Our First Summer Student Researcher!

Wesley Mah, Summer Student Research Grant Recipient

When the Canadian Food Allergy Immunotherapy (FAIT) Foundation launched its first-ever summer student research grant, it couldn’t have found a better match than Wesley Mah.

Wesley recently wrapped up his second year at the University of British Columbia, where he’s pursuing an Integrated Science Major with a keen interest in immunology and environmental science—two fields especially relevant to those living with allergies. He’s aiming for a future career in either family medicine or as an allergist.

Originally from 100 Mile House and raised in Kamloops, Wesley knows the challenges of food allergies firsthand. He has a peanut allergy, and both of his sisters also have nut allergies. One of them is currently participating in the FAIT program, and Wesley hopes to join as a participant himself one day. “It’s amazing to know my sister’s risk of serious reactions is now much lower,” he says.

This summer, Wesley is working under the supervision of Dr. Raymond Mak and Dr. Lianne Soller. Their research focuses on how to improve the transition for youth moving from the immunotherapy program at BC Children’s Hospital to adult care at Vancouver General Hospital. Wesley will be assisting with chart reviews to identify reasons patients drop out and where gaps in care might exist—important work that could help improve outcomes for future patients.

While this is Wesley’s first formal research role with FAIT, he’s already pitched in—some of you may have met him at our 2024 Festivus celebration, where he helped greet and check in guests. With a bit of luck, you might also catch him performing at this year’s event (November 20 at Vancouver’s Arbutus Club)—Wesley is an accomplished violinist who enjoys sharing his music when he’s not studying or doing research.

More than three million Canadians live with food allergies, and there is currently no cure. Treatments that do exist can be costly and out of reach for many. The Canadian FAIT Foundation is committed to advancing research and expanding access to safe, effective, and affordable therapies. With your support, we can continue to train healthcare providers, expand treatment beyond B.C., and offer care to people of all ages.

By helping FAIT, you’re helping reduce emergency room visits, lower the risk of life-threatening reactions, and dramatically improve quality of life for allergy sufferers and their families. To support this important work, please visit: https://www.canadianfaitfoundation.org/

Interested in becoming a corporate partner? Contact us at info@canadianfaitfoundation.org to learn more about how your organization can make a difference.

Welcome aboard, Wesley—we’re so glad to have you on the team!