When Jay and Julie Coffey returned to the Rock in 2008 to open a dermatology clinic in Grand Falls-Windsor under a two-year contract, they could not have imagined that 11 years later they would be firmly rooted in a community and its people.
Fast forward to 2019 and they have built their practice from the ground up to a thriving, growing clinic that employs a team of loyal and dedicated medical professionals.
Outside of clinic, they have raised two children, taken part in countless organizations, shared their musical talents and passion for the arts, thrown a curling rock or two, and always been amongst the first to support local business and events. In short, they have become an integral part of the fabric of Central Newfoundland.
After graduation from the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Dr. Coffey began his career in Red Deer. When given a chance to set up shop anywhere in Canada, he chose Grand Falls-Windsor in his home province.
“We loved it here so much. There was no question — we were staying,” recalls Dr. Coffey. “It’s been a wonderful place to raise our children. Our patients are phenomenal. We’ve been truly blessed to live and work here.”
His wife, Julie, agrees.
“We moved here with our two young children knowing only a few people,” says Julie. “We thought we’d only be here for a few years, but it’s been almost 11 years — and it’s been quite a ride! We love it here.”
Rebranded as Vaenn Dermatology, their clinic has grown from a small practice to a team of 10 talented employees. “Vaenn,” pronounced “Vi-Enn,” is from the Norse word meaning “beautiful.”
The concept stems from Jay and Julie’s love of Norse mythology, and its creative design and artwork were entrusted to the very talented local artist, Craig Goudie. The idea was brought to life and now — with a new name and a growing business — the Coffeys are excited for whatever else the future holds.
To commemorate 10 years and the rebranding of their clinic, Dr. Coffey and Julie are planning a 10-year anniversary celebration and Open House on Feb. 12. The event will be catered by local chef Jeff Pope of Third Place Cafe, and will feature live music as well as demonstrations of cosmetic and medical procedures.
If you’ve ever been intrigued by Botox or filler but you’re nervous about making an appointment, now is your chance to watch the procedure before deciding if it’s for you.
“We want people to feel comfortable and ask questions about our medical and cosmetic dermatology services,” says Dr. Coffey. “We’re here to help them understand their options, and offering a celebration of our services seems like a fitting way to do that.”
Dermatologists are trained to recognize and identify underlying medical conditions thus cosmetic options may not be the best idea for a client once assessed by a specialist. These services are “minimally invasive,” rather than “non-invasive,” and thus require medical expertise. Having a strong knowledge of facial and skin anatomy — as well as knowing how to treat any side effects — is essential to a safe and cosmetically pleasing visit.
As the general public grows more aware of — and more comfortable with — the idea of cosmetic procedures, there is a danger that people won’t be cautious about where they seek those services.
“Sometimes people want immediate gratification,” Dr. Coffey says. “But they may be going about it in potentially hazardous ways.”
He says, for example, they may search the internet or the Yellow Pages for “deals” without a regard for safety first.
Although Vaenn Dermatology is modern and relaxed with the look and feel of a spa, it’s important to note that the staff are experienced medical professionals. Dr. Coffey has been in the medical field for 20 years and his nurses receive advanced training in dermatology.
He sees patients on a regular basis for the treatment of skin cancer, and he operates the largest psoriasis clinic in the country. In his early years, he worked at the Janeway Children’s Hospital and developed a special interest in Pediatric Dermatology.
Dr. Coffey’s knowledge and expertise in all areas of dermatology is well-respected and sought after. He was recently recognized by his peers as the inaugural president for the newly formed Dermatology Association of Newfoundland & Labrador (DANL).
Vaenn Dermatology offers a full range of medical and cosmetic services, including Botox, filler, laser, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, hair removal and the treatment of leg veins.
While a cosmetic clinic is most often associated with beauty and aesthetics, there are a number of underlying medical conditions that can benefit from laser and cosmetic procedures, such as rosacea, acne Scarring, TMJ and migraines.
Anyone looking to be treated medically will need a referral from a family physician. Some conditions require a comprehensive approach to healing with both medical and cosmetic resources in play.
In other cases, cosmetic services may be elective and a patient can self-refer. Dr. Coffey says the key to any treatment is early consultation.
“You don’t wait until your hair is completely white to use hair dye,” say Dr. Coffey. “It’s the same with your skin — it’s much easier to get results and maintain healthy looking skin with a regime of treatment and maintenance early on.”
Demonstrations will run throughout the afternoon and evening at the event on Feb. 12.
“We would like more people in Central and Western Newfoundland to know that we’re here if they want to talk about a procedure,” says Dr. Coffey. “We want to demystify cosmetic services and make everyone feel at ease.”
“It will be a celebration of all things beautiful.”
For more information or to confirm your attendance for the anniversary celebrations, please call Vaenn Dermatology at (709) 292-8435.
