Posted: February 4, 2025
By: Dayna Park
Dr. Ron Stewart (惭顿鈥70), a pioneering figure in emergency medicine, passed away on October 21, 2024, at the age of 82. His memoir,聽Treat Them Where They Lie: Pioneering a Revolution in Modern Emergency Medicine, was published posthumously, offering an in-depth look at his decades-long career in health care.
Before his passing, Dr. Stewart worked with Jim Meek to co-author the book, telling his incredible life story. On December 3, 2024, the book was officially launched, just shy of two months after his death. At the NSCC Institute of Technology Campus, Jim Meek, and close friends, Dr. Orlando Hung, and Jean Laroche came together to share stories of Dr. Stewart and discuss his book.
Born in Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Dr. Stewart鈥檚 medical tenure began in the small community of Neil鈥檚 Harbour. He later became the first medical director of the Los Angeles paramedic program in 1972, a role that earned him the nickname "Doc Hollywood鈥 due to his advisory work on the television series "Emergency!"
His memoir chronicles these early experiences and his subsequent efforts in training the first generation of paramedics in Los Angeles. After 16 years in the U.S., Dr. Stewart returned to Nova Scotia, where, as Minister of Health, he established the province's modern Emergency Health Services system.
An enduring legacy
provides a candid and thoughtful narrative of Dr. Stewart's challenges and triumphs, reflecting his passion and commitment to advancing emergency medicine, here in Nova Scotia and around the world.
Dr. Stewart's legacy is also marked by his philanthropic efforts, including a $1.3-million pledge to to support emergency medicine research.
His memoir stands as a testament to a life dedicated to innovation and service in emergency medicine鈥攁 life that will not soon be forgotten.聽
