Patients’ Choice Award 2026 | Lupus Rheumatologist Award in Canada
Honouring Excellence in Lupus Care
The Patients’ Choice Award for Canadian Rheumatologist of the Year recognizes outstanding lupus care across Canada and gives patients the opportunity to honour a specialist who has made a meaningful impact on their journey.
Celebrate Compassionate Care
Make Your Voice Heard
This patient-driven award is your opportunity to recognize a Rheumatologist who has gone above and beyond in your lupus journey.
Behind every nomination is a story of care, trust, and impact.
About the Patients’ Choice Award
Many people living with lupus rely on the expertise and compassion of their Rheumatologists. These healthcare professionals play a vital role in helping patients navigate a complex and often unpredictable disease.
The Patients’ Choice Award was created to honour a Canadian Rheumatologist who has made a meaningful and lasting impact on individuals living with lupus.
Award Process Overview
Learn how you can participate in recognizing exceptional Rheumatologists through our award process.
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Phase 1:
Nominations
(Now Open!)
From April 1 to May 1, 2026 at 12:00 pm EST patients can nominate a Rheumatologist who has positively impacted their care. Share your story to highlight their dedication and expertise.
2
Phase 2:
Community Voting
From May 2 to May 15, 2026 at 12:00 pm EST, the lupus community is invited to vote for the nominated Rheumatologist they believe deserves the Patients’ Choice Award.
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Phase 3:
Announcement
The winner will be announced the week of May 18th, celebrating their invaluable contributions to lupus care in Canada.
Vote to Recognize Outstanding Care
We are proud to recognize last year’s recipient: Dr. Deborah Levy
Dr. Levy is a Staff Rheumatologist and Associate Professor of Paediatrics at the University of Toronto, as well as a Team Investigator at the SickKids Research Institute and Clinic Director of the Paediatric Lupus Clinic at SickKids. Her research focuses on long-term outcomes of childhood-onset lupus and includes national collaborations in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE), and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
She has received numerous accolades for her clinical and research excellence, including the Department of Paediatrics Clinical Excellence Award and the 2018 Ontario Rheumatologist of the Year. Dr. Levy is also a passionate advocate for underserved patient communities, currently serving as Vice-President – Paediatric of the Ontario Rheumatology Association and Past-Chair of the Paediatric Committee of the Canadian Rheumatology Association.
“Truly, this represents the hard work and dedication of the entire SickKids Lupus Clinic and not just me — there is no way I could do this on my own!”
Honouring All Nominees & Looking Ahead
Each nomination is a powerful reflection of the impact compassionate care has on the lives of those living with lupus.
We are deeply grateful to our community for sharing their stories and helping shine a spotlight on the heroes of lupus care. We look forward to hearing from our community — your voice is what makes this award possible.
Support Beyond the Award
Lupus care extends beyond recognition. Access resources to help you navigate your health and daily life: