Fahimy Saoud, MD, a physician in the Department of Family Medicine, has been awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her significant contributions to community engagement. This medal was created to mark the coronation of King Charles III on May 6, 2023, and is the first Canadian commemorative medal dedicated to such an occasion. Dr. Saoud received the award during the “Fondation des Médecins Canado-Haïtiens” and “Association des Médecins Haïtiens Étrangers” Annual Fundraising Gala, held on November 16 at the Centre de Congrès Palace in Laval, celebrating the work of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in Canada.
Dr. Saoud's remarkable journey began when she was forced to flee Haiti with her young family due to political persecution and life-threatening circumstances. She persevered through the challenging process of having her medical credentials recertified in Canada. After her recruitment to the 㽶Ƶ Health Centre, she worked on the Transitional and Long-Term Care units at the Montreal General and Royal Victoria Hospital sites before focusing on Emergency Medicine at the Lachine Hospital for over a decade. In April 2023, she was appointed Interim Medical Director of Long-Term Care Services at CHSLD Pavillon Camille Lefebvre. Alongside her hospital duties, Dr. Saoud also provided primary care in the Montreal North region.
Her leadership extended beyond clinical practice. She served as a member of the Black Candidate Pathway File Review Committee for two years and as a regional representative on the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) Council for two terms. She also provided clinical supervision in the International Medical Graduate Program at St. Mary’s Hospital.
Her achievements reflect a deep commitment to both her profession and her community, earning her the well-deserved recognition of the King Charles III Coronation Medal.