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SPRING 2014
Transplant Research Healthy Living Miracle Weekend Preview
Transplants The Gift of Life
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Mission accomplished: $200 million raised! RENDERING OF THE NEW TECK ACUTE CARE CENTRE (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
On November 28, 2013, Don Lindsay, chair of the Campaign for BC Children, and Teri Nicholas, president & CEO of BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, proudly announced at the 27th annual Crystal Ball and on Global BC that the Campaign for BC Children has come to a successful close. Launched in April 2008 this $200-million campaign, which supports the construction of the Teck Acute Care Centre – the heart of the new BC Children’s Hospital – and Child Health BC, is the largest fundraising initiative for health care in the province’s history. Over 80,000 individuals and organizations stepped forward with contributions, ranging from a few dollars to $25 million. “I am overwhelmed by the level of support we’ve received over the past five years,” said Don Lindsay. “I want to thank every one of our supporters for their contributions. It has been my absolute privilege to lead the campaign and I cannot wait to celebrate all the great things that will come out of the new Children’s Hospital that our donors have made possible.” Of the $200 million raised, $150 million will go toward the construction of the new hospital and $50 million will help to expand access to specialized child health care for children and families across the province through Child Health BC. Construction of the new hospital will begin later this year and is expected to finish in 2018.
Join the million-dollar challenge Arran and Ratana Stephens, founders of BC-based Nature’s Path Foods, are giving children a million reasons to celebrate. These leading philanthropists have generously committed up to $1 million to inspire support for A Night of Miracles – an initiative of the South Asian community that raises funds for BC Children’s Hospital. On September 18, 2013, Arran and Ratana revealed their surprise $1-million challenge gift to encourage friends and supporters of A Night of Miracles to give generously to the initiative’s $3-million commitment to fund an interventional radiology room in the new BC Children’s. Arran and Ratana feel blessed for what 2 speaking of children spring 2014
they have received in their lives and are grateful to be able to give back to others. “This is a great cause to support,” said Arran Stephens. “You never lose when you give, especially when you give with a warm hand.” Supporters have until November 8, 2014 – this year’s A Night of Miracles gala – to fulfil the Stephens’ challenge. Thank you to the Stephens family and all of the donors who have stepped forward and joined them in making a lasting difference in the lives of children. To find out more visit www. anightofmiracles.ca
inside speaking of children
www.bcchf.ca
SPRING 2014 Managing Editor Stephen Forgacs
features
Editor Winnie Tam
Contributors Lesley Ellis, Kerry Gold, Mary Frances Hill, Leah Perrier
6 Heart of the Matter BC’s children requiring a heart transplant can now stay in province for the procedure.
Photography C & W Media Services Irvin Cheung Forever Photography Jeff Wedell Photography
8 A Diabetes-Free Future Corin Cao and other kids like her may benefit from a cure for diabetes in their lifetimes.
CREATIVE Director Susan Minton Green
Art Director Felice Bisby
10 Fighting Leukemia Lourdess Sumners is reclaiming her life after successfully beating her leukemia with a bone marrow transplant.
Project Manager Casey Crawford Produced by
departments For more information about the editorial content of Speaking of Children or to make a donation to BC Children’s Hospital Foundation or Sunny Hill Foundation for Children, please contact 604-875-2444, toll-free at 1-888-663-3033 or soceditor@bcchf.ca. Charitable Business Number: 11885 2433 RR0001 BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to SOC Editor at address above. Speaking of Children is published three times annually by BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. Supporters who donate $50 or more receive a one-year subscription to the magazine, which is also distributed to government officials, public health units and libraries throughout the province.
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superhero news well said caring for the future speaking of people what’s on healthy habits what’s up, doc? children speak
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a publication of
BC Children’s Hospital Foundation raises funds for Children’s Hospital, Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children and the Child & Family Research Institute.
On the Cover Addison McArthur and her mother Elaine Yong, Global BC news reporter, at their home in East Vancouver. Addison was the first infant to receive a heart transplant at BC Children’s Hospital in May 2011.
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well said
You did it! It’s incredible to think that it has already been four months since the Campaign for BC Children was completed. For five years, our foundation and the rest of the province have rallied behind this initiative, with the goal of transforming the delivery and landscape of child health care through the construction of a new BC Children’s Hospital and improved access to specialized health care across the province. I am deeply grateful to you – our donors, supporters and volunteers – for helping to bring this campaign to conclusion. Whether you gave $10 or $10,000, you have taken part in shaping the health of generations of BC’s children. As we look forward to construction of the new hospital getting underway this year, we remain focused on ensuring BC’s children get the best care possible today in our existing facility. As you will read, BC’s children receive exceptional care at our hospital – through specialized research, the development of new clinical programs like the Pediatric Heart Transplant Program, and our caregivers’ commitment to monitoring children’s health long after their procedures. Children in BC who have had a kidney, heart or bone marrow transplant have among the best survival rates in the world. And thanks to your support, they don’t just survive – they have the opportunity to thrive and enjoy long, healthy lives. For years to come, the children and families of BC will reap the benefits of your generosity and feel the impact of your gifts. Watch for the next issue of Speaking of Children as we reveal the renderings of the new BC Children’s Hospital and share more information about how your gifts are making a difference. Thank you for your support. Warm regards,
BC CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION Board of Directors 2014 as of January 1, 2014
Mr. David Podmore, Chair Ms. Leslie Arnold Mr. Kevin Bent Mr. David Doig Mr. Doug Gordon Mrs. Lisa Hudson Mrs. Tammi Kerzner Mr. Michael Lam Mr. Don Lindsay Mr. Graham MacLachlan Mr. Bjorn Moller Mr. Geoff Parkin Dr. Erik Skarsgard Ms. Andrea Southcott Mrs. Diane Zell
Foundation Executive Teri Nicholas, MSW, RSW President & CEO
Knut Nordlie, CFRE Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer
Debora Sweeney, CFRE Vice-President & Chief Strategy Officer
Maria Faccio Teri Nicholas, MSW, RSW President & CEO BC Children’s Hospital Foundation
Associate Vice-President, Philanthropy
Lillian Hum Associate Vice-President, Philanthropy
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Transplants Just several decades ago, the idea of transplanting one’s organ into another person was more science fiction than something that could happen in real life. Yet, as medical technology and our understanding of the human body advanced, we’re able to do just that. Thanks to the advent of solid organ and bone marrow transplantation, many children at our hospital have been given a second chance at life. In this issue of Speaking of Children, you will meet a few patients who’ve had one of these life-saving procedures. You will also meet the doctors and researchers who work hard behind the scenes to improve the long-term health of these children and see how, through science, they are finding new ways to treat a currently incurable disease.
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A CHANGE OF HEA BC Children’s launches official heart transplant program by MARY FRANCES HILL
When Shannon Westerlund recalls the events that turned her family’s life upside down, she remembers shock and sadness, but most of all, moments of serendipity. It’s those moments that she is most grateful for, a full year after her son Andrew got a new heart at BC Children’s Hospital. On the Friday before Christmas in 2012, Andrew, then 12, was clearly exhausted and complained of stomach aches. The pain didn’t let up, so Shannon and her husband Mike took Andrew to a clinic near their North Vancouver home, a move that would set in motion a visit to Lion’s Gate Hospital’s emergency room, a transfer to BC Children’s Hospital, and the discovery of a heart condition so grave it demanded a heart transplant. When she looks back, Shannon sees how every extra push, every gut instinct, made all the difference in furthering Andrew’s transplant and recovery. “What if I had ignored Andrew’s tummy muscle pain? What 6 speaking of children spring 2014
if the walk-in doctor just gave us antibiotics and sent us home? The ER doctor could have said, ‘I don’t see anything, let’s go home.’ But that doctor thought of checking Andrew’s glands and giving him an X-ray. It was that extra little effort every one of them gave that pushed things further.” It all led Andrew to the care of Dr. Sanjiv Gandhi, chief of Pediatric Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at BC Children’s Hospital, and the man who made it possible for Andrew to get his transplant in BC. Until recently, a patient in Andrew’s state – if stable enough to travel – would have been flown for treatment to one of the only two centres in Canada that had formal pediatric heart transplant programs, in Edmonton and Toronto. Dr. Gandhi and his cardiac surgery team and support staff worked hard to help Andrew stay in Vancouver for his transplant and his recovery. It was a struggle, Dr. Gandhi recalls.
feature story
RT Dr. Sanjiv Gandhi and Andrew Westerlund; Andrew and Dr. Derek Human at the clinic (right)
“It was difficult, but we wanted to keep him here. He was very sick.” That struggle – to keep kids in BC for treatment – will become a distant memory for cardiology professionals at BC Children’s Hospital. In October of last year, the Provincial Health Services Authority announced that the hospital’s heart centre would be recognized as a fully sanctioned pediatric cardiac transplant program. For families, the announcement means BC’s children will be able to stay close to home to receive any kind of cardiac surgery. For the entire Westerlund family, staying close to home for Andrew’s treatment gave some stability and peace at a time when everything else felt so out of control. “We were able to carry on our home life. His sisters had some consistency and we had a little bit of normalcy,” says Shannon.
Months after Andrew returned home, Shannon would write in her blog that she couldn’t imagine her son recovering without support at home, from his family and community. “Andrew’s doctors fought hard on our behalf and we are extremely grateful we were able to stay in BC. We try not to imagine what would have happened if Andrew had been sent out of BC.” Doctors and support staff are also relieved. “It lets us get back to the care and treatment of these very sick children,” says Dr. Gandhi. He says he sees the potential for the program as it evolves into one that, in time, might compare with more established programs in Edmonton and Toronto. BC Children’s Hospital is more than ready. Over the last four years, the hospital has added new personnel, made financial investments and introduced new innovations in its cardiac surgery program. “The human resources are here, the experience is all here,” says Dr. Gandhi. Today, Andrew and his family are living what his mother calls “the new normal.” He’s back at school and playing soccer. He’s skied, gone snowshoeing, and attended a 12-night camping trip with his Scout troop all the while managing his medications and paying regular visits to BC Children’s Hospital for blood work and biopsies. Through the whole ordeal, Shannon says she’s never forgotten the effort of professionals who have helped Andrew get his transplant, treatment and recovery – all at home. “We’ve made a point of going back to those people who did that little extra and To donate to telling them, ‘You BC Children’s Hospital, know, because you scan the QR code did this little extra or visit for Andrew, he’s bcchf.ca/socdonate alive today.’” spring 2014 speaking of children 7
feature story
SWEET A potential cure for type 1 diabetes is on the horizon by kerry gold
Five-year-old Corin Cao wears an insulin pump at her little waist, a constant reminder of her diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. The pump is crucial – it regulates the amount of insulin Corin needs throughout the day in order to stay alive. Her mother Jessie Zhang carefully monitors her diet and amount of exercise, checks her daughter’s blood glucose levels every day and ensures the pump is kept clean and functioning. Jessie quit her job as a computer programmer to take care of her daughter. She visits her regularly when she is at daycare, where teachers have also learned to test Corin’s blood sugar. Five or six times a day, Corin’s finger is pricked with a pin to obtain a drop of blood for the test. “She’s used to it and now starting to learn to test the blood sugar herself,” says Jessie. But one day, if all goes according to plan, Corin and thousands of other children like her could undergo pancreatic islet transplant surgery to potentially cure them of diabetes altogether. No more pumps or injections or dietary restrictions or finger-prick blood tests. Their bodies would function normally. Islets are scattered throughout the pancreas and contain beta cells that produce insulin. Those are the cells that have been destroyed in the bodies of people with type 1 diabetes. Research at BC Children’s Hospital is underway to replace those islets with healthy ones that will take over as the body’s normal insulin-production factory. They are getting closer to a cure, but there is still work to be done. “It’s potentially curative,” says Dr. Bruce Verchere, head of the 8 speaking of children spring 2014
Diabetes Research team at the Child & Family Research Institute at BC Children’s. “There have been about 500 islet transplants done worldwide. And for a while, the recipients got their blood sugars under control and they didn’t need insulin. “But in most of the patients, the transplants fail, and we don’t understand why. Immune rejection is part of it for sure. But there’s probably a bunch of other factors going on. We’re trying to find ways to enhance [the beta cells’] function, their survival, make it so that they last forever in the patient.” As well, Dr. Verchere and his research team are trying to find ways to protect the cells from immune rejection so that patients won’t have to endure harsh immunosuppressive drugs, which have risks and side effects.
DISCOVERY (left) Corin Cao; (bottom right) Dr. Bruce Verchere
Researchers are looking at using stem cells for transplants, and trying to find ways to protect, or encapsulate, those cells against immune attack. “Islet transplantation is a reality now, but is not yet available in kids,” Dr. Verchere says. “It’s improving to a stage where hopefully we can do it in kids soon, and we won’t need to give the cocktail of immunosuppressive drugs. In terms of clinical trials for encapsulated cells and cells made from stem cells, these are a reality happening in the next few years. How well they’ll work remains to be seen – but I am very hopeful that we will see a cure in our lifetime.” Today, Corin is like any other child her age; she attends daycare and plays with other children. But a few years ago, Corin and her family’s lives were thrown upside down when Corin developed a fever, stopped eating and had difficulty breathing before she fell into a coma while living in Beijing, China. The little girl was in a coma for 24 hours and when she awoke, doctors in Beijing diagnosed her with type 1 diabetes. If not addressed, the condition can lead to blindness, kidney disease, cardiac problems, amputations and even death. “The complications of the disease shorten the lifespan,” explains Dr. Verchere. “Some statistics suggest the lifespan of a person with type 1 diabetes may be shortened by 15 years on average.” Because it’s such a serious disease, Jessie was worried about the level of care she’d receive in Beijing, so she decided to take Corin back to Vancouver, where the youngster was born. “This was [the] first case of diabetes in our family and they didn’t give us information about diet and food and nutrition,” says
Jessie. “She was very skinny so we decided to move back to Vancouver for the treatment.” BC Children’s Hospital assembled a team that included dietitians, nurses and doctors to care for Corin. When she visits the clinic every three months, they check her insulin and blood glucose levels, assess her diet, and teach Jessie to manage her daughter’s disease. “One of the things we have is the infrastructure that we get from [BC Children’s Hospital] Foundation and the ability to do top research here,” says Dr. Verchere. “And also the people we have surrounding us, like our collaborators and colleagues, including the clinical team that sees kids with diabetes every day.” “We have a truly collaborative approach, and I think with the great resources and infrastructure that the research institute provides at Children’s To donate to we are emerging as BC Children’s Hospital, one of the world’s scan the QR code leading pediatric or visit diabetes research bcchf.ca/socdonate centres.” spring 2014 speaking of children 9
feature story
BRINGING HOPE THROUGH RESEARCH Improving the quality of life for children undergoing transplants by WINNIE TAM The infectious laughter of 15-year-old Lourdess Sumners says nothing about the medical problems she’s endured. Seven years ago, a lump the size of a golf ball developed in her neck and after a few tests and X-rays, she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. “It was like being hit in the head with a two-by-four,” recalls Orlando, Lourdess’ father. Lourdess was treated with chemotherapy at BC Children’s Hospital, but a year later she relapsed. Dr. Kirk Schultz, director of Childhood Cancer & Blood Research at BC Children’s Hospital and one of Lourdess’ oncologists, knew that a hematopoietic stem cell transplant would be Lourdess’ last chance to get better. Hematopoietic stem cells are blood cells that give rise to all the other blood cells, and are usually derived from bone marrow, peripheral blood or umbilical cord blood. “When used to treat cancer, a hematopoietic stem cell transplant uses the donor’s immune system to attack the 10 speaking of children spring 2014
leukemia,” says Dr. Schultz. “But sometimes the donor’s cells also attack the normal body cells. This is when we have graft-versus-host disease.” The potential for patients to develop graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the reason it’s seen as a last-resort type of treatment for leukemia. GVHD can lead to very serious symptoms such as attacks on almost any part of the body. The stem cells used in Lourdess’ transplant came from the umbilical cord blood of two anonymous, unrelated donors. Two months after Lourdess’ transplant, she had skin lesions and gastrointestinal problems so severe that she was unable to eat and was fed intravenously for eight months. Though those days were tough she has fond memories of the staff who cared for her. “Everyone was so awesome,” she says. “Dr. Schultz is like my second dad.” To enhance the quality of life for children like Lourdess, Dr. Schultz is collaborating with Dr. Megan Levings, a fellow scientist at the Child & Family Research
caring for the future
Inspired great-grandparents give back Institute, along with other Canadian partners, in the Canadian National Transplant Research Program (CNTRP). The CNTRP is researching how to improve the success of both stem cell and solid organ transplants, areas that, Dr. Levings says, traditionally did not interact but have much to learn from each other. “The problem with transplantation is that the drugs that patients need to be on shut down all immune responses,” she says. “We are studying how a special kind of immune cell, known as a regulatory T cell, could be used instead of immune-suppressing drugs to control GVHD or rejection of a solid organ transplant.” The CNTRP recently received a $13.85-million grant from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research, a big portion of which came to BC. “BC Children’s Hospital is one of the world’s leaders in chronic GVHD,” says Dr. Schultz. “We’re excited about the possibility to make transplants safer and better not only for children at our hospital, but around the world.” To donate to BC Children’s Hospital, scan the QR code or visit bcchf.ca/socdonate
Great-grandparents Joseph and Vonnie Kovacic know firsthand the importance of the care that BC Children’s Hospital provides to the children of British Columbia. Fourteen years ago, their then-14-year-old granddaughter Megan developed a benign brain tumour behind her left eye and required specialized care at Children’s. Thankfully, she recovered fully and is now a healthy mother of a four-year-old boy. Although it’s been over a decade since Megan was sick, Joseph and Vonnie still remember vividly their experience at the hospital. “The staff at BC Children’s were thoughtful, sensitive and caring,” says Vonnie. “They knew that as a 14-year-old girl, Megan’s hair was important to her. They took great care to only shave a portion of her head to perform the necessary surgery. It showed the level of understanding the staff have about children’s unique needs.” Megan’s treatment inspired the couple to make a bequest in their will to BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. They decided to use the “Tax Eliminator Clause” to leave their future gift to the hospital. “It was very simple,” says Vonnie. “With my lawyer’s help I added a clause to my will, which allows my executors the power to reduce the amount of income tax payable on my final tax return to zero by making a gift to BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.” “We know the hospital will put this gift to good use and continue to provide expert care to children like Megan,” Joseph says. “People don’t think their gift will make a difference, but it will; if everyone gave a little bit it would become a lot!” adds Vonnie. The Kovacics’ generosity reflects the value they place on child health and the well-being of children across the province. They know that it takes tremendous effort to provide worldclass care to the nearly one million children who call BC home, and they are happy to do their part to ensure this care can continue for many years to come. If you are preparing your will and are considering using the Tax Eliminator Clause, please review it with your legal and tax advisors to determine its suitability for you. of children 11 fall 2013 speaking
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AMPCO GRAFIX Since 2012, Ampco Grafix has been the Environmental Print Partner of BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, providing valuable in-kind printing services and discounts. With this generous support, the foundation has been able to promote its fundraising events and the capital campaign on the hospital campus and in the community. The foundation is grateful for Ampco’s support and thanks everyone at Ampco for their ongoing commitment to improving the lives of BC’s kids. [1] Banner at BC Children’s Hospital
MIRACLE WEEKEND CHAIR RECEIVES AWARD Aside from leading Miracle Weekend Raymond Li is also an exceptional wealth management professional. Raymond was recently awarded the Executive Council, one of RBC’s highest levels of recognition to its employees, for his outstanding performance in International Wealth Management. The recognition is given to top leaders who have demonstrated excellence in managing client relationships while achieving top-tier annual revenue production. Congratulations, Raymond! [2] Raymond Li
A NIGHT OF MIRACLES On October 19, the fifth annual A Night of Miracles, co-presented by Fasken Martineau and RBC, raised $369,000 toward the South Asian community’s pledge of $3 million to build an interventional radiology room in the new Children’s Hospital. Guests enjoyed the culinary delights of Marriott Vancouver Pinnacle Downtown’s executive chef Frank Gort in collaboration with Vikram Vij of Vij’s Restaurant. The event was made possible by Auction Sponsor Odyssey International, Car Sponsor Dilawri Group, Entertainment Sponsor KTL Transport and Evening Sponsors Ampri Group, CIBC, Faronics, KPMG, Lawson Lundell, 12 speaking of children spring 2014
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6 Nature’s Path, Smythe Ratcliffe and Twin Brook Developments Ltd. Thank you to the donors, guests and volunteers for making the gala a success. Community members who wish to contribute can increase the impact of their donations through Arran and Ratana Stephens’ challenge gift. Please see page 2 or visit www.anightofmiracles.ca for more information. [3] Left to right: Vik Khanna, vice-chair, A Night of Miracles; Pardeep Dosanjh, RBC Royal Bank; Teri Nicholas, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation; Will Westeringh, Fasken Martineau; Robin Dhir, chair, A Night of Miracles
FESTIVAL OF TREES Festival of Trees Vancouver raised over $148,000 thanks to generous sponsors and festival goers. The People’s Choice Award went to Team Finn for their Tree of Gold in support of childhood cancer awareness. Festival of Trees on Vancouver Island raised over $224,348 this year! Victoria brought in $205,404, Port Alberni raised $16,103 and Sooke raised $2,841. Thanks to all participants for a successful season and congratulations to the People’s Choice Award winners: BC Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (Victoria), Hugginz by Angel (Port Alberni) and Sooke Montessori (Sooke). [4] Madeline Smith, Festival of Trees Victoria champion child
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CRYSTAL BALL The 27th annual Crystal Ball, presented by Beedie Living, raised $2 million for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, taking our $200-million capital campaign, the Campaign for BC Children, over the top! The Crystal Ball committee, led by chair Arya Eshghi, treated guests to the delectable culinary creations of Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver’s executive chef Ned Bell, perfectly paired with wines from Painted Rock Estate Winery. The event was made possible by Crystal Sponsors Canaccord Financial, The Keg Steakhouse & Bar, New Gold Inc., Universal Packaging Inc., Wesgroup, and Ferrari Maserati of Vancouver, as well as Crystal In-Kind Sponsor the Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver. Visit www.bcchf.ca/crystalball [5] MCs Jill Krop and Chris Gailus from Global BC with BC Children’s Hospital patient Casey Wright at the Crystal Ball
NEW HOSPITAL PRESIDENT Leslie Arnold has been appointed the new president of BC Children’s Hospital and Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, following the departure of former president Larry Gold in December. Leslie assumes her new role while retaining her position as president of BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services. With Leslie’s appointment BC Children’s Hospital Foundation is also pleased to welcome her to its Board of Directors. She will work closely with staff to continually improve care and promote clinical excellence for BC’s children. [6] Leslie Arnold
FOR CHILDREN WE CARE On February 22, the 19th annual For Children We Care gala, presented by the Metro Vancouver BMW Retailers for the fourth year in a row, raised an astounding $416,720 for the Diabetes Research Program at BC Children’s Hospital. Organized by the ChineseCanadian community, this black-tie event attracted close to 600 guests to the Vancouver Convention Centre. To date, the gala has raised $11 million for BC Children’s in areas such as genetic research, construction of the mental health building, oncology research and the Campaign for BC Children. Visit www.bcchf.ca/fcwc
Camp for Kids with Allergies
BC Children’s Hospital patient Ainslee Nellis and her mother Shelly are helping to give kids with severe allergies a safe camp experience. BC’s first Camp for Children with Severe Food Allergies will be held at Zajac Ranch for Children from August 25-29, for kids ages seven to 17. All food will be free of the top eight allergens: dairy, egg, peanut, tree nuts, wheat, soy, sesame and shellfish. For more information on Zajac Ranch for Children please visit www.zajacranch.com
Bats for a Cause The sixth annual Bats for a Cause softball tournament will take place in Kelowna at the Mission Sports Fields on July 26 and 27. This tournament has raised over $168,000 for BC Children’s Hospital to date and is always a blast! For more information and to register visit www.bcchf.ca/batsforacause
[7] Cheque presentation at the 2014 For Children We Care gala
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miracle weekend
Message from the Chair As a former marathon runner, I know how patience, hard work and perseverance are key to crossing the finish line. In my second year as chair of Miracle Weekend, I have come to see the weekend as a marathon, and understand well how those same attributes are needed to reach our fundraising goal on May 31 and June 1. I can’t think of a better race, or a better cause, to run for. The team that I am privileged to lead comprises hundreds of dedicated individuals who work hard year-round to reach their fundraising targets, all of which contribute to the grand total that is revealed to the province on Global BC. Inside BC Children’s Hospital, other teams are busy running their own marathons – the caring staff who dedicate themselves to helping children get better, and the courageous patients and their families who fight through obstacles to overcome their illnesses or injuries. These incredible people are what make BC Children’s Hospital a one-of-a-kind facility and every day, they inspire us to do what we can to help. I encourage all British Columbians to take part in Miracle Weekend, and support the urgent needs of BC Children’s Hospital, Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children and the Child & Family Research Institute. Through participating in events like Jeans Day™, Slo-Pitch and ChildRun, by starting your own fundraising events or giving at the register when you’re shopping, you will make a difference. Thank you for joining our race and being a part of Miracle Weekend.
Raymond Li, RBC Chair, 2014 Miracle Weekend 14 speaking of children spring 2014
BC Children’s H Miracle Weeke Tune in Saturday, May 31 at 7:00 pm Meet eight-year-old Grace Teboekhorst, our 2013-14
This Children’s Miracle Network program honours remarkable children who
Hi, my name is Grace Teboekhorst. I am honoured to be the champion child for 2013-14 for BC Children’s Hospital. Getting to know the team from Walmart Canada this year helped me to understand why they sponsor this great program. Being an ambassador for BC Children’s has allowed me to share my story of living with kidney disease and a kidney transplant. I also got to go on an amazing Champions trip last October with my family and all the other champions. In Toronto I met new friends from Canada, and in Orlando I met some great kids from the USA. Meeting Zendaya from the Disney Channel’s “Shake it Up” and Miss America was especially fun! This trip taught me that I am not the only kid who overcomes medical challenges each day. Being able to go to BC Children’s Hospital keeps me healthy, happy and home with my family more. My second chance at life has inspired me to continue to give back any way I can. Love, Grace
Today, Grace receives post-transplant care at BC Children’s and she will need another kidney transplant in the future. For now, thanks to the care she’s receiving at the hospital and the support of her family, Grace is an energetic young girl. Learn more about Grace and how she has given back to the hospital that saved her life at www.bcchf.ca/grace
The Miracle Weekend Team
Hospital nd on Global BC through Sunday, June 1 at 6:00 pm
Champion Child taking part in the Champions presented by Walmart Canada program. have triumphed despite severe medical challenges. Jeans Day™ On April 24, thousands of British Columbians will participate in Jeans Day™. Help us reach our goal of $1.3 million by purchasing a lapel pin or button and wearing your denim! This year’s promotional material features Daniel and Henrik Sedin, Ryan Kesler and Kevin Bieksa along with their young look-alikes. To learn more, visit www.jeansday.ca Slo-Pitch Join your industry and sign up your team today for the annual SloPitch Event for BC Children’s Hospital. Find out for yourself why up to 80 teams participate in this fun team-building experience every year. Corporate teams each raise more than $3,000 to play in one-day mini recreational tournaments at Softball City in South Surrey, May 23, 24 or 25. Get on base for BC’s kids at www.bcchf.ca/slopitch ChildRun Register today for the 29th annual ChildRun presented by the Wilson Family. As the largest family fun run in Vancouver, ChildRun inspires participants to raise funds for childhood cancer research and treatment at BC Children’s Hospital. On Sunday, June 1, ChildRun will host runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Participants can choose between a scenic five-kilometre route through Queen Elizabeth Park or the Thrifty Foods 1-km Fun Run, followed by a carnival celebration. Register for this don’t-miss event at www.childrun.com A World of Smiles After 15 amazing years of the A World of Smiles (AWOS) telethon BC Children’s Hospital Foundation is rolling the recognition provided to our donors in the South Asian community into our annual Miracle Weekend celebration. The foundation is grateful for the hard work of many people who have made A World of Smiles such a success, including our volunteers and donors, the AWOS committee members and our friends at Shaw TV and Shaw Multicultural Channel. Chinese-Canadian Miracle Weekend Going into its 26th year, the Chinese-Canadian Miracle Weekend has grown to raise over $1 million annually for BC Children’s Hospital. Funds are raised year-round through myriad events within the Chinese-Canadian community. This year, these fundraising initiatives culminate on May 31 with a three-hour telethon on Fairchild Television and two radiothons on Fairchild Radio AM1470 and CHMB AM1320, featuring patient stories, live interviews and community fundraising highlights. This year, proceeds from the event will support the most urgent needs at the hospital.
Miracle Weekend Executive Chair Raymond Li, RBC Vice-Chair Allen Bordeleau, Overwaitea Food Group Honorary Physician Dr. Jennifer Druker, BC Children’s Hospital
Miracle Weekend Fundraising Cabinet Banks Todd Shewfelt, RBC, Chair ChildRun Roshanac Imami-Heed, CIBC, Chair; Constance Baechler, RBC, Vice-Chair Chinese-Canadian Miracle Weekend Stella Chan, Primerica Financial Services & Venita Kwan, Care Plus Cleaning Services, Co-Chairs Credit Unions, Insurance & Financial Services Valerie Mackey, Aldergrove Credit Union, Chair Hospital Liaison Committee Terry Ho, BC Children’s Hospital, Chair; Debbie Cain, BC Children’s Hospital, Vice-Chair Jeans Day™ Cynthia Curll, BC Hydro, Chair Mining Jason Weber, Chair Real Estate & Development Roger Steers, Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd., Chair; Matt Walker, Avison Young, Vice-Chair Retail & Wholesale Bruce Shepherd, Global TV/Shaw Media, Chair; Claude Gauthier, National Importers, Co-Vice-Chair Slo-Pitch Kendall Andersen, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, Chair South Asian Community Suky Cheema, BDO Canada LLP, Chair; Akash Sablok, Sablok & Sablok Notaries Public, Vice-Chair
Miracle Weekend Operations Cabinet Catering David Rooney & Nia Vekris, Co-Chairs Donations Management Carolyn Davies, Chair Guest Services Christina Papadimitriou, Chair Logistics Nicole Victor, Chair Play Area Brina Soni, Chair Presentations Donna Blaker & A.K. Hudani, Co-Chairs Registration John Chandler, Chair Telephones Management Carol Miller & Louise Schmiing, Co-Chairs
Communities For Kids Nanaimo Kathy Berg & Andrea van Rossum, Co-Chairs Port Alberni Barbara-Anne Kalugin & Steven Kalugin, Co-Chairs Prince George John Abbott & Richard Mintz, Co-Chairs Sooke Shanna Hamilton & Elizabeth Olsen, Co-Chairs Upper Fraser Valley Casey Hillton, Chair Vanderhoof Corleen McNolty & Michelle Roberge, Co-Chairs
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healthy habits
Eat healthy and stay active Enjoy a healthy lifestyle with these easy ideas
by Leah Perrier, RD
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Now that you’ve eased into the new year, why not revamp your lunch box with a few new snack ideas? Avoid the cookie and packaged treat aisles at the grocery store and pack some healthy wholesome foods to keep you and your family well fuelled for the week. Give the following ideas a try: Ants on a log: This one might make you feel nostalgic as you make it. Turns out this classic kindergarten snack isn’t just fun, it’s also healthy: celery is a source of potassium, peanut butter has protein, and raisins have fibre. Carrot sticks and hummus: This crunchy snack is a great way to get some protein and vitamin A into your diet. Easy to transport to school and work, simply prepare by putting the hummus at the bottom of a small jar and placing the carrot sticks in so they stand up. Pita wheels: There are a million things you can do with this basic recipe. Get a healthy pita (look for whole grain), spread it with your ingredients of choice (light cream cheese and jelly,
Test your healthy lifestyle knowledge 2. How much physical activity do children aged five to 11 need per day? a) At least 15 minutes b) At least 30 minutes c) At least an hour d) At least two hours 3. Which of the following equals one serving of vegetables and fruit according to Canada’s Food Guide? a) 125 mL of fresh, frozen or canned vegetable or fruit b) 250 mL of leafy raw vegetables c) A piece of fruit d) All of the above Answers: 1) a; 2) c; 3) d
almond butter, hummus and thinly sliced meat, anything you can come up with – just make sure you have a sticky layer), roll it up, and then chop it into fun wheels. Roasted chickpeas: Here’s a great option if your family enjoys the crunchiness of chips. Incorporate their favourite flavours, like BBQ or chili, with a healthy ingredient like chickpeas, a source of fibre and protein. Wash and dry a can of chickpeas well, spread them out on a baking sheet (layer with foil), sprinkle the peas with olive oil and your favourite flavourings. Roast at 425 degrees F for 15 minutes, toss well and flip, bake for another 15 minutes, and let cool. Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is all over the grocery aisles now, and it’s a good thing! It’s full of healthy bacteria that keep your gut humming along, it’s a great source of calcium and contains twice the amount of protein than regular varieties. To avoid excess added sugars, look for plain yogurt, and add in your own mixers like berries or granola.
1. Eating nuts and seeds can contribute to a healthy heart, reduced blood pressure and a lower risk of some cancers. a) True b) False
Importance of family meals Research shows that children who eat at least one meal a day with their family develop more nutritious eating habits and do better in school. They are also twice as likely to eat the five servings of vegetables and fruits each day prescribed by Canada’s Food Guide. There are other benefits: • Families save money. • Children and teens develop a stronger sense of belonging. • Family communication can improve. • Children and teens often have less behavioural problems. Though many of us know the benefits of eating together, it can be challenging to make family meal times work. Follow these tips to help create a stress-free meal time: • Turn off the TV. • Take phone calls later. • Plan simple meals to prepare. • Schedule mealtimes and make it a routine. • Eat a variety of foods to keep meals interesting. • Involve kids in grocery shopping, meal preparation and clean up when you can. • Talk together, laugh together. • Make sure everyone has a chance to speak and be heard.
Move every day Other than eating healthy, exercise is also important. With the weather getting warmer, now is the time to start venturing outside to get your daily dose of recommended physical activity. Here are three easy ways you can get active this spring: Go outside: Avoid the drop-off chaos by encouraging your kids to wake up a few minutes early to walk to school. No time for an early morning stroll? Squeeze in a brisk walk after dinner time around your neighbourhood to get your heart rate up. Join a group: Create a routine to avoid missing workouts. Consider joining a lunch-office walking club or find a friend to accompany you for a workout so you don’t lose motivation. Encourage your kids to join you. Try a new sport: Sign your kids up for something new like curling or fencing to pique their interest. Information in this article has been provided by the Centre for Healthy Weights – Shapedown BC, a program that promotes healthy lifestyle changes for children, teens and their families struggling with weight issues. For more information, visit www.bcchildrens.ca/healthyweights
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what’s up, doc?
Dr. Colin White one happened to be my pediatrician, a man who impressed me in his dedication to his patients, his family and to never rushing himself or them. Eventually he went from being my pediatrician to being an inspiration, an elective supervisor, and then a friend and colleague. Oh and I like coffee, too!
HOBBIES
BEHIND THE STETHOSCOPE I am a pediatrician and a nephrologist who spends his time working with patients either needing dialysis or with severely damaged kidneys. My other “hats” within the division are that of the fellowship program director, and I coordinate and teach a first-year undergraduate medical course at UBC, and will also coordinate a second-year course in the near future.
MEDICAL TRAINING
Reading and listening to music sounds so goofy – but as you can see below it would be a lie to say it wasn’t something I was pretty devoted to. Until Medicine ruined my brain I might have said chess – ‘tis now a “hobb”lite only. Photography has become my recent time and dollar-waster – and a path back to my geek days of math and physics.
SECRET FANTASY A month or three someplace warm and sunny and a chance to burn the midnight oil with all of the following: Iain M. Banks, Stephen Baxter, Hal Duncan, Ian McDonald, Richard K. Morgan, Neal Stephenson (‘tis a secret fantasy so don’t feel bad if you need to ask who these guys are…).
“Go west young man” was my medical training mantra! Starting in New Brunswick with two years of undergraduate sciences at UNB, followed by an enjoyable federal taxpayer-supported MD degree in Ottawa, four years of Pediatrics, one more as a neonatal clinical assistant and three of Pediatric Nephrology training in London, Ontario, brought me to the need for some form of a life decision. Hence, my decision to move further west to Vancouver for three more years of Pediatric Nephrology training and finally a commitment to a city for more than a decade now!
Take any non-medical reading – any genre outside of selfhelp books – combine with a very eclectic iTunes library and good headphones – mix in any form of a comfortable chair – add a good light because my eyesight is as old as I am...now add an endlessly recharged Chapters/Amazon/iTunes card. And be sure you don’t need me to show up at rounds anytime this century!
WHAT YOU’D NEVER KNOW ABOUT ME
PHILOSOPHY
Birth certificate says Scotland (despite Canada forcing me to say Great Britain) and the accent comes back in full force if I am very tired...or very angry. So if I don’t have a large coffee in my hand you should duck!
Patient care-wise I believe that in almost all situations taking time to explain the why and how something has happened will benefit everyone – patient, family, nurses, students and often me too! Education-wise – if you want to learn now then I will teach now...and will keep teaching ‘til you tell me to stop!
WHY I BECAME A DOCTOR Enough time spent in hospitals and medical offices as a young kid to realize that there are some amazing people in medicine –
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IF I DIDN’T HAVE TO WORK
WHAT I’M READING NOW The Fractal Prince by Hannu Rajaneimi.
children speak
Dear Children’s Hospital . . . Thomas Dignum has made quite the remarkable recovery. After suffering a massive stroke in his brain stem, he received an innovative interventional radiology procedure at BC Children’s Hospital that saved his life. In the following letter, he writes about life after his treatment and what he’s doing to give back.
Do you have a story about BC Children’s Hospital to tell? Please submit your Miracle Kid stories to stories@bcchf.ca
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PM 40659514