Dr. Cristian W.A. Kwasnek’s path into pharmacy began with a deeply personal experience that shaped his commitment to healthcare. After losing his father at a young age, Cristian knew he wanted a career that allowed him to support others through compassion, knowledge, and meaningful connection.

What inspired you to become a pharmacist and join the Lakeside Medicine team?

After completing my undergraduate degree in the sciences at UBC Okanagan in Kelowna, I initially wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to take after graduation.

However, I knew my career had to be within the healthcare field. Losing my father to cancer at a young age profoundly influenced me and ultimately fuelled my passion to pursue a career dedicated to helping others through healthcare.

When it came time to apply for further studies, I submitted applications to three programs: a Master of Science–to–PhD track in Cancer Research, Nursing School, and Pharmacy School. Interestingly, I was accepted into all three. I initially accepted the PhD offer but later found myself reconsidering nursing. It wasn’t until I overheard my parents telling family friends that they thought I would make a great pharmacist that I began to seriously consider pharmacy as my true path—and I think that conversation ultimately influenced my final decision.

During the final year of my Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree at the University of British Columbia, I was fortunate to complete hospital rotations in Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, and Nephrology. Within nephrology, my experience became even more specialized—I had the opportunity to work closely with patients living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those undergoing both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. I was deeply drawn to this area of practice—the complexity of care and the continuity of relationships with patients made the work both meaningful and fulfilling.

Managing these patients required a deep understanding of the intricate balance between pharmacotherapy, disease progression, and the complex co-morbidities that accompany kidney failure. I was drawn to the continuity of care, the collaborative nature of the work, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients who rely on long-term treatment and support.

That experience solidified my passion for nephrology and strengthened my commitment to providing the highest level of pharmaceutical care. It also reminded me that behind every prescription and treatment plan is a person whose quality of life can be profoundly impacted by the care we provide.

As I neared the completion of my pharmacy degree, I sought opportunities that would allow me to continue advancing my experience in nephrology. I contacted Graham, the pharmacy manager at Lakeside Pharmacy, to inquire about potential positions for new graduates and expressed a strong interest in pursuing a career that stayed closely connected to nephrology and renal patient care.

In addition to providing specialized care for patients with chronic kidney disease and those undergoing dialysis, Lakeside Pharmacy also offers a wide spectrum of advanced clinical services. The team is actively involved in pharmaceutical care for patients living with HIV, as well as those who have received organ transplants, and also provides compounding services.

The diversity and complexity of these clinical responsibilities strongly appeal to me, as they align with my patient-centred approach and provide an ideal environment for continuous learning and professional growth as a new graduate pharmacist.

I’m incredibly thankful to Lakeside Pharmacy and the wonderful team for allowing me to start my career with them. The support, patience, and guidance I’ve received—especially during my transition into the profession—have meant so much and have truly shaped my early career experience.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about their medications or pharmacy care?

Pharmacists are highly accessible healthcare professionals who play a vital role in supporting patients’ health.

Whether it’s counselling someone on a new prescription or guiding them on the safe use of over-the-counter medications and supplements, pharmacists are there to provide personalized support, answer questions, and help people feel confident in managing their health.

I find it deeply rewarding to be part of this process and to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.

When you’re not at the pharmacy, where might we find you around town?

On weekends, I enjoy spending time by the waterfront in Downtown Kelowna, taking in the sun and the scenery. I also enjoy hiking during the summer, which allows me to stay active and appreciate the outdoors.

What’s your favourite part about living or working in the Okanagan?

I feel incredibly fortunate to live and work in the Okanagan, where I can be close to family and friends while maintaining a healthy work–life balance.

Having this support network—and the ability to enjoy the beauty of my surroundings—makes my personal and professional life truly fulfilling. It’s also a plus that the summers are warm and beautiful, offering endless opportunities to explore everything the Okanagan has to offer.