CHRISTMAS FUND

Doctor ready to get to work

When Elvina’s husband was presented with an opportunity for research work at McGill University a year and a half ago, the pair made the decision to move across the Atlantic with their young son from their home in England. Doing so, however, meant needing to make some tough decisions. “I had to give up my job in England and it’s been quite difficult to get settled and restarted,” Elvina said. Though a certified physician in the U.K., Elvina has still not been able to obtain a licence to practise medicine in Canada. While waiting, she landed a part-time research position, but work-permit issues over the summer had set her back. Her two-year-old son has also had difficulties adjusting to his new surroundings. She said they believe new behavioural issues are likely related to the overwhelming amount of changes. “It was a really challenging year.” In that time, Elvina said her husband has had to move elsewhere in Canada for his work, leaving her alone in Montreal with their son. She said that her husband, who was also a physician back home, is also looking to obtain his medical licence within the next year. While they work toward that goal, Elvina said she’s been impressed by the generosity of Montrealers. “It’s been really tough, but I’ve also felt that people were really welcoming, and really friendly and helpful,” she said. “Although it’s challenging, it’s been a really nice experience.” Elvina also stressed how instrumental the local daycare system has been to her family’s adjustment to life in Canada. She said that if it were not for accessible childcare associated with her workplace — something Elvina said you cannot find in the U.K. — she likely could not have gone back to work. To make the holidays a little easier for Elvina and her family, she will be receiving a $125 cheque from the Gazette’s annual Christmas fund. Every year, the fund provides thousands of Montrealers with a helping hand through the holiday season. She said she’s looking forward to spending Christmas with her parents, who will be travelling to Montreal for the first time since her move. Elvina said she’s particularly excited for her parents to spend quality time with their grandson.