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The Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN) has been recognized as a national leader in healthcare innovation, receiving the prestigious Groundbreaker Award from the CAN Health Network, a national collaboration between top Canadian health organizations (called Edges) and companies across the country. Funded by the Federal Government, its goal is to introduce innovative health care solutions and help Canadian businesses grow both nationally and internationally. The award was presented on October 29, 2025 , recognizing WRHN’s steadfast commitment to fostering homegrown solutions and transforming patient care in Canada.
The newly established Groundbreaker Award is a special recognition that honours organizations and individuals who challenge the status quo and create the essential conditions for Canadian health innovations to succeed. These leaders champion collaboration, rigorously test new ideas, and share insights across the Network, paving the way for a stronger, more innovative health system for all.
WRHN, which has continued to be an exemplary “Edge” (a healthcare operator in the Network) even amidst a significant and large-scale merger, was celebrated for its forward-thinking mindset.
On hand to accept the award from Olympian and physician Hayley Wickenheiser were Ron Gagnon, President and CEO, Danina Kapetanovic, Vice President, Innovation & Chief Health Innovation Officer, Carla Girolametto, Director Research Operations, and Danny Veniott, Innovation Lead & Program Manager from WRHN.
Special recognition was given to Ron Gagnon and his team with Carla Girolametto, whose unwavering leadership has demonstrated a deep commitment to research-driven collaboration and transformation. By combining a progressive mindset with rigorous evaluation and a willingness to champion Canadian innovators, WRHN has set a clear example of how health care organizations can effectively support homegrown solutions and improve patient care outcomes.
The Network also recognized Danny Veniott for the leadership and commitment he demonstrated during his time at WRHN @Queen’s Blvd, which set a strong example for how health care organizations can lead with both vision and impact.
Whether it’s launching new projects, helping scale solutions across multiple sites, or contributing valuable insights that guide future initiatives, the work of these leaders and their teams is helping pave the way for others across the CAN Health Network to follow. This Groundbreaker Award is a powerful affirmation of WRHN’s role in driving the future of Canadian healthcare, solidifying its place as a true champion for innovation.
Research & Innovation
The partnership aims to improve outcomes for patients undergoing hip replacements.
Research & Innovation
WRHN contributed to the landmark findings of the CO.21 (CHALLENGE) study, recently published in the New England Journal
