New Times, New Ways to Serve

New Times, New Ways to Serve

by Trish Reynolds T he last few months have been life-changing in so many ways, as we’ve all strived to adapt to our new reality. In July, we asked people affected by kidney disease or living with a kidney transplant from across Canada to participate in a survey about how the

The Kidney Foundation of COVID-19 pandemic has affected them. Among the most noteworthy findings

Canada, Ontario Branch is that the vast majority of respondents reported experiencing feelings such 2020 - 2021 as anxiety, depression or exhaustion since the pandemic began.

Board of Directors We remain committed to supporting the kidney community through this difficult time. Our peer support programs are designed to provide emotional

Craig Kerr, President support and resources to help people live well with kidney disease. In Ontario,

Richard Bernreiter we transitioned face-to-face peer support group meetings to virtual meetings in Mauro Burri March, resulting in greater opportunities for Ontarians to connect with others Charles Cook from across the province (see more about peer support on page 5).

Chris Costanza In addition, the financial impacts of the pandemic caused additional stress

Joanne Hagger-Perritt and hardship on the families we strive to serve. Demand for The Kidney FounAlan Hui dation’s short-term financial assistance program has soared in some regions.

Michael Mastronardi There have been increases in requests for assistance with transportation and

Dr. Norm Muirhead the cost-of-living expenditures.

Greg Robbins, Past President We’ve also sought new ways to answer questions and provide valuable Teresa Roberts information in an online format. Webinars over the last year covered Covid-19 Mary-Pat Shaw related subjects, including: Your Renal Diet; Kidneys and Coping: Ask Your Social Marlene Smith Worker; Transplant Questions Answered, and Dialysis Questions Answered. Sonya Solman Recordings of all of our webinars are available on our website at kidney.ca/ Susan Tkachuk Webinars. Terry Young While we’ve pivoted to deliver our programs in new ways to meet the increased need, we’ve also sought new ways to fundraise. (See more about how

Executive Director we’ve adapted our fundraising to support our mission on page 10). Anthony Tirone We also transitioned the annual Kidney Walk to a virtual event. The kidney Ontario Branch community gathered online on September 27 for our virtual opening ceremo1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 nies. Participants walked in their communities with their families and raised

Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 more than $660,000 to support critical programs and services. 1-800-387-4474 We continue to listen and learn as we strive to meet the changing needs of 905-278-3003 our community. Every decision we make will continue to be patient-centred. We can’t do what we do without your support. Thank you. 