It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Dr. Lynn Straatman, on November 28, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Lynn was a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Division of Cardiology at the University of British Columbia, with joint appointments in Pediatrics (Adolescent Medicine) and Palliative Care. Her career spanned decades of exceptional service, scholarship, and leadership. She was the Medical Director of the Heart Function Clinic at Vancouver General Hospital, where she provided compassionate care and advanced innovative programs for patients with heart failure, cardio-oncology needs, and those requiring supportive cardiac care.
Beyond her clinical excellence, Lynn was a visionary leader in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). She chaired the VCH Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Steering Committee, spearheaded women physician focus groups, and led initiatives addressing barriers for BIPOC physicians and gender equity in leadership. Her work culminated in the UBC Clinical Faculty Award for Excellence in Advancing EDI (2021) and inspired systemic changes across Vancouver Coastal Health and the UBC Faculty of Medicine. Lynn’s humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to equity made her a role model and mentor to countless colleagues and trainees.
Her advocacy extended to health equity for patients, notably through the Medication Affordability Initiative, aimed at reducing financial barriers to essential medications. She also led the ON TRAC program, a groundbreaking provincial collaboration that supported youth with chronic conditions transitioning from pediatric to adult care—work that earned the HEABC Top Innovation Award in 2015.
Lynn’s legacy is one of compassion, excellence, and advocacy. Her ability to integrate cardiology and palliative care exemplified her holistic approach to medicine. She believed deeply in empowering others, often saying that leaders should be “architects of change.” Her colleagues describe her as respectful, approachable, and tirelessly passionate—a true champion for patients and for equity in healthcare.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Lynn’s family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Details regarding memorial services will be shared when available. In honoring Lynn, we celebrate a life dedicated to healing, inclusion, and hope.
