Now enrolling for an asthma research study - Kelowna Health & Memory Centre
Kelowna Memory Clinic
250-470-0787
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Contact Us
Kelowna Memory Clinic
250-470-0787
✕
Contact Us

Now enrolling for an asthma research study

Kelowna Memory Clinical Trials Contact

Want To Participate?

If you meet all the qualifications and want to participate, fill out the form or call
250-470-0787. 

By completing this form, you are agreeing to be contacted by phone, text or e-mail.

Kelowna Clinical Trials

Study Details

We are looking for adult participants with uncontrolled moderate to severe asthma with a diagnosis of asthma, aged 19-75.

The trial is recruiting participants who:

  • Have uncontrolled moderate to severe asthma, and
  • Are currently using a medium- or high-dose combination steroid/bronchodilator inhaler but continue to experience symptoms or exacerbations.

Individuals currently taking GLP-1–based medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound are not eligible for participation.

Participation is voluntary and confidential. You will be compensated for your time and travel.

How do I get started?
Simply contact our team via our website, by e-mail or by calling to learn more.
Where is the clinic located?
We are conveniently located in Pandosy Village, making it easy for patients from Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country, Vernon, and surrounding areas to access care.
Do I have to pay to participate in a clinical trial?
No. Study-related visits, medications, and testing are provided at no cost. Reimbursement may be available for your time and travel.

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please call to our friendly team.
Call Us

Interested in participating in one of our current clinical trials or would like more information?

Contact Us
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Dr. Eugene Okorie

MD, FRCPC

Medical Director/ Founder

Dr. Okorie serves as a Principal Investigator and Psychiatrist at the Kelowna Health & Memory Centre. With decades of experience in general and geriatric psychiatry, he has seen firsthand the limitations of current mental health treatments.

Dr. Okorie has been an Investigator in clinical research since 2016, committed to advancing investigational therapies that may offer more effective treatment options for his patients and the wider community. He is an expert in both mental and cognitive health providing assessments and care for patients with depression, anxiety, psychosis, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and more.

He has played a significant role in helping to bring new Alzheimer's treatments to Canada and has served as an Investigator in trials for dementia therapies trials including Lecanemab, Donanemab, and Trontinemab. Outside of his clinical and research work, Dr. Okorie enjoys spending time with his wife and children and exploring new places with them through travel.

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Dr. Colleen Maytham

MD

Principal Investigator

Dr. Maytham is a Principal Investigator at Kelowna Health & Memory Centre, bringing over two decades of experience in family practice and extensive experience in clinical research. Trained in South Africa, she has been practicing as a family physician in British Columbia since 2001, where her versatility continues to shape her work in research.

Her early career included maternity care and emergency medicine in Invermere before shifting her focus to family practice. It was through this work that she discovered a passion for clinical trials. What she values most is empowering patients by helping them better understand their health and medications and feel informed about the research behind their treatment options. Her ultimate goal is to focus on scientifically important research that aims to improve care in today’s community.

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Dr. Kim Christie

PhD

President

Dr. Christie brings deep expertise in neurological diseases, with a particular focus on Alzheimer’s disease. With a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Calgary and a postdoctoral fellowship completed in Melbourne, she has built a career dedicated to her personal ties with Alzheimer’s disease and advancing research that makes a meaningful difference. Her extensive background in neurodegenerative disorders and experience in clinical research has positioned her as a leader in the positive trajectory of Alzheimer’s research globally.

Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Christie serves as the first point of contact for all new research studies conducted at Kelowna Health & Memory Centre. She can often be found in the community delivering presentations to educate and raise awareness about the options available to individuals and families. When she’s not in the clinic leading new research efforts, Dr. Christie can be found outdoors mountain biking local trails or camping throughout the region – or both!

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Dr. Javed Ali

MB, BCh, BAO, DME, MRCP(Ireland), SCE (Geriatrics), LMCC, FRCPC

Principal Investigator

Dr. Javed Ali cares for a broad spectrum of adult and older patients with complex medical needs, with expertise in geriatric medicine. He provides comprehensive care for older adults with complex medical needs, with a particular focus on frailty, cognitive impairment, and multi-system chronic disease.

He has extensive experience supporting patients living with mild cognitive impairment and dementia, working closely with families to address safety, independence, and long-term planning. Dr. Ali practices comprehensive geriatric assessment, integrating medical, functional, cognitive, and social factors into individualized care plans.

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Dr. Nicola Gray

MBChB, PhD, FC Derm(SA), FRCP

Dermatologist

Dr. Nicola Gray is a board-certified dermatologist and Clinical Trials Investigator at the Kelowna Health and Memory Centre. She holds a PhD from the University of Cape Town and completed specialist dermatology training at Stellenbosch University, with extensive experience in both clinical practice and academic research.

She has experience in dermatology clinical trials, with a particular focus on inflammatory skin disease, including moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. She is also a Clinical Instructor with the UBC Department of Dermatology and Skin Science and has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in international medical journals. Her work at KH&MC reflects a strong commitment to evidence-based medicine, research excellence, and advancing innovative treatment options for patients through clinical research.

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Dr. Wayne Lai

MD

Principal Investigator

Dr. Wayne Lai is a neurologist and sleep medicine specialist serving as a Clinical Trials Investigator at the Kelowna Health and Memory Centre. He brings extensive experience in neurology, sleep medicine, and clinical research, with advanced training completed in the United States and Canada. Dr. Lai has led multiple Phase II and Phase III clinical trials, including studies in Alzheimer’s disease, sleep disorders, and novel therapeutic technologies.

He is a Clinical Assistant Professor with the University of British Columbia’s Department of Medicine and holds several advisory and accreditation roles with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. At KH&MC, Dr. Lai is committed to advancing evidence-based research that supports innovation in neurological and sleep-related care.

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Linda Yearwood

NP(A), RN, MScN

Sub-Investigator

Linda Yearwood serves as a Sub-Investigator at Kelowna Health & Memory Centre, bringing a strong and well-rounded foundation in both medical and nursing care. Her career spans more than 20 years in nursing, with deep experience in oncology, palliative care, and hospice — areas that have shaped her compassionate approach and her commitment to supporting patients and families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Building on this foundation, Linda has spent the past decade working in clinical research, where she combines her clinical expertise with a passion for advancing treatment options and improving patient care for families in her community. Outside of work, Linda embraces an active lifestyle. She enjoys dragon boating, hiking, and spending time outdoors — activities that reflect her energetic spirit and love of teamwork.

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Sandra Okorie

MSc, BScPN

Psychiatric Nurse/CO-Founder

Nkiruka Sandra Okorie is a psychiatric nurse and healthcare leader with expertise in mental health, long-term care, and Alzheimer’s disease research. Sandra has worked across acute psychiatry and community settings and has served as a psychometric rater on international Alzheimer’s clinical trials, including studies evaluating treatments for early and mild Alzheimer’s disease.

She has also led independent research exploring the experiences of adult family members living alongside loved ones with dementia. Her career reflects a strong commitment to ethical research and high-quality support for patients and families.

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Emily Eisner BSc, CCRP

BSc, CCRP

Director of Research

As the Director of Research at KH&MC, Emily brings both scientific expertise and strong interpersonal skills to her work. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at UBC Okanagan, where she built a solid foundation in research, critical thinking, and scientific communication. Born and raised in Kelowna, Emily is deeply committed to supporting research that benefits her local community. She has extensive hands-on experience guiding participants through every stage of a clinical trial—from laboratory procedures and informed consent to regulatory documentation and day-to-day study coordination.

Her ability to clearly explain complex information, combined with her organized and detail-oriented approach, ensures that participants feel supported, informed, and comfortable throughout their research experience. Emily’s work reflects a balance of professionalism, empathy, and scientific rigor. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys cooking, baking, and experimenting with new recipes—interests that mirror her thoughtful, creative nature and her love of bringing care and precision into everything she does.

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Sarena Krell

Administrative and Finance Manager

Sarena is the Administration and Finance Manager at KH&MC, where she plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of both the clinic and its research programs. With a background in the Medical Office Assistant program from the University of the Fraser Valley, she has developed a strong foundation in healthcare administration that has allowed her to support multiple key areas of clinical trials, including regulatory processes and financial coordination.

Her attention to detail, organizational skill, and deep commitment to patient-centered care make her an essential part of the team. Sarena is passionate about contributing to meaningful research and improving healthcare pathways—not only for today’s patients but for the future well-being of her own children and the broader community.

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Chidera Okorie

Research Assistant

Chidera (Dera) Okorie is a motivated and detail-oriented scientist with a strong interest in pursuing a career in medicine. With a solid foundation in research, Dera brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to his work, shaped by experience in research support and community engagement.

Compassionate, driven, and highly organized, Dera is dedicated to building the knowledge and experience necessary to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. His long-term goal is to become a physician and contribute thoughtfully and effectively to patient care and medical advancement.