DR. JAMES WADDELL

Dr. James Waddell has exemplified leadership in Canadian orthopaedic surgery through a career marked by dedication to advancing patient care, research, and education. A graduate of the University of Alberta, he served as Professor and Chairman at the University of Toronto and as Surgeon-in-Chief at St. Michael’s Hospital.

As Chairman of the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation (COF), Dr. Waddell championed the Bone and Joint Decade initiative and developed evidence-based care toolkits for hip and knee replacements, revolutionizing treatment standards across Canada. Through expert panels for Health Quality Ontario and his unwavering commitment to surgical education, he has mentored generations of orthopaedic specialists while establishing best practices that continue to improve patient outcomes nationwide. Additionally, along with fellow COF board member Sherwood Bassin, Jim co-founded the Bad to the Bone Golf Tournament, which became an important annual fundraiser for the foundation.

For his lifetime commitment to Canadian orthopaedic surgery, we are honoured to welcome Dr. James Waddell to the COF Hall of Fame in the category of Surgeon.

SHERWOOD BASSIN

Just some of the highlights of Sherwood “Sherry” Bassin’s distinguished career include his celebrated tenure as general manager and team builder in the Ontario Hockey League. He has been twice named OHL and CHL Executive of the Year, and he was the architect of multiple championship teams, including helping Team Canada earn World Junior Championship gold medals in 1982 and 1985.

Sherry’s relentless commitment is also evident off the ice. A retired professor in his home in Oshawa, Ontario, he has been recognized as Oshawa Man of the Year, inducted in the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame, and celebrated in the Oshawa Walk of Fame.

His leadership of the Bad to the Bones charity golf tournaments on behalf of the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation—which he co-founded with fellow COF board member Jim Waddell—and his service on the Foundation’s board have raised vital funds and elevated the organization’s mission.

The COF Hall of Fame is honoured to welcome Sherwood Bassin in the Builder Category, in recognition of his passionate commitment to orthopaedic health for all Canadians.