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SickKids
A close-up of a set of medals displayed in a picture frame.

Awards & Memorabilia

Banting's application to SickKids

This is an image of Dr. Frederick Banting's 1919 job application to work as a surgical resident (1919–1920) at SickKids after he returned from the war. In 1923 Dr. Banting returned to SickKids as an “Active Staff – Department of Medicine”, and continued to be listed as staff into WWII, at which point he is also listed as “on active service,” and continues to be on our staff lists until his death in 1941. One of the greatest medical breakthroughs in history, insulin was discovered by Dr. Banting alongside Drs. Charles H. Best and J.J.R. Macleod in 1921 at the University of Toronto. This document represents a crucial moment in Banting's journey and highlights the significant contributions he would later make in the field of medicine, ultimately revolutionizing the treatment of diabetes. Sir Frederick Banting won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine “for the discovery of insulin” in 1923. 

Canada Foundation for Innovation award letter

Received on February 5, 2010, this letter confirms that the Canada Foundation for Innovation approved a $91,119,176 award to SickKids for the building of the new research tower, which was named the Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning in 2012 with the historic $40 million gift from Mr. Peter Gilgan, Founder and CEO of Mattamy Homes. The award from the Canada Foundation for Innovation is the largest grant to date received at SickKids. The awards letter is signed by Dr. Janet Rossant, Chief of Research (2005–2015), Dr. Michael Salter, Chief of Research (2015–2020), and Dr. Stephen Scherer, Chief of Research (appointed 2021). These three, along with Drs. Peter Dirks, Fred Keeley and David Malkin, along with Gwen Burrows, were involved in aspects of writing the successful grant as well as participating in the site visit. (Image to follow)

Copper histidine molecule

Dr. Bibudhendra (Amu) Sarkar was the first basic scientist hired by the SickKids Research Institute in 1964 Dr. Sarkar's research focused on the significance of metals in biological systems. To celebrate his outstanding contribution to biochemistry, the three-dimensional model of the copper histidine molecule was presented to Dr. Sarkar in February 2020 to commemorate his 55 years of service at SickKids 

Dr. Robert Salter awards

This impressive frame proudly showcases multiple awards received by Dr. Robert (Bob) Salter, a distinguished surgeon-in-chief at SickKids and a pioneer in the field of paediatric orthopaedic surgery. Dr. Salter meticulously assembled this frame himself, reflecting his immense pride in these accolades. Among the notable awards adorning the frame are the Canadian Centennial Medal, the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal (1977), the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal, the Queen's Canada Gold Jubilee, the Order of Ontario (1988), the Officer of the Order of Canada medal (1977), the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, and the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem medal. Each of these honours serves as a testament to Dr. Salter's unwavering commitment to advancing the field of paediatric orthopaedic surgery. Dr. Salter also designed the medical logo of SickKids, which is also shown on the accompanying tie he also designed, which lies at the base. 

Gairdner Award plaque

Established in 1957, the Gairdner Foundation recognizes international excellence in fundamental research impacting human health. The Canada Gairdner awards celebrate the world’s most creative and accomplished biomedical scientists and global health researchers who are advancing humanity and the world. 

Killam Award plaque

Established in 1967, Dorothy J. Killam envisioned building Canada’s future by encouraging advanced study to increase scientific attainments and expand the work of Canadian universities. The Killam Prize celebrates inspiring Canadian scholars who have demonstrated sustained excellence, making a significant impact in health sciences. 

Royal Society of Canada Award plaque

The Academy of Science in the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) was established in 1882 as the senior Canadian collegium of distinguished scholars. Elected Fellows and Medalists are recognized for their exceptional and original publications, intellectual achievements, and scientific research, as well as in Canadian public life. 

Black and white photo of Dr. Bibudhendra (Amu) Sarkar and Dr. Andrew Sass-Kortsak speaking with three children with Wilson disease

Explore other displays

Discover the history of SickKids Research Institute through a selection of display items that are available for in person viewing at the PGCRL.

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