked in the beauty of the mountains and shared time with loved ones.
In late spring, I eased back into my practice part-time, reconnecting with clients and rediscovering the joy of my work. Those first months were all about finding a rhythm and balancing my roles as a mom and professional. Thankfully, I found my stride quickly! Beau and I also embarked on a summer “tour,” visiting family on Hornby Island, Calgary, and Ontario.
On Hornby Island, Beau experienced the magic of my dad’s farm, from exploring vegetable gardens and meeting baby lambs to discovering mountain bike trails and dipping his toes in the ocean for the first time. In Calgary, he was showered with love as he met my family and childhood friends. Finally, in Ontario, we spent a week at the cottage where Beau became more comfortable in the water, spotted his first snake, and mastered the art of falling asleep on boat rides.
After a summer filled with adventure and cherished memories, the fall brought a slower, reflective pace as we prepared for a major milestone: moving into our new home. Now, as we settle into this next chapter, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the blessings of this year—our growing family, the adventures we’ve shared, and the love and support that surrounds us.
Dr. Tanelle Westgard
As the year comes to a close, I’m filled with gratitude reflecting on the moments and milestones that have made 2024 so special. This has been a year woven together by love, strengthened through connections, brightened by joy, and enriched by growth. Here are some of the highlights:
From snowy adventures in Whistler to sunny days by the water, time spent with family and friends nurtured my soul. Celebrating milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, and weddings brought so much warmth and connection.
Near the beginning of the year, I spent some time in the sun with my family. Watching my niece and nephews grow has been a highlight, as they bring me more joy than I can express. I was fortunate to spend quality time in the sun celebrating a dear friend, and fellow Naturopath’s wedding. There is something so special about the bond we all share and being together again is a reminder of the connections we planted years back that we continue to see grow. I then celebrated a milestone birthday with my friends and family – Casino Royal-themed. I brought my snowbird grandparents to see the clinic, a memory filled with joy and gratitude. My grandfather may have bought us out of Friday hats. We then embarked on a trip to Italy to be a part of my cousin’s dream wedding. Those two weeks were filled with celebration, adventure, appreciation, and reflection. For those who know me, family is my everything.
This year, I leaned into growth, both personally and professionally. I took continuing education courses to deepen my knowledge and expertise in Naturopathic Medicine. I also embarked on guitar lessons—a humbling yet rewarding pursuit.
Near the end of the year, I embarked on a trip of a lifetime to Namibia with my mom. This trip exceeded my expectations in almost every way. My connection to nature deepened and it was a time of great reflection and perspective.
As we prepare to step into 2025, I’m excited to continue to build on all the wonderful things this year brough. Thank you for being a part of my journey. Wishing you a holiday season filled with joy and a new year overflowing with love, connection, and growth.
Training Updates
Neuro Acupuncture
This year, one of our acupuncturists, Maryam Ghasemi R.Ac, PhD, completed a continued education course through the Neuro-Acupuncture Institute focused on the treatment of acute and chronic central nervous system disorders. Neuro-acupuncture is a contemporary acupuncture technique that integrates traditional Chinese needling methods and scalp acupuncture with Western medical knowledge of neurology, neuroscience, and neurological rehabilitation. Some of the conditions that can benefit from Chinese scalp acupuncture include tinnitus, hearing loss, multiple sclerosis, paralysis, and even psychological disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Click the link to book a discovery call and learn more about how neuro-acupuncture can help you!
Transvaginal Ultrasound
In the Fall, our clinic founders completed a transvaginal ultrasound training. They learned how to visualize and measure the endometrium, visualize the ovaries and any abnormalities such as cysts, locate IUDs to confirm their placement within the uterus, and so much more! Transvaginal ultrasounds provide clinicians with valuable information to help guide treatment for conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), menopause, endometriosis, and more. If you want to learn more about how transvaginal ultrasounds can benefit you, consider booking a discovery call with one of our naturopathic doctors.
Sports Medicine Ultrasound Level 3 Bootcamp
In the fall, our clinic founders completed the Sports Medicine Ultrasound Level 3 Bootcamp, an advanced and intensive course that took their training to the next level. With a focus on advanced diagnostic skills and clinical applications, they gained hands-on experience in visualizing deeper structures, identifying subtle abnormalities, and refining their ability to assess complex musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic injuries, joint pathologies, and soft tissue tears. This specialized training equips our naturopathic doctors to provide even more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments to optimize recovery, improve function, and enhance athletic performance. If you’re curious about how advanced musculoskeletal ultrasound can support your health or athletic goals, consider booking a discovery call with one of our naturopathic doctors!
Award Update
We are incredibly honoured to announce that Friday Health has been voted Best Naturopathic Clinic in Vancouver by the Georgia Straight. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing exceptional care and supporting our patients on their health journeys. Thank you to our community for your trust and support!
Newsletter Update
Friday Health is excited to announce that we will be releasing bi-monthly newsletters to help our patients stay up to date on the latest and greatest at Friday Health! Some topics you can look out for in the coming months include:
- 5 books on our 2025 reading list
- Tips and tricks for making those New Years resolutions come true
- Everything you need to know about hormone replacement therapy in menopause
- New PAP guidelines
- A guide to regenerative injection therapy
New Staff
Practitioners
Dr. Seema Kanwal, ND – With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr Seema Kanwal uses a highly integrative approach, addressing both acute and chronic conditions that may have previously gone undiagnosed. She sets herself apart as one of the few naturopathic physicians in Canada trained in the Apo E Diet, offering specialized expertise in personalized nutrition. Dr. Kanwal’s practice philosophy centers around disease prevention, emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs. She empowers her patients to take an active role in their health journey, guiding them towards optimal wellness through lifestyle modifications and personalized interventions.
Arissa Martin, Osteopathic Manual Practitioner
Lab Technicians
Gbemisola Olutogun, Naturopathic intern at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Nick Parsi, Naturopathic intern at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Emily Unterberger, Naturopathic intern at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Reception
Sophia Conradi, Third-year student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Jaelyn Miscavitch, Third-year student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Jaeden Moerike, Third-year student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Chandan Dhillon, Third-year student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Clinic Dogs
And of course, a special thanks to our clinic dogs!
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, the field of naturopathic medicine is continually evolving, and individual health circumstances vary. Therefore, the information herein may not apply to your specific health situation.
Please be aware that engaging with this blog does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. For personalized medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment plans, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a qualified naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider.
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