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Catie Jarvis: Driving Change in Heart Health Research

Catie Jarvis, a proud Montrealer and soon-to-be graduate, is capping off her academic journey at the ß÷ßäÉçÇø with a project that could directly impact patient care across Canada.

Her research, The Post-TAVI Driving Study (TAVI-D), explored the recovery process for patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve insertion (TAVI), a minimally invasive heart procedure, and how current driving restrictions affect their quality of life. Catie surveyed physicians across Canada, analyzed patient data at the Mazankowski Heart Institute, and gathered first-hand perspectives from patients themselves. Her goal? To determine whether the standard one-month driving restriction post-procedure could safely be shortened. Some of her findings, already , along with an upcoming patient-centred study, will help to inform national guidelines and could ease the road to recovery for future patients.

While the research was grounded in data, what stood out most to Catie was the human side of science. “I learned the value of meaningful interactions with both patients and their families,” she says. “Conducting research with their best interests in mind is at the heart of translational medicine.”

After convocation, Catie is heading to the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary to begin the next chapter of her health-care journey. When she’s not deep in data or textbooks, you’ll likely find her recharging in the Rockies. “I live for the mountains,” she says. “Time outdoors near water and peaks is the most energizing and healing privilege of living in ß÷ßäÉçÇø.”

Catie’s advice for future grad students? “Make time to discover yourself and explore new and old interests. That’s the best way to work hard and stay focused.”

With her curiosity, compassion, and commitment to improving patient care, Catie is already helping shape the future of medicine...and she’s just getting started.