Our Team

 

Additional Surgeons

Dr. Vanessa Boudreau, MD, MSc, FRCSC

I received my medical degree from the University of Montreal and went on to complete a General Surgery Residency at the University of Sherbrooke. Subsequently, I completed advanced fellowship training in Bariatric and Minimally Invasive Surgery at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton, as well as a Master’s in Health Research and Methodology at McMaster University.

In addition to the rewarding work I do at The Sleeve Clinic, I am also a bariatric and metabolic surgeon at St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton, the leading Bariatric Centre of Excellence in Ontario, and the co-director of their Surgical Bariatric Clinic. I serve as an Assistant Professor at McMaster University and am an active member of numerous committees and provincial organizations, including the Ontario Bariatric Network (OBN) and the Canadian Association of Bariatric Physicians and Surgeons (CABPS). I am actively involved in ongoing research in the field of metabolic surgery, with focuses ranging from diabetes remission to the effects of surgical weight loss on fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

 

Administration

Kathleen

After many years working in busy medical practices I met Dr. Gmora and I knew I needed to be a part of his team. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his patients is infectious, and The Sleeve Clinic team really cares and it shows! From the first moment we speak with a patient, we create a positive, welcoming and supportive environment.

When I’m not at the clinic, I have a fluffy corgi named Nash who takes up a lot of my spare time, and I love to try out new restaurants and cuisines all over town.

Mandy

I have over 30 years experience in Medical Administration and have been working with Dr. Gmora in his bariatric programs for over 11 years, in both the public system and his private practice. The Sleeve Clinic is unique in the high level of care and consideration we give to each and every patient we see, and I love being a part of that.

When I’m not at work—or I’m working from home—you’ll never see me without Ella, the 12 year old Black Lab my husband and I adopted. She is my shadow!

Aashna

With a background in healthcare—I completed Medical School overseas and am currently preparing to write my licensing exams—I knew I wanted to join an incredible team of experts. As soon as I met with Dr. Gmora, I knew The Sleeve Clinic was the place for me, and it has since become an amazing and unforgettable part of my life.

Our team is motivated to give 100% every day, supporting and cheering on our patients. We work hard to ensure this process is not only smooth, but warm and welcoming. It’s natural for patients to have a lot of questions, and we’re always available to help eliminate any doubts they may have.
When I’m not at work or buried in my textbooks, I love outdoor workouts of all kinds and creative pursuits like painting.

Harjot

With years of experience working as a medical administrator, I joined The Sleeve Clinic because of the incredible team’s unmatched energy and Dr. Gmora’s passion and enthusiasm for helping patients. Our team provides exceptional care, and that’s what sets us apart! If you’re considering sleeve surgery, know that you’re in the best hands at The Sleeve Clinic. Our amazing team will be with you every step of the way.

In my free time, I’m all about travel, hiking, and sports. I try to explore at least three new places each year. At home, my lively half-Maltese, half-Yorkie, Cypher, keeps life interesting. Plus, there’s a baby girl on the way, adding even more excitement to my life.

Can’t wait to be part of your journey at The Sleeve Clinic!

Natasha

With a diploma in Medical Administration and a background working in hospitals and family clinics, I found my passion in being part of patients’ life-changing experiences. What brought me to The Sleeve Clinic is the chance to be a part of a patient’s life changing experience, and being that comforting voice and a source of positivity, cheering on individuals as they achieve their goals.

The Sleeve Clinic stands out thanks to Dr. Gmora’s personal connection—he’s undergone the surgery himself—and our compassionate team committed to our patients’ success. My advice to those considering sleeve surgery is simple: prioritize your own desires, and don’t let anyone stand in the way.

Outside of work, you’ll find me at the gym, engrossed in mystery novels, and sharing my space with a delightful Yorkie named Reese and my almost-as-tall-as-me 7-year-old, Kayden.

I’m here to be a positive part of your journey at The Sleeve Clinic!

Patient Care

Shannen

I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ryerson University, where I graduated with distinctions, and almost a decade’s worth of experience managing a busy family medicine practice with more than 35 doctors and nurses and a roster of over 30,000 patients. I pride myself in ensuring that each and every one of my patients receives exceptional, personal, patient-centred care.

What originally drew me to The Sleeve Clinic was Dr. Gmora’s energy and enthusiasm. He really cares about his patients, and when I met him I knew I wanted to be a part of his team; now that I’m here I wouldn’t change a thing. I truly believe that The Sleeve Clinic provides an unparalleled surgical experience. We are our patients’ biggest cheerleaders and supporters throughout this adventure!

When I’m not at the clinic, you can find me cozy at home with a good movie, or adventuring with my two dogs, Chico and Zeus.

Erin

I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Western Ontario and have been practising as a registered nurse for a decade. I have worked as a nurse in the hospital and community. I love being a nurse and find joy in teaching patients about their health and helping them reach their best potential.

I was drawn to The Sleeve Clinic because of the pride which this team takes in their work, and professionalism of the staff at the clinic. It was clear to me that Dr. Gmora is extremely passionate about his work, his patients, and their success. From the moment I met this team, I knew this was where I wanted to be.

I look forward to meeting all of my patients and supporting them through their weight loss journey!

In my spare time I enjoy travelling, bike riding, and walking my little dachshund.

Kailyn

I have a diploma in Registered Practical Nursing from George Brown College, where I graduated with honors. My background spans 10 years in Surgical Nursing, coupled with 3 years in the Emergency Department.

Not always will you find that your values and goals intersect with a group of individuals from different walks of life. I have been fortunate enough to find this at The Sleeve Clinic. Dr. Gmora firmly believes in his work and his team to assist patients in achieving their goals – all while having fun along the way! If you’re considering sleeve surgery, my advice is to take the leap—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Outside the clinic, I navigate winter slopes on a snowboard, play softball or soccer in the warmer months, and indulge in Netflix binges. At home, my lively English Bulldog, Choji, keeps me company alongside my two wonderful kids. Looking forward to joining you on your journey at The Sleeve Clinic!

Sulana

I have been practicing as a Registered Dietitian across a variety of settings since completing my Bachelor of Applied Science from Ryerson Polytechnic University and my Master’s of Health Science from The University of Toronto over 20 years ago. My passion lies in motivating and inspiring people to achieve their health and nutrition goals and encouraging my patients to put themselves first.

I have always been interested in helping people with their weight challenges and believe that every person can achieve long-lasting change when pointed in the right direction and supported every step of the way. At The Sleeve Clinic, I have the opportunity to work alongside a world class clinical team, use my nutrition knowledge, and gain skills in an exciting area of nutrition. Because we care so much about our patients’ success, our team is consistently evolving to ensure The Sleeve Clinic experience is the best they can get.

When I’m not at work I love to hike and spend time with my two kids and the best Cockapoo in the whole world, Maple!

Julie

I have a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, and my professional background is quite extensive and spans a variety of health care settings and age group, including everything from critical care to paediatric oncology. I’ve also been lucky enough to work on both sides of the Atlantic, I began my career in the UK! I have spent my career helping treat disease with nutrition and my work at The Sleeve Clinic is a natural extension of that – it is so rewarding to help people make the positive changes needed to treat and prevent chronic disease.

The Sleeve Clinic is unparalleled in the level of commitment from the staff to their patients, and in the long term follow up care and this extra support is really what drew me the The Sleeve Clinic in the first place! The people who come through our doors have been struggling with their weight for many years and these issues do not disappear overnight, which is why it is so imperative to our patients success that they be supported well beyond their surgery.

In my personal time, I love to bake (to varying degrees of success according to my children), get some peace and quiet by taking long runs, and spend time with my husband, kids and our two cats!

Jennie

I come to The Sleeve Clinic with an extensive educational background in nutrition and health sciences; a Human Kinetics degree from The University of Guelph, a degree in Nutrition and Food from Ryerson University, and a Master’s of Public Health in Nutrition and Dietetics from The University of Toronto

The Sleeve Clinic has given me the opportunity to combine my clinical nutrition knowledge with my love of coaching and teaching. Because we follow our patients for 5 years following their surgery, we really get to understand them and their goals in order to individualize our approach. I love that I get to work with these amazing people on a long-term basis and be part of such a transformational time in their lives.

Our team knows that aftercare post-surgery is not “one size fits all” and we take pride in being highly adaptive, innovative, and patient-centred. Seeing the physical transformations our patients go through is such a joy, but the most amazing changes to witness are the transformations in patients’ relationships with food and the huge improvements in their physical and mental health that come along with that.

Outside of work, I’m an avid runner (I’ve run 4 marathons!), and I love to watch live comedy shows and even perform stand up comedy!

Leanne

I completed both my undergraduate and master’s degrees in human nutrition at The University of Guelph. After completing my education, I started working with a medical clinic offering dietary counselling to patients. I have also worked with Ontario Tech University as a professor teaching nursing students about nutrition in their practice.

The Sleeve Clinic is something I never knew I was searching for; a practice where the team is so supportive of all patients and employees, and where everyone really cares about doing good work. Our team is very dedicated to our patients and we all love what we do, which makes it so easy to be excited to come to work. I really believe that the work we’re doing is making a difference in the lives of our patients.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading and being in nature with my Shih-Tzu, Maggie. I also love getting together with friends and family to watch great movies. Fun fact: I have actually done some work in the film industry and have gotten to work with some actors quite closely!

Adrienne

With my background as a Naturopathic Doctor, I play a pivotal role in advising our team on vitamins and supplements. With a wealth of expertise in this area, I ensure that our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to offer comprehensive care to our patients. My dedication lies in ensuring that every individual receives well-rounded support, fostering their journey towards optimal health and wellness.

What sets apart our team from others is we’re always there to lift you up and keep you motivated on your journey. Our goal is to make sure every visit feels like a warm welcome, with no hiccups along the way. We’re here to answer any questions you’ve got and clear up any doubts you might have. Just think of us as your friendly guides, here to walk beside you every step of the way.