Governor General of Canada Awards Surgeons for Founding World Leading Institute
16 July 2025

Dr. Gordon Wilkes
Congratulations to Dr. John Wolfaardt (Division of Otolaryngology) and Dr. Gordon Wilkes (Division of Plastic Surgery) on being awarded the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal by the Governor General of Canada.
Their citation reads: "Dr. Gordon Wilkes and Dr. John Wolfaardt founded the Institute for Reconstructive Sciences in Medicine (iRSM), an internationally renowned clinic specializing in head and neck reconstruction. Through their pioneering techniques, the clinic has revolutionized the field and significantly improved the quality of life for patients across Canada and beyond."
The Institute for Reconstructive Surgery and Medicine (IRSM) at Misericordia Community Hospital in Edmonton focuses on providing comprehensive care for patients needing reconstructive surgery. This could include services in areas such as plastic and reconstructive surgery, wound care, trauma recovery, and other medical reconstructions
Reflecting on the honour, Dr. Wilkes remarked: "This award recognizes not only our contributions, but also the incredible dedication of so many individuals who, over the years, helped bring COMPRU—and later iRSM—to life in support of this unique patient population."
In addition, Dr. Wilkes was recently awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, presented by the Lieutenant Governor, in recognition of his continued service and excellence.
Division of Plastic Surgery Director, Dr. Paul Schembri, says “It is of no surprise to our division that Dr. Wilkes has been selected to receive these awards; our division has been the benefactor of his surgical education and expertise as well as his devotion to developing and fostering the growth of plastic surgery in Canada”