Married doctors watch out for Canada’s hockey players, but barely see each other at 2026 Olympics
Dr. Laura Bennion and Dr. Ian Auld, both team physicians for Canada’s hockey teams, are participating in the 2026 Olympics but find themselves spending little time together.
Dr. Laura Bennion and Dr. Ian Auld are both team physicians for Hockey Canada, with each assigned to their respective men's and women's hockey teams during the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympic Games. Despite the opportunity to attend the same Olympics, the couple faces the challenge of working in different roles and locations, leading to minimal time spent together. This situation is not new for them, as their careers often require them to travel and work independently for extended periods.
Their dual involvement in the Olympics highlights the unique circumstances that come with being a couple in fast-paced, demanding medical careers within sports. They discussed the surreal experience of attending the same Olympic games but continuing to navigate their individual responsibilities, which means balancing personal life with professional obligations is a continuing challenge for both of them. It further emphasizes the sacrifices which many medical professionals in sports face, especially when major international events like the Olympics are involved.
As they perform their duties, both Dr. Bennion and Dr. Auld remain dedicated to providing the best medical care to their athletes. Their commitment to excellence is evident, but it raises questions about the personal sacrifices made by partners in similar high-pressure fields. Their story sheds light on the realities faced by professionals in sports medicine and the need for work-life balance, especially in demanding roles like theirs during significant global events.