Dr Danielle Grenier
The Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) lost one of its dearest family members and Paediatrics & Child Health one of its most careful reviewers on September 24, 2014. Danielle Grenier’s name may not be familiar to all readers of Paediatrics & Child Health, but her work likely touched each one of you. She was an inspirational advocate for Canadian children and youth, a dedicated and compassionate community paediatrician known for her exemplary care.
Those active in the CPS knew Dr Danielle Grenier through her role as Director of Medical Affairs from 1994 until 2014. Her influence extended to the provincial, national and international levels. She was a driving force behind the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program, co-Editor-in-Chief of Well-Beings: A guide to health in child care, and co-chair of the Immunization Competencies Education Program. Dr Grenier was on the editorial board of Caring for Kids New to Canada, and was an active member of Québec’s Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse since 1999. She was also a champion for the Residents Section of the CPS, and was a prolific contributor to the Journal, with nearly 40 articles to her credit.
What many Paediatrics & Child Health readers may not know is that Dr Grenier reviewed each and every position statement and practice point published by the CPS. Her careful scrutiny picked up inconsistencies between text, tables and/or recommendations as well as sentence structures that may have been difficult to understand, especially if English was not one’s first language. But much more importantly, Dr Grenier always reviewed with the needs of children and youth and practitioners top of mind. Many times, she would draw attention to gaps in background or recommendations that may not be applicable in practice. She was exceptionally well read, so when she suggested that something should be changed before the CPS Board of Directors could finalize a position, she was always right on the mark. Thus, quietly but diligently in the background, Dr Grenier helped to ensure that what the CPS recommended was always as clear and practical as possible. She will be much missed but her legacy of practical excellence will live on.