Our Team

  • A woman wearing black medical scrubs sitting on a modern black leather couch in a well-lit office or waiting room with a large window and wooden flooring.

    Dr. Valerie Hertzog, MD (Inaugural Physician)

    Dr. Valerie Hertzog is a family physician with a strong focus on preventive and lifestyle medicine, dedicated to helping patients live better, longer. With a passion for evidence-based care, she empowers individuals to take control of their long-term health through personalized strategies that support vitality, energy, and resilience at every age. She completed her medical training at the University of Toronto and the University of Ottawa and is a Certified Lifestyle Medicine Physician with the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine. She also has training in cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, and nutrition, which she integrates into her clinical approach to address the underlying drivers of chronic disease and age-related health challenges. Her interest in longevity and proactive health was shaped by her own medical journey during training, deepening her appreciation for sustainable, preventative care. As a wellness coach and mother of three, she brings both clinical expertise and real-life experience to her work. Dr. Hertzog is committed to helping patients optimize their healthspan so they can feel their best, stay active, and thrive well into the future.

  • A man with dark hair and a beard sitting on a tall wooden stool in an office, smiling, wearing a blue shirt, gray pants, black sneakers, and striped socks, with plants and decor in the background.

    Dr. Steve Radke, MD (Inaugural Physician)

    With over two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Steve Radke brings exceptional expertise in family medicine, preventive care, emergency medicine, and sports medicine. A graduate of the University of Ottawa’s Department of Family Medicine, Dr. Radke has been a dedicated and compassionate physician since beginning his practice, committed to delivering patient-centered care across multiple disciplines.  As Chief of Staff at Renfrew Victoria Hospital for more than a decade, he led physicians with insight and purpose, fostering collaboration and a culture of excellence and improvement. He holds a CCFP (SEM), representing advanced certification in Sport and Exercise Medicine, and is a Fellow of the College of Family Physicians of Canada (FCFP). Dr. Radke also serves as a clinical supervisor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Ottawa and is certified in Health Law. His professional interests include healthy longevity, physical performance optimization, and helping patients sustain vitality through every stage of life. His broad clinical background and focus on proactive health make him an invaluable addition to our team. We are incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Radke join us, as his deep knowledge, thoughtful approach, and leadership elevate the level of care we offer our patients.

  • A smiling Asian woman with long black hair wearing a black sleeveless top and gold earrings against a black background.

    Dr. Pamela Lai, MD

    Dr. Pamela Lai is a family physician, passionate about supporting patients to improve their healthspan in a proactive, holistic, and personalized way. Her interest in lifestyle medicine stemmed from training as a Registered Dietitian with a Bachelor of Science from McGill University.  She completed her medical degree at the University of Ottawa, followed by residency at Dalhousie University. Dr. Lai comes with an array of experience as a former emergency room physician and hospitalist in the Maritimes, Northwest Territories and rural Ontario. She is an esteemed speaker, lecturer at the University of Ottawa, and consultant in health tech. In recognition of her leadership, Dr. Lai was named one of Ottawa’s Forty Under 40 by the Ottawa Business Journal and the Ottawa Board of Trade. Dr. Lai believes it is never too late to optimize your health. She is able to find common ground and establish trust in order to collaborate with each patient on their health goals in an evidence-based way. Alongside work, Dr. Lai enjoys spending time with her family, staying active, traveling, and unwinding in local coffee shops. 

  • A woman with dark hair in a black blazer and black pants, sitting on a wooden stool in a modern room with dark textured wall, white orchid plant, and gray sofa.

    Kathleen Ladelpha, Client Care Liasion

    Kathleen brings a rich and diverse background in the health and wellness field, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with a deep passion for helping others. Kathleen built a long-standing career in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, working across a variety of therapeutic areas. Her dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families has always been a driving force in her professional journey.   As the former owner of a successful dance-fitness studio in Westboro, her client-centric and caring approach has been the cornerstone of her work, fostering a welcoming and empowering environment for all who walked through her doors. Outside of work, Kathleen is equally passionate about giving back to her community. Whether she's volunteering at the Food Bank, caring for the elderly, or simply enjoying quality time with her family, her compassionate nature shines through. A devoted pet lover and music enthusiast, Kathleen brings heart and energy to everything she does. When Kathleen saw our business sign while driving on the Queensway, she went home, Googled our name and read our website.  Then she reached out to us and asked, "How can I become part of this?" Kathleen is now our front face of the clinic and dedicated to going above and beyond to meet our patients’ needs.

  • A woman with blonde hair smiling, wearing a black blazer with gold buttons, standing indoors near a textured wall and a green plant.

    Tammy Thom, Client Care Concierge

    Tammy brings over 17 years of experience in medical administration to the LifespanMD team. Her extensive background includes a significant tenure at the Ottawa Hospital Family Medicine Clinic, where she specialized in managing and tracking client referrals. Tammy’s expertise lies in sourcing appropriate specialists, coordinating timely appointments, and ensuring that follow-up reports are received and communicated - key elements that contribute to a smooth and supportive client experience. With a deep understanding of the importance of clear communication and continuity of care, Tammy is passionate about helping clients navigate the healthcare system efficiently and with confidence. At LifespanMD, she is committed to providing personalized concierge support that aligns with each client’s health journey, ensuring a seamless and results-driven experience for every patient she serves.

  • Amy

    Amy Dalgleish, Client Care Liaison

    Originally from England and Australia, Amy brings a wealth of international experience in customer service and marketing to the LifespanMD team. Her background spans a diverse range of industries, including travel, lifestyle, and fashion, equipping her with a strong focus on organization, communication, and delivering exceptional client experiences. Now based in Canada with her three children, Amy has quickly embraced life in and around Ottawa. With a genuine passion for active living and wellness, she was drawn to LifespanMD’s client-centred approach and positive, supportive environment. She takes pride in helping ensure each client’s experience is seamless, welcoming, and aligned with the clinic’s high standards of care. Outside of the clinic, Amy enjoys making the most of the outdoors year-round -swimming and hiking in the summer, skating and skiing in the winter and stays active with yoga, pilates, and pickleball.

  • A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a maroon blouse with lace details on the shoulders, smiling and standing in front of a textured wall with a vertical light fixture and a potted plant.

    Lindsay Braidwood, Nurse (RPN)

    Originally from Montreal, Lindsay has been a nurse since 2012 and brings over a decade of experience in private medicine. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of caring for some of Canada’s most prominent individuals. In 2019, driven by growing concerns about the state of the healthcare system, she moved to the Ottawa area to expand her career and focus more intentionally on quality of care. Lindsay has a strong passion for preventative and longevity medicine - because prioritizing living well and feeling good is the most important investment we can make. Helping others improve their health, both physically and mentally, is what truly motivates and fulfills her.

  • A woman with short blonde hair wearing a blue blouse with sheer, patterned sleeves, sitting on a wooden stool in a modern room with dark and white walls, a vase with white orchids on a wooden shelf, and black chairs.

    Tawnya Shimizu, Nurse Practitioner (NP)

    Tawnya is a Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience in health care and a genuine passion for helping people feel heard, understood, and supported in their health journey. Her extensive experience in primary care has given her the opportunity to care for people of all ages and backgrounds, with particular interests in women’s health, prevention, gender-affirming care, and overall wellness. She holds a Nursing Diploma from Algonquin College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Ottawa, and a Master of Nursing and Nurse Practitioner Diploma from Athabasca University. She has also taught nursing at the University of Ottawa and has enjoyed mentoring students and future health-care professionals for many years. Tawnya believes that great health care starts with a trusting relationship. She takes a personalized, practical approach to care, working with each person to understand their goals and find meaningful, sustainable ways to support their health. Outside of the clinic, Tawnya is a proud mother of four and enjoys reading, curling, pickleball, and staying active. She values lifelong learning, connection, and finding ways to make health and wellness a positive part of everyday life.

  • Brenda Halabisky, Nurse Practitioner (NP), PhD

    Brenda Halabisky, Nurse Practitioner (NP), PhD

    Brenda is a Nurse Practitioner and educator with more than 30 years of nursing experience, including 25 years as a Nurse Practitioner in primary care. She earned her undergraduate nursing degree from the University of Manitoba and her graduate degree in Nurse Practitioner studies from the University of North Dakota. Brenda also holds a PhD in Nursing from the University of Ottawa. For the past 24 years, in addition to her clinical work in primary care, Brenda has been a dedicated educator in the University of Ottawa’s Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program. Health promotion and illness prevention are central to Brenda’s approach in her work as a clinician. She is committed to helping individuals optimize their health and well-being through evidence-informed practice while maintaining a compassionate, patient-centred approach to care. Outside of her professional life, Brenda enjoys gardening, cycling, experimenting with new recipes, and, most importantly, spending time with friends and family.

  • Julie Fortier, Fitness Specialist

    With over 15 years of experience as both an educator and coach, Julie is known for her expertise, empathy, and results-driven approach. She has coached a wide range of athletes - from teens and beginners to seniors and post-injury clients - across Ottawa and internationally. She also pioneered Resilience Reload, a CrossFit program for cancer patients at the Ottawa Community Cancer Hub, and continues to contribute to the field through ongoing education and publications. Julie’s mission: to help every client improve their health and fitness in safe, sustainable, and meaningful ways.

  • A young woman with shoulder-length dark hair leaning against a wall, smiling at the camera, with an urban background.

    Dr. Rebecca Chase, MD (Women's Health)

    Dr. Rebecca Chase is a family physician in Ottawa, Ontario, with a special focus on women's health, menopause care, and contraceptive counseling, including IUD insertions. She completed her medical degree at the University of Ottawa and her family medicine residency at Montfort Hospital. In addition to her clinical training, Dr. Chase holds a Master’s degree in Critical Disability Studies from York University, where her research focused on improving access to reproductive care for women with developmental disabilities. Prior to her current medical practice, Dr. Chase volunteered for over 12 years at Planned Parenthood, where she developed a strong foundation in advocacy, counseling, and patient-centered care. She is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make informed decisions about their health. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her young family, spinning, crossfit, traveling and making sourdough bread.

  • Connie Tuttle, CDE, RD (Registered Dietitian)

    Connie is a Registered Dietitian with more than 20 years of experience in outpatient care and almost a decade private practice. Throughout her career, she has provided individualized counselling on a wide range of topics, including chronic disease prevention and management, heart health, and digestive disorders. Her extensive experience has allowed her to develop expertise across many areas of nutrition. She is committed to tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client and takes pride in helping people overcome challenges through practical, personalized guidance. Outside of her professional work, she is a busy mother of two and enjoys spending time with her family. She loves staying active outdoors, whether swimming and hiking in the summer or snowboarding in the winter. A lifelong passion for travel also inspires her to explore new destinations whenever possible.

  • A young woman with long wavy brown hair and a bright smile, standing outdoors with trees and fallen leaves in the background.

    Emily McCorkell, MScFN, RD (Registered Dietitian)

    Emily is a Registered Dietitian with over a decade of experience specializing in oncology, cardiovascular health and the prevention and management of chronic disease. She holds a Master of Science in Food and Nutrition from Western University and is committed to providing evidence-based, individualized nutrition care. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, Emily meets clients where they are at, empowering them with realistic, sustainable strategies to support their long-term health. She is passionate about helping people build a positive relationship with food, grounded in their unique needs and goals. Outside of work, Emily is a proud mom to a busy toddler. She enjoys recharging through hot yoga and loves spending time in the kitchen exploring new recipes.

  • A woman with brown hair smiling and sitting on a beige armchair, holding a cup, wearing a tan cardigan and a white top, against a plain light-colored wall.

    Charlene Kennedy, RD (Registered Dietitian)

    Charlene has been a Registered Dietitian for over 20 years. She began her career at CHEO, where she developed a strong interest in supporting families and navigating the complexities of food, health, and daily life. For the past 15 years, Charlene has worked in private practice, supporting both adults and children, with a particular interest in cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health. Known for her down-to-earth and practical approach, Charlene takes the time to understand each client’s goals, motivations, and challenges. She collaborates closely with her clients to develop realistic, sustainable strategies to optimize nutrition and support long-term health and lifestyle goals. Charlene lives in Ottawa with her husband and three teenage children. As a busy parent herself, she understands firsthand the challenges of feeding a family and strives to simplify nutrition to make healthy choices more manageable. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, reading historical fiction, playing ringette, and skiing.

  • Dr. Samuel Hetz, MSc, MD, CCFP, GPDerm (Co-Founder & CEO)

    Dr. Samuel (Sam) Hetz is the Co-Founder and CEO of LifespanMD, a clinic dedicated to prevention, performance optimization, and longevity. He brings more than a decade of experience across family and hospital-based medicine, academic teaching, medical aesthetics and healthcare innovation. In addition to his primary care experience, Dr. Hetz is one of a select group of physicians in Ottawa awarded a GP Focused Practice Designation in Dermatology by the Ontario Medical Association and the Ministry of Health, reflecting his ability to integrate both generalist and specialist perspectives in patient care. He joined Concept Medical, and became the owner and medical director in 2016 before being acquired by the Dermapure Group. As CEO of LifespanMD, Dr. Hetz leads a team that delivers high-touch, data-driven care, empowering clients to extend their healthspan through advanced testing, personalized strategies, and preventative medicine. In recognition of his leadership, Dr. Hetz was named one of Ottawa’s Forty Under 40 by the Ottawa Business Journal and the Ottawa Board of Trade.