We sat down with two new medical staff members for Canadian Women Physicians Day to learn more about these rising stars and their advice for women in medicine.
Southlake Health is proud to work with many talented women physicians who bring expertise, compassion, and leadership to our medical teams. On Canadian Women Physicians Day, we celebrate the incredible medical professionals who lead, heal, and inspire every day. From providing exceptional patient care to advancing medical innovation, their contributions shape the future of healthcare in Canada.
Meet Nurfiza Ladak, MD: Bringing Expertise in Laboratory Medicine to Southlake Health
Southlake Health welcomed Nurfiza Ladak, MD, a highly trained specialist in Laboratory Medicine and Hematopathology, to our team in July 2024. Dr. Ladak’s journey in medicine has taken her across the globe — from Queen’s University in Kingston, to medical training in Ireland, followed by a residency and fellowship in New York City. She is now bringing her expertise and passion for diagnostic medicine to our community.
Specializing in Laboratory Medicine
Dr. Ladak’s work focuses on both surgical and clinical pathology, playing a crucial role in diagnosing and staging diseases, including cancer. To further specialize, Dr. Ladak completed a fellowship in Hematopathology, gaining advanced expertise in blood cancers, lymphomas, and other blood-related disorders. She is currently acting as the Transfusion Medicine Medical Director, overseeing any transfusion reactions or issues, such as an emergent need for blood with no perfect match available.
What is pathology and its branches?
- Surgical Pathology: examining biopsies and surgical specimens to diagnose conditions and stage cancers.
- Clinical Pathology: overseeing laboratory tests related to hematology, chemistry, and blood analysis to support patient care.
What this means for Southlake and the communities it serves
Southlake’s Laboratory Medicine team plays a vital role in patient care, and Dr. Ladak’s expertise strengthens our ability to diagnose and manage complex cases. With a high volume of hematopathology cases, including bone marrow and lymphoma workups, her contributions will help advanced care for patients across our region.
Dr. Ladak’s advice for up-and-coming Canadian women physicians:
“The gender split on my team at Southlake is 50/50, but throughout my medical training and residency, men outnumbered women. You adapt to that environment, but having female mentors who understand these dynamics is invaluable. They recognize challenges women face in male-dominated fields and actively support and uplift the next generation, helping them navigate similar obstacles. My residency program director was an incredible mentor to me, and I hope to pass that forward one day. I’d also like to recognize the other women in my department who have been fundamental to my on-boarding and adjustment to life at Southlake. Thank you, Dr. Handy, Dr. Schatz, Dr. Misztal, and Dr. Chan!”
Meet Bonnie Cheung, MD: Southlake Health’s new Endocrinologist Dedicated to Patient-Centered Care
Bonnie Cheung, MD is a specialist in Endocrinology and joined Southlake Health in October 2024. She is passionate about providing patient-centered care through her expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions related to hormones and endocrine gland function. Dr. Cheung completed her medical training at the University of Toronto and brings her passion for hormonal health, diabetes management, and patient education to Southlake.
A Passion for Endocrinology
As an Endocrinologist, Dr. Cheung treats a wide range of hormone-related conditions, including those affecting the pancreas, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, and reproductive system.
“What drew me to endocrinology was the fascinating way the body regulates itself through feedback loops to maintain balance,” Dr. Cheung explains. “I also enjoy the long-term relationships I build with patients, especially since many endocrine conditions require ongoing management.”
With diabetes on the rise as one of the most common chronic health conditions, there is no shortage of exciting research and innovative work. Endocrinology is an evolving field, given the advancements in technology, medications, and lifestyle interventions.
“It’s not just about prescribing medication—it’s about empowering patients to take control of their health and make sustainable lifestyle changes.”
Why Southlake Health?
Dr. Cheung first experienced Southlake during a residency elective, where she was immediately drawn to the supportive and collaborative atmosphere among physicians, allied health professionals, and patients.
“The community here is warm and welcoming, and I knew I wanted to be part of a team that is dedicated to patient care,” she shared. “The Endocrinology department and Diabetes Education Clinic have a hardworking, compassionate team, and I could really see myself growing with them.”
Dr. Cheung’s advice for up-and-coming Canadian women physicians:
“As I grow in my career and work with other female physicians, I’ve come to better appreciate the many roles women in medicine juggle between — physician, mother, daughter, caregiver, and more. Early in training, it’s easy to focus solely on career advancement, but it’s just as important to prioritize these other roles. My advice is to choose a workplace and community that supports you not just as a physician, but in all aspects of your life.”
