Celebrate Veterans Week with McMaster Innovation Park and the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans (CPCoE). This special event offers an opportunity to learn more about the CPCoE's groundbreaking research and programs supporting Canadian Armed Forces Veterans living with chronic pain, and to discover the innovative work of this McMaster Innovation Park tenant.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Location: The Atrium lobby, 175 Longwood Rd. S., McMaster Innovation Park
What to Expect:
A Q&A with three Veterans, moderated by Dr. Ramesh Zacharias, President, CEO, and Medical Director of Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence
A slide show featuring John Brown, Conrad Heegsma, and Cam Kowalski, the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence’s initiatives, and a high-level overview of McMaster Innovation Park.
Informational materials from Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence showcasing their research and programs
Light refreshments provided
Explore local art – enjoy the Art in the Workplace exhibit featuring pieces by local artists while you’re here.
About the Speakers:
John Brown – John Brown is a retired police officer with 25 years of service, including 20 years with military police and five years with CN rail police. He is a father of 4 ( 2 girls and 2 boys). John enjoys multiple hobbies include mountain biking, fat biking, road cycling, playing guitar, and travelling.
Conrad Heegsma – After serving nearly 29 years in the Canadian Forces in various instructional and leadership roles across Canada and abroad, Conrad Heegsma was medically released in 2014 due to chronic pain stemming from years of service and injury. Following his release, he focused on his health and education, completing multiple college programs and attending the Intensive Pain Management Program at the DeGroote Pain Clinic, which he credits for his recovery and transformation.
Cam Kowalski – Cam Kowalski served over 30 years with the RCMP, leading major national security operations including the 2010 Olympics and G8/G20 Summits, earning multiple commendations for his leadership. Now serving as Director of Operations at the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans, Cam brings his expertise in leadership and mental health advocacy to support Veterans and ongoing research initiatives.
Moderator: Dr. Ramesh Zacharias, President, CEO, and Medical Director of the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence. Dr. Zacharias leads the Centre’s research and programs supporting Canadian Armed Forces Veterans living with chronic pain.
About the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans:
Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence was established in 2020 to advance research and improve care for Veterans living with chronic pain. Veterans are twice as likely to experience chronic pain compared to the general Canadian population, with female Veterans facing even higher rates. The CPCoE prioritizes Veteran engagement, ensuring research and programs are informed by the lived experiences of Veterans and their families. Their mission is to raise awareness, share knowledge, and influence programs and policies to make a tangible impact on Veteran well-being.
About McMaster Innovation Park:
McMaster Innovation Park, McMaster University’s research and innovation park, is a hub for innovation, collaboration, and research. Home to over 75 innovative tenants across approximately 1 million square feet on 54 acres and 6 buildings, the Park connects academia, industry, and startups to drive impactful solutions. This event highlights the work of tenants like the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence, contributing to meaningful change for the community and beyond.
Parking:
Plenty of parking is available at the Atrium. Visitors can follow the posted instructions for paying for parking on-site.
This is a free drop-in event. Please RSVP by November 4, 2025, to help us plan for refreshments and ensure we can welcome everyone comfortably.
Please note that McMaster Innovation Park may take photos and videos during this event for use on our website, social media, and promotional materials. These images and recordings will be used for informational and promotional purposes only.
