Ward grew up in Southern Saskatchewan and completed his degree in pharmacy at the University of Saskatchewan in 2009. Not seeing a future for himself in the world of corporate pharmacy he set out west as a “locum” pharmacist in 2010. Settling in Nelson, BC he quickly established himself as a highly sought-after relief pharmacist throughout the Kootenays and the Okanagan. It was during this period that he experienced independent and rural pharmacy practice. This was a window that enabled Ward to envision the style of Pharmacy practice that would fulfill him in both his personal and professional needs. A style of practice predicated solely on his desire to help and to connect with people. He purchased the pharmacy in Kaslo in 2012 where he established a reputation as a caring and community-minded pharmacist consistently delivering the highest level of pharmaceutical care. Motivated to expand his level of care to other communities he soon after expanded with locations in the communities of New Denver and Castlegar, BC. He considers himself fortunate to have escaped the dominance of corporate pharmacy. A sentiment he shares with his staff and community by keeping it local.

Ward is an avid aviation enthusiast who can be seen regularly flying his RLU-1 Breezy. A passion he shares by giving flights to many of his pharmacy patients reflecting his commitment to connection and community. Additionally, he is engaged in building an airplane, a Vans Aircraft RV-10. A project he hopes to have in the air in 2025. Since moving to the Kootenays he has embraced much of the mountain culture by adopting skiing, mountain biking, hiking, gardening and lake life.

Linda has been with the company since 2012, providing accounting and administrative services. In 2014/2015 she assisted Ward with the development of the New Denver and Castlegar locations. Linda continues to serve staff and clients of the company, providing the administrative continuity needed to support its success.

Executive Assistant to T.H.E. Pharmacy in the Kootenays, blends her experience in pharmacy, medical, and administrative fields. With a robust background in these areas, she ensures efficient operations while providing invaluable support to T.H.E. Pharmacy team.

Lexi is a Toronto native who made her way to the Kootenays in 2020, landing in Kaslo shortly thereafter. She quickly established herself by making use of her background in hospitality and customer service in the local tourism economy. She joined T.H.E. Pharmacy in November 2023 as the Operations Assistant, bringing her bachelor degree in Commerce and high degree of adaptability to the organization, filling roles from administration to marketing. Recently, she completed training as a substitute pharmacy assistant to round out her service to the organization and community.

Meet Mike Rusak, a dedicated pharmacist based in New Denver. With a passion for healthcare, Mike has been a trusted figure in the local community, ensuring the well-being of those he serves. Beyond the pharmacy, he extends his commitment to saving lives by actively participating in search and rescue missions, showcasing his versatility and selflessness in the pursuit of community safety. Mike embodies the spirit of care both in and out of the pharmacy, making a positive impact on the lives of those in the community.

Margaret has lived in the West Kootenays for over fifty years. She has left to travel and get her MA but found herself coming back after each adventure. For Margaret, the Kootenays are about family, community and rural life. T.H.E. Pharmacy’s emphasis on community and rural healthcare has captured Margaret’s interest and, along with Ward’s priority on empathy, ensures the job is both challenging and rewarding.

Darcie was born and raised in the community of Kaslo. After finishing High school, she used university as an excuse to get out of town and see the broader world. Her studies took her to Victoria, Vancouver, Prince George and Montreal. Although her field of study was unrelated to pharmacy, she soon grew weary of the “big city” fast pace, desired home and returned to live and work in her village. Darcie came to train as our Pharmacy Assistant in December of 2012. Recently, after 10 years of pharmacy service to the community, Ward gifted her with an award for her excellent service, celebrating her achievement and dedication to the organization and our clients. Feeling blessed and grateful, she looks forward to what’s in store for the next 10 years.

COMING SOON

Kailen is a familiar face to our Kaslo clientele, being born and raised in the Village. Most Kaslovian’s know him as the friend to call as he is always cheerfully happy to lend a helping hand. He is active in the community volunteering as a Fire Fighter and in 2023 was named as Kaslo Fire Department’s JOHS representative in the Regional District. He came to T.H.E. Pharmacy group to work as a Cashier, and has since grown into multiple roles within our organization—he is our Front Store Product Manager, our “IT Guy”, and assists Front Store Management in serving staff and clients daily. He is our “really great guy” here at our Kaslo location!

Originally from Columbia, South America, Veronika immigrated to Canada at a young age, with her family settling in Toronto, Ontario. Pursuing a lifestyle of land and animal stewardship, Veronika made her way to the Kootenay’s over 20 years ago. She is active in our local farming, gardening and environmental communities. Veronika has worked with Kaslo Community Services for many years providing Home Health Care to those in Kaslo who have need of her care. Veronika came to work part time at our Pharmacy in 2023— providing joyful and excellent customer service. Her bright smile and generous nature have become integral to the success of our Front Store’s daily operations.