1 minute read
Looking Forward
The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Ontario Branch 2020 - 2021 Board of Directors
Craig Kerr, President Richard Bernreiter Mauro Burri Charles Cook Chris Costanza Joanne Hagger-Perritt Alan Hui Michael Mastronardi Dr. Norm Muirhead Greg Robbins, Past President Teresa Roberts Mary-Pat Shaw Marlene Smith Sonya Solman Susan Tkachuk Terry Young
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Executive Director Anthony Tirone Ontario Branch 1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 1-800-387-4474 905-278-3003
by Trish Reynolds
World Kidney Day 2020 is a day I won’t soon forget. It was on that very day, that we heard that schools would close after March Break as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It started what can only be described as a roller-coaster year. From lockdowns to colour coding systems, mask wearing and social distancing, we’ve learned a whole new language and new way of life.
While there have been numerous changes—too numerous to count—it has also been a year of change for many in our community. Transplants were postponed and re-scheduled (see Brennan’s story on page 16); new babies came into the world (check out Marie-Eve’s amazing story on page 14) and more patients than ever before reached out for peer support through our virtual group meetings (see page 4).
It was also a year of change for The Kidney Foundation, as we transitioned in-person events to virtual experiences and launched new ways to raise funds. And you responded with your support.
Peer support was delivered in new ways. We helped more patients with emergency financial assistance and provided new educational opportunities for patients and caregivers. We are raising our voice and advocating on behalf of dialysis patients to ensure timely access to the COVID-19 vaccine.
We continue to seek new ways to bring you the information you need to live your best life. It’s safe to say that we all look forward to brighter days ahead. We have some amazing stories to share in this issue of Kidney Living—stories that showcase the spirit, determination and resilience of our kidney community.
While the past year has been a challenge, we’re eagerly looking forward. Our vision is the same—to achieve excellent kidney health, optimal quality of life and a cure for kidney disease.
Won’t you join us?
