He holds degrees in biochemistry and medicine from the University of British Columbia and a PhD in physiology from the University of Toronto together with specialist certification in internal medicine and intensive care medicine. His research focuses on the impact of mechanical ventilation on the lungs and muscles of breathing. As an ICU physician, he frequently cares for patients at the end of their lives. His work on the issues of physician-assisted death and physician conscientious objection has been published in an academic medical journal and the press. He and his family live in Toronto and attend Grace Fellowship Church Don Mills.