I’ve always been proud to call the Prairies home.
My parents came from humble beginnings, but they were hardworking and proud of what they did. My mom was a care aide, and my dad, a boiler engineer. Their dedication and example stayed with me as I pursued my education and career.
Why Lung Health Research Matters
As a clinician and researcher, I love trying to answer questions that matter to my patients and to clinicians. I also love looking at data and trying to understand the story behind it. This aspect of research is what keeps me intellectually stimulated, while also feeling connected to the people who are impacted by the research and work I do.
There is so much work left to be done.
Much remains unknown, particularly in lung health research and the needs of people living with lung disease are so great. As I have been more involved in lung research, it has become very clear that it is broadly underfunded, particularly when you look at the burden that lung disease places on people and our health system.
It’s important to me to do research in an area that needs passionate, committed people to advance our understanding of lung health and disease. I also want to raise awareness of just how important this work is, not only for people living with lung conditions, but also for improving the health system that is meant to serve them.
Lung health research that is shaped by the people who are impacted by the research ensures that it remains relevant and meaningful for them. Saskatchewan has many amazing people and facilities, and it is important to highlight the expertise and know-how we have right here in our province. We also know that conducting research locally helps grow our economy and is, in fact, an excellent economic investment for our province.
When we support local research, the benefits stay right here.
Connection to Lung Saskatchewan
This is one of the most satisfying partnerships I have had professionally. Lung Saskatchewan is an organization that I wholeheartedly support and believe in. Its impact at the national level is quite remarkable. The quality of its education, commitment to advocacy, and support for the community of people living with lung conditions is second to none, in my humble opinion.
A proud moment for me in my relationship with Lung Saskatchewan has been the co-founding of Youth4Change and the advocacy work it has achieved on vaping and tobacco legislation, helping protect youth across our province.
Your support makes this work possible.
When you give to Lung Saskatchewan, you help ensure that critical research continues, that patients’ voices are heard, and that meaningful change happens right here where it’s needed most.
Thank you for supporting lung health in Saskatchewan.
Erika Penz
About Erika Penz
Dr. Penz is a general respirologist and Associate Professor at the University of Saskatchewan, where she leads the Division of Respirology and Sleep Medicine. Her career blends clinical practice, research, and advocacy, with a focus on health economics and policy in lung disease. Her work has influenced clinical practice and lung health policy in Saskatchewan and across Canada.