Did you know what you wanted to do with your life at the age of six? For Donna May Kimmaliardjuk, the answer was clear—her calling was to save lives. iOttawa shares the story of a doctor from Canada’s capital who became the country’s first Inuk cardiac surgeon.
The Family of Dr. Donna
As a little girl, Donna could hardly imagine that her dream would not only come true but also become a historic milestone. Her mother, an Inuk woman, hails from Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut, a small community on the shores of Hudson Bay. Donna’s family is large and close-knit. After her birth, her parents moved south to Ottawa so their children could access quality education in Canada’s capital. Donna grew up in Ottawa and considers it her home. She earned her medical degree at the University of Calgary and completed her residency training in Ottawa.
Dr. K.
Looking at Donna, born in 1990, it’s hard to fathom the challenges she faces daily. Young and energetic, Dr. Donna works 12-hour shifts with a spirit as sharp and strong as a surgeon’s scalpel.
By the age of 28, Donna had earned the title “Dr. K.” In interviews, she often mentions how her father’s story about the death of her grandfather shaped her decision to pursue medicine. From elementary school to high school and university, Donna knew she didn’t want to lose her parents to illness and wanted to help ensure other children wouldn’t suffer the same pain.
Early Success
Donna’s fascination with the human heart began in medical school. Her colleagues view her accomplishments as remarkable for her age, but she credits much of her success to the guidance she received from mentors. Skilled staff and supervisors helped steer her toward becoming a fully trained cardiac surgeon.
Donna frequently emphasizes the importance of education, which she believes is particularly strong in Canada’s capital. For her, education is the key to opening many doors.
She is a passionate supporter of the charitable organization I Love First Peoples, which empowers Indigenous children and youth by emphasizing the importance of staying in school and achieving success through education.
My Passion Is Medicine
In interviews, Dr. Donna shares that she discovered her passion in medicine, specifically in the field of cardiac physiology. It’s not just a profession for her—it’s her life’s work. Donna May Kimmaliardjuk is a cardiac surgery resident at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
In 2018, she stepped out of the operating room and onto centre stage in Winnipeg. It was a unique experience as she received the Indspire award, recognized as an Inuk woman making history. Her speech was inspiring and motivational, emphasizing that anything is possible with determination. Becoming a cardiac surgeon had been her dream, even though she had no role models in the field. Her drive and energy were evident in her words.
Her mother shared a touching story: Donna was named after her great-grandmother, who, upon holding her as a newborn, predicted that Donna’s hands would save lives. That prophecy came true—her hands heal, and her words inspire future generations to act.
Dreams Come True
In 2020 and 2021, Dr. Donna worked in the United States but planned to return to Canada. By late 2021, she had joined Eastern Health Newfoundland and Labrador in St. John’s.
Dr. Donna is also a member of the Canadian Women’s Heart Health Alliance, which collaborates closely with the Canadian Medical Association and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons. Together, they form committees to improve healthcare outcomes for Indigenous populations, including initiatives related to residency programs.
Donna feels a deep connection to her family, her ancestors, and their values, which she strives to preserve and uphold.
Her story has been featured in numerous publications, as she serves as a source of inspiration for many. She has even been named “Hero of the Week” multiple times. What’s the secret to achieving success and recognition in your field? According to Donna, it’s simple—love what you do and give it your all.