KIDNEY
living www.kidney.on.ca
Winter 2010 Volume 3 • Number 1
A PUBLICATION OF THE ONTARIO BRANCH
Dr. Susan Quaggin 2009 Medal for Research Excellence Recipient
What’s in this issue – Winter 2010 3 5
Footloose
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2009 Medal for Research Excellence awarded to Dr. Susan E. Quaggin
Celebrating a Quarter Century of Progress
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It’s about being patient-oriented
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Honouring Southwestern Ontario’s Community Champions
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Galabration—An evening everyone will be talking about
15 17
Tax Tips
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Paying it forward—The New Challenge Campaign
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World Kidney Day raises awareness
Band Against Kidney Disease Are you up for a challenge? Cohen & Cohen: Celebrating our partners in success
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National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week
Community Highlights
12 The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Ontario Branch 2009-2010 Board of Directors
Editing, design and printing by GEPM Group Inc. www.gepmgroup.com
Executive Peter Davis, President Riva Grinshpan, Past President Harvey Thomson, Vice President Richard Harvey, Treasurer Directors at Large Hélène Beaulieu Margaret Hanlon-Bell Christine Jowett Doug Parsons Tim Phillips Brian Porter Marlene Smith Steve Smith John L.P. Thorne Dr. Jeffrey Zaltzman Executive Director Jim O’Brien Ontario Branch 1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 1-800-387-4474 905-278-3003
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Stories of Hope—The Heenan Family
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Taking the lead in Scarborough
Cover photo: Dr. Susan Quaggin, 2009 Medal of Research Excellence Winner. Photo credit: Marc Crabtree for The Kidney Foundation of Canada.
©2009. Kidney Living, the contents of which is subject to copyright, is published three times a year. Reproduction in whole or in part, in written, electronic or any other format, without prior written permission, is strictly prohibited. For more information, please contact Trish Reynolds, Editor at treynolds@kidney.on.ca or 1-800-387-4474 Ext. 4981. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40011479 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Trish Reynolds, Communications Manager, Circulation Department, 1599 Hurontario St., Suite 201, Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1; email:treynolds@ kidney.on.ca. Phone:1-800-387-4474.
www.kidney.on.ca
Ontario Branch 1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 1-800-387-4474/905-278-3003 kidney@kidney.on.ca CHAPTER OFFICES Central Ontario 1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 1-800-387-4474/905-278-3003 kidney@kidney.on.ca Eastern Ontario 400C–1150 Morrison Dr. Ottawa, ON K2H 8S9 New mailing address effective Mar. 5/10: 401 - 1376 Bank St., Ottawa K1H 7Y3 613-724-9953/1-800-724-9953 eob@kidney.ca Hamilton & District 1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 1-800-387-4474 ttirone@kidney.on.ca Kingston 100 Stuart St. Kingston, ON K7L 2V6 613-542-2121 kate@kidney.ca Niagara & District 1599 Hurontario St. Suite 201 Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1 1-800-387-4474 ttirone@kidney.on.ca Northern Superior 605 Hewitson St. Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5V5 807-624-2680 kidney@tbaytel.net Sarnia-Lambton 546 Christina St. N., Main Floor Sarnia, ON N7T 5W6 519-344-3462 elaine1@slkidney.org Sault Ste. Marie 514 Queen St. E., 2nd Floor, Suite 1 Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2A1 705-949-0400 ssmkidney@shaw.ca Southwestern Ontario 379 Dundas St., Suite 119 London, ON N6B 1V5 519-850-5362 kidney@execulink.com Timmins-Porcupine 11357 Hwy. 101 E. Connaught, ON P0N 1A0 705-235-3233 tpkidney@ntl.sympatico.ca Windsor & District 1368 Ouellette Ave., Suite 310 Windsor, ON N8X 1J9 519-977-9211 kidney@mnsi.net Western Ontario (Kitchener/Waterloo) 379 Dundas St., Suite 119 London, ON N6B 1V5 1-800-667-3597 siobhan.bhagwat@kidney.ca
LIVING WELL
Footloose Kidney disease doesn’t have to keep you at home
by Heidi Westfield
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shbel Thomson loves to take long walks by the ocean. The 56-year-old office administrator has seen some of the world’s most beautiful beaches in places like Grand Cayman, the Florida Keys, the Virgin Islands and Hawaii. For her, travel represents freedom; a way to continue having as normal a life as possible while on dialysis. “I don’t like to think I am sick. I don’t want my kidney disease and dialysis to stop me from doing what I want to do.” For people on dialysis, leaving home to travel is daunting, especially to faraway places. Ishbel was a bit apprehensive herself a few years back, before her first vacation on dialysis. She was going to Galveston, Texas to board a cruise ship destined for the Caribbean. “When I got on board I went straight to my cabin and all the supplies for dialysis were there. That’s when I relaxed.” Ishbel, who lives just west of Toronto, is a frequent client of the Baxter Travel Club. The service allows people using the company’s home peritoneal dialysis (PD) system to continue to go to their cottage or cabin, visit family, travel south for the winter, travel in Europe, or even see historic sites in India. Baxter can deliver bags of solutions and other PD supplies to travel destinations throughout Canada and around the world. “We don’t want you to be confined to the four corners of your house,” says Leslie Scott, a Baxter home patient representative who helps coordinate travel. “There is usually some reluctance before patients go. But the minute they come back I ask, So when are you taking your next cruise?” Cruises are especially popular. While Baxter cannot deliver PD supplies directly to some Caribbean countries, Ishbel was able to visit many islands on board cruise ships departing from North America. The key to traveling on dialysis is planning. Travel coordinators need about 10 days notice to ship PD supplies to destinations within Canada, but at least a one-month notice if you are boarding a cruise ship out of the United States. The Travel Club cannot get you everywhere, but it can deliver supplies to a long list of faraway places. For people traveling to more exotic locations, it takes approximately three months notice to get all the paperwork in order. Those destinations include Europe, the Middle East, Indonesia, South America and Australia. As for Ishbel, she is working on plans for her dream vacation: a 14-day Baltic cruise to Russia with a stop in St. Petersburg. And for now? Another cruise this April to the Caribbean, and more long, wonderful walks on the beach. Visit www.kidney.ca/kidneystories/jeanlouisclemendot to read another great travel story – a solo sailing trip around the world! Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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PERSONAL STORY
Stories of Hope Last March, the Foundation put out a call to hear your stories of hope. The stories received were heartfelt and inspiring. The following two stories, shared by Hilary and Mike Heenan, illustrate how kidney disease truly affects families and how those families stay strong in the face of adversity.
Hilary’s Story My story of hope is ever evolving, into what my husband Mike and I like to call our “new normal.” Hands outstretched, through the tiny holes of my daughter’s incubator, I gently touch our tiny miracle… a 4 lb, 6 oz. baby girl, who would forever change our lives. I wondered how I would ever explain to her that while she was in the NICU, fighting a good fight, Mommy was doing the same, waiting to start dialysis. Little did I know, her unconditional love would never require such an explanation. From the beginning, all she ever wanted to know was that I loved her.
The Heenan Family Five years later, Olivia is thriving. She has started SK, has joined gymnastics, takes swimming lessons and lives for everything princess which, of course, means so do I. After a few years of hospital based dialysis, we have had the great fortune of starting home dialysis. Initially, we were concerned that it might be too much to handle, but in many ways it has allowed our family to become closer and I have gained a greater perspective into what truly allows me to feel my best. What I never expected five years ago, when facing great adversity, was that dialysis could simply be a part of my life. I always somehow imagined my life would be dialysis. That is not the case today. Of course, it is not always easy. The demands are always there, whether I feel well or not. But the person who gives me hope is my daughter Olivia. On the days that I am really tired, I think back to the time that she and I were relying on each other; she in the NICU and me starting dialysis, and I realize that today is no different—we are still counting on each other.
Mike’s Story Seven days after delivering our beautiful daughter Olivia, my wife learned the news that she had lost all function in her kidneys and would be subject to a life of dialysis treatments. The news was particularly hard for us to receive, since it came on Christmas Day. However, since that time my wife has soldiered on and impresses Olivia and me t Mike, Olivia and Hilary Heenan at the
2009 Give the Gift of Life Walk in Hamilton
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PERSONAL STORY
Celebrating a Quarter Century of Progress by Stacey Scott
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reparations are well under way for The Kidney Foundation’s Sarnia-Lambton Chapter’s 25th Anniversary Dinner. It will take place on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at the Quality Inn and will feature the popular four piece group, the Johnny Bond Big Band. The 25th anniversary is a special milestone for the Sarnia-Lambton Chapter. Originating from the London, Ontario Chapter, the Sarnia-Lambton Chapter was established in 1985 by founding President Greg Robbins and volunteer Jean Clark in an effort to bring services and awareness of kidney disease closer to the community. In 1991 the innovative and much needed Ride Program was launched. Sarnia and Lambton County dialysis patients travel to London for nephrology appointments and dialysis and many in the community lacked the necessary resources to make the frequent trips, so the Foundation developed a van shuttle program to transport patients from the area to London to receive vital treatment and care. The shuttle service continues to operate and has become an essential part of the Foundation’s services offered to the Sarnia community. Highlights for the landmark anniversary celebration will include dinner, music and volunteer recognition. Special guests will include past Chapter Presidents and Dr. Joaquin Madrenas, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and Medicine at the University of Western Ontario, and a scientist based at the Robarts Research Institute. Join us in celebrating our outstanding volunteers and the ever expanding successful history of the Chapter. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.kidney.on.ca or call 519-3443462.
every day with her courage and heroism. Despite the rigours that come with hemodialysis treatments three times a week, she provides hope to Olivia and me every day by being the greatest mother and wife anyone could ask for. Her enthusiasm for life and family cheer us up when all of us are down, consoles us when we are sad, and makes us laugh when we all need a chuckle. In addition to our family, she has helped many others by raising more than $12,000 for the Give the Gift of Life Walk over the past four years and speaks about kidney disease at local schools. To us Hilary is hope, and we love her so.
Visit www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope for information about this year’s Stories of Hope Campaign. The Stories of Hope Program 2010 is suppored by an unrestricted educational grant from Shire Canada.
Lorraine Knight and Ross Glenn promote the work of The Kidney Foundation at a mall display in the mid-1980s.
The Kidney Foundation of Canada thanks you for your support. The personal contact information that we have on file for you is used for the purpose of sending you this publication. From time to time we may use your contact information to keep you informed of other activities, events and/or fundraising opportunities in support of the Foundation. Should you, at any time, wish to be removed from any of these lists, kindly check below and mail this back to The Kidney Foundation of Canada, 1599 Hurontario St., Ste. 201, Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1, or contact us via email at stacey.scott@kidney.ca. Please allow up to 30 business days to update our records. q Please take my name off the contact list for this newsletter. q I do not want my name to appear on The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s other contact lists. Indicate your name and address as it appears on the mailing label or include the mailing label with your request. _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ If you have any questions or need more information about how the Foundation respects your privacy, email us at privacy@kidney.ca, Attention: Chief Privacy Officer.
Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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COVER STORY
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COVER STORY
2009 Medal for Research Excellence awarded to Dr. Susan E. Quaggin “Dr. Sue Quaggin is a central figure in the Canadian and international nephrology communities, an outstanding basic scientist, a patient-centered clinical investigator, and an overall ‘ambassador of the kidney’.” – Dr. Brendan Barrett, Scientific Co-Chair of
The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Research Council
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View Dr. Quaggin’s acceptance video on the research page at www.kidney.ca.
r. Susan E. Quaggin has been awarded The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s 2009 Medal for Research Excellence for exceptional work that has extensively improved the lives of people living with kidney disease. Following her post-doctoral training at Yale University, Dr. Quaggin embarked on a study that led to a landmark discovery: the podocyte. This cell is vital to developing healthy kidneys, hearts and lungs. Podocytes help form the glomeruli (the kidney’s filtration barrier) that remove excess fluids and wastes. Their discovery and study is fundamental to understanding kidney physiology and disease states. Her basic research findings have also led to an exponential increase in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie common kidney diseases such as diabetic nephropathy and nephrotic syndrome. She is currently studying glomerulosclerosis, a condition caused by diabetes. Glomerulosclerosis results in the scarring of the glomeruli and may lead to kidney disease. As a clinician-investigator, Dr. Quaggin conducts meaningful translational research at its best. For instance, she found that VEGF inhibitors, widely used as anti-cancer agents, target and harm the kidney. She takes a real-life approach to her clinical practice at St. Michael’s Hospital. Through her observations and work with patients, she develops research questions of major importance which are then studied in her lab. The findings help provide new explanations for poorly understood disease processes and offer the potential for new therapies. Learning of her nomination for this award, Dr. Quaggin commented, “It’s a very exciting time for kidney research. There have been incredible advances throughout the world. I’m very optimistic that in the next decade we’re going to see some great advances in treatments for our patients.” Today, Dr. Quaggin runs her own laboratory at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto where she performs groundbreaking work. Topflight people are drawn to work with her: she has recruited and trained over three dozen outstanding graduate students and post-doctoral fellows from across Canada and around the world. And that number is steadily growing. “Sue Quaggin is an extensively published, accomplished and talented young scientist in the flourishing phase of her career,” notes Dr. Andras Kapus, associate professor at the research institute of St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. “She has rendered immense service to the field of nephrology and to people with kidney disease. We look forward to what she will achieve in the years to come.’’ Each year The Kidney Foundation of Canada awards The Medal for Research Excellence to honour a Canadian researcher whose work is recognized by their peers for having improved the treatment and care of people living with kidney disease and related conditions. Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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MEDICAL RESEARCH
It’s about being patient-oriented
Photo Credit: istock.com
For 45 years, The Kidney Foundation of Canada has been funding research that is both relevant and vital to the kidney community in one pivotal facet: it helps to reduce the burden of kidney disease.
by Irene Aguzzi
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here are four types of research, all of them funded by the Foundation and of value to the person with kidney disease. In this article, we focus on one particular type of research: clinical. Clinical research combines discoveries from the basic science laboratory with the observations and insights of clinicians— those persons with a health profession designation such as a doctor or nurse who work directly with individuals affected by disease. It requires human subjects, and its focus is on the health of individuals in a clinical setting rather than on the health care system. Dr. Amit Garg is a practicing nephrologist. He believes that conducting research and taking care of patients go hand in hand: “By seeing patients, you understand what needs to be studied to improve things. By doing research, you find new ways to provide better patient care, and you’re better equipped to move new knowledge into action.” Being able to apply knowledge gained in one setting to another is also known as
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translational research. “My field of study is called translational physiology,” explains Dr. David Cherney, a graduate of the Foundation’s Kidney Research Scientist Core Education and National Training (KRESCENT) program founded in 2005. “I take an area that’s been studied in laboratories and translate it to the human level. The research that I do will help identify people who are at risk for kidney disease early in the course of diabetes, the major cause of end-stage renal disease.” “Well-trained and appropriately supported clinician-researchers or investigators are vital to the national health research endeavour,” says Mr. Wim Wolfs, Director of The Kidney Foundation’s National Research Program. “These individuals work at connecting the dots between biomedical and clinical research, and between clinical research and health systems/policy and population health research. They cross easily from one type of research to another. And their regular contact with patients or health clients allows them to generate the questions which guide relevant research
in these other areas. It also helps them to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of discoveries made in other streams of health research.’’ Dr. Sue Quaggin, this year’s winner of the Foundation’s Medal for Research Excellence, (see cover story, page 6) is an exemplary Canadian clinician-investigator. Her work with patients has helped develop questions of practical importance. She has also discovered that certain anticancer agents specifically harm the kidneys. Her findings frequently form the basis for new therapies. The Kidney Foundation of Canada invests in clinical research because it recognizes its valuable role in finding ways to prevent, detect or manage kidney disease and related issues such as bone fractures, heart disease, diabetes, dialysis, and treatment compliance. For more information on the research funded by the Foundation or featured in the newest issue of Let’s Talk Research, we invite you to visit the research section at www.kidney.ca.
FUNDRAISING
Band Against Kidney Disease Ottawa goes country by boot-stomping kidney disease by Stacey Scott
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ut on your favourite pair of Levis and make sure your cowboy boots are spit-shined. Ottawa is going country for Band Against Kidney Disease! Join us for the inaugural Band Against Kidney Disease concert and silent auction at Greenfield’s Pub and Eatery on Saturday, April 10, 2010. The event will feature “Canada’s Rockin’ Country Band” and local Ottawa favourite, Ambush, famous for their live shows and large fan base. “Ambush is looking forward to a great event,” said Mark McDonell, lead singer and founder of Ambush. “We know many families that have been affected by kidney disease and want to help make a difference for even just one person with funds raised at the event.” This year’s theme for Band Against Kidney Disease is Boot-Stomping Kidney Disease, which is a perfect sentiment to event organizer Jennie-Lee Kritsch. Jennie-Lee was diagnosed 16 years ago with polycystic kidney disease and discovered that only two percent of her kidneys were functioning. In August, 1994 she received a kidney transplant and has since
been a strong advocate for organ donation and kidney health. By combining her love of music along with her passion for organ donation awareness, Band Against Kidney Disease was created. Jennie-Lee, along with her friends, is ready to take on a new challenge of organizing the unique fundraising event. “I thought a concert would be a fun way to raise awareness of kidney disease, The Kidney Foundation of Canada and the importance of organ donation,” said Jennie-Lee. When it came time to decide on a headlining act, the choice was easy—her favourite band, Ambush. “When our friend Jennie-Lee approached us with the idea for this event, we said ‘Let’s make it happen!’” commented Mark. “She is a true survivor and it’s her story and passion for the Foundation that really has Ambush doing whatever we can to make the event a night to remember. Our goal also is for us to hold this event annually, so let’s kick it off in 2010 with a bang!”
So dust off your 10-gallon hat and join us for an evening full of music, entertainment and fun. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities for this fun-filled evening, contact Jennie-Lee Kritsch at 613-293-9669 or email bandagainstkidneydisease@gmail. com. For more information about The Kidney Foundation of Canada, visit www.kidney. on.ca or call 1-800-724-9953.
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FUNDRAISING
Are you up for a challenge? How about sparing a dollar? Karl Enns wants to know. by Maxime Gallant (NC)—At a first glance, he may look like just another ordinary guy; and he’ll probably maintain that he is. But for some, the ‘K’ in Karl stands for more than just his first name. This man is committed to kidney: kidney health, kidney canvassing, even kidney recipes! The Kidney Foundation called him out of the blue when he moved to his new neighbourhood over 10 years ago and asked him to canvass on their behalf. The challenge—which he took—has done him and many others a lot of good. “When canvassers go out, they average a dollar a household,” says Karl. “A buddy of mine gets $30 to 35 each year.” He chuckles, recalling that he started by saying to himself, “Well, I gotta beat $35.” So what does he do to meet the challenge? “I put out a blurb to the people on our street in February letting them know March is Kidney Foundation month. I always tell them a little bit about kidney disease, or give them a renal recipe, so they know what I’m canvassing for. The first year, our street raised $200,” says Karl. At the end of March, he writes an encouraging note and lets his street know how many dollars they’ve raised. He writes them again during the holidays. “So far, since I’ve been doing it, our street has raised $5,784 in 11 years. We’re pretty proud,” says Karl. “And The Kidney Foundation hasn’t found a street that raises as much money as we do, so we sort of toot our horns and say, hey, we’re champions. Not that anyone has ever tried to compete against us, that we know of…” The money raised by this kidney champion is used to fund vital research and services. For instance, The Kidney Foundation and its partners have developed programs that facilitate living organ donation. Why is this important? Because more than 70 percent of the thousands of Canadians waiting for an organ transplant are in need of a kidney, but the wait can be as long as 10 years. This means that some of those waiting will not make it through 2010, let alone the decade. These are people in your neighbourhood, and if everyone in that neighbourhood spared a dollar—or took time to canvass for kidney—more lives could be saved. Those interested in canvassing for kidney can sign up by contacting the Branch or Chapter in their area, listed at www.kidney.ca/canvasskidney, or by calling 1-800-387-4474 Ext. 4962 to get the office number in their region. You don’t have to be directly affected by kidney disease to canvass for the cause, but you may want to consider yourself a champion. – www.newscanada.com
Karl Enns is a champion canvasser for The Kidney Foundation of Canada in London, Ontario
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1-866-788-2277 • kidney.on.ca
FUNDRAISING
Cohen & Cohen
Photo credit: Stacey Scott
Celebrating our partners in success Partnerships like the one being built with Cohen & Cohen have become an integral part of the success to this fundraising initiative. by Stacey Scott
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ttawa-based Cohen & Cohen is a division of the American Iron and Metal Company, an industry leader in metals recycling, specializing in the recovery and recycling of scrap metal by-products and then turning them into valuable, reusable raw materials. The success of Cohen & Cohen, and its parent company American Iron and Metal, is directly linked to their comprehensive transportation system, state-of-the-art equipment, modern facilities and leading edge laboratories. This, combined with a strong commitment to preserving a clean and safe environment, is a proven recipe for success. By integrating the daily operations of Cohen & Cohen and The Kidney Foundation’s Kidney Car program, the results have truly been remarkable. “We are able to provide a service to the community that not only raises money but also provides the area with an outlet to have their end-of-life vehicles dismantled in the utmost environmentally responsible way,” says Adam Gamwell, Ontario Kidney Car Program Coordinator. Since partnering with Cohen & Cohen in the spring of 2009, the already well-received Kidney Car program has seen a dramatic increase in the number of vehicles donated, particularly by the Ottawa community. Proceeds from the Kidney Car program fund a variety of initiatives, including groundbreaking medical research, programs and community outreach. “It is a phenomenal program and the partnership is working well,” says Walter Griesseier, President of Cohen & Cohen. “It has great potential and everyone benefits.” Walter credits his team of 25 dedicated employees in the Ottawa area, including Mike McNally, a knowledgeable operational manager, and Andy Cook, the charismatic tow truck driver who is often the face of the Kidney Car program. Because of this dynamic team, Cohen & Cohen provides unmatched quality, service and value to The Kidney Foundation of Canada.
About the Kidney Car Program
Pictured are Adam Gamwell, Kidney Car Program Coordinator (left), and Andy Cook, tow truck driver for Cohen & Cohen.
The Kidney Car program, entering its 16th year of operation, is a fundraising initiative of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. People are invited to donate their old or unwanted vehicles to the Foundation. The vehicles are towed free of charge and recycled, or resold, and the donor receives a valuable tax receipt for the vehicle. Vehicles that are not resold are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner: the car as well as the tires, battery and oil are recycled. It’s an easy way to dispose of an unwanted vehicle while helping a good cause. To learn more about the Kidney Car program, call 1-866-788-2277 (CARS) today or visit our website at www.kidney.on.ca. Be sure to have on hand the serial number of the vehicle you wish to donate when you call the Kidney Car hotline. Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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FUNDRAISING WORKING TOGETHER
Photo credit: Leon Lau
Taking the lead in Scarborough Collaboration is key when serving the needs of patients.
by Trish Reynolds
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n ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—so the old saying goes—and when speaking about chronic kidney disease (CKD), we know that prevention and early detection is key to long-lasting kidney health. That’s why The Kidney Foundation is a proud partner of the Scarborough Kidney Health Initiative. The Central East Local Health Integration Network (CELHIN) identified diabetes and kidney disease as priority focus areas for more service and program development. Proposed by Carefirst Seniors and Community Services Association, The Kidney Foundation of Canada and Scarborough Regional Dialysis Program then joined forces to form its integrated team-based collaborative, the Scarborough Kidney Health Initiative. In 2007 the project was endorsed by the CELHIN and awarded three years of funding to develop the kidney disease identification, intervention and outreach initiative. Scarborough, Ontario is home to a large immigrant population. Many, because of their ethnic origins are at a higher risk of developing CKD. Through kidney health screenings, workshops
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and community awareness events, the Scarborough Kidney Health Initiative raises community awareness about kidney disease and helps connect people with the resources they need to navigate through our healthcare system. “Prevention and early detection is very important. We know that the progression of kidney disease can be dramatically slowed if caught early enough. If we can pair that with the education and support in navigating through our health care system, we can help reduce the burden of kidney disease,” said Leon Lau, Program Coordinator, The Kidney Foundation of Canada. The project aims to help with identification through screening those at risk of developing CKD, and reaches out to those who have limited access to health care because of language and other social economic limitations. “We’ve learned so much from this project,” said Gail Chan, Project Coordinator. “In order to gain credibility and trust from the clients, it’s important to conduct the workshops and screening in their own languages. While it’s not always possible to do
BUILDING A FOUNDATION
so due to the vastly diverse nature of the community, by involving the agencies and volunteers serving the different ethnic groups, we can make a difference in supporting those at risk of developing kidney disease.” “Certain ethnic groups are at a higher risk because of the greater incidence of diabetes and high blood pressure. These include people of Aboriginal, Asian, South Asian, Pacific Island, African/Caribbean and Hispanic origin. By reaching out to these groups and providing information and services in their native languages, we are reaching out to those at risk before it is too late,” said Lau. The innovation and success of this project has not gone unnoticed. The project team members were thrilled when the Scarborough Kidney Health Initiative was named one of the three finalists at the Celebrating Innovations in Health Care Expo 2009—a showcase of some of the leading initiatives underway in support of Ontario’s healthcare system. For more information about the Scarborough Kidney Health Initiative, call 416-502-2323 Ext. 6274.
Project Highlights • • • • • •
Over 3,000 people have been screened for chronic kidney disease 35 percent were identified with risk factors for CKD and other chronic disease conditions 19 percent of those with risk factors had returned to consult their family doctor Over 90 Chronic Kidney Disease workshops have been provided—translation is available when needed. Approximately 9,000 pieces of kidney health education materials have been distributed The Foundation’s Am I at Risk? booklet has been translated into Chinese, Tamil and Punjabi.
Honouring Southwestern Ontario’s Community Champions
Renal professionals can make all the difference in the world to kidney patients and their families.
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enal professionals do their work skillfully, compassionately and often without public appreciation. The Kidney Foundation of Canada will put the spotlight on a celebrated group of four honorees who are exceptional examples of their respective fields of contribution. The Foundation’s Southwestern Ontario Chapter, along with partner sponsor LEO Pharma, invite you to a wonderful evening of celebration on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 as we pay tribute to Professor of Medicine Dr. Robert Lindsay, research pioneer Dr. Cal Stiller, veteran broadcaster Bill Brady, and well known social worker Doug Parsons. Our honorees will be joined at the event, which will take place at the Lamplighter Inn in London, by event chair Dr. Louise Moist. The evening will give the Foundation an opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of the cutting-edge research being done in the Southwestern Ontario region, and to celebrate some of Canada’s pioneers in the field of nephrology. “The event will give us the opportunity not only to pay tribute to the honorees, but also to raise awareness about the impact kidney disease has on a patient’s life and how the honorees have helped to improve this,” says Dr. Louise Moist, Associate Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology Director, University of Western Ontario and Chair of the event. Corporate sponsors will also have the opportunity to become members of a Nephrology Round Table, which will include key leaders in the field of kidney-related care and research, including Dr. William Clark, Dr. Louise Moist and Dr. Peter Blake. The table, taking place this spring, will serve as a discussion hub where nephrologists and attendees will learn about the latest developments in nephrology through open dialogue. “We feel honored and privileged to be associated with these world leaders in nephrology and to celebrate them,” says Kim Pritchard, Manager of Fund Development for The Kidney Foundation Southwestern Ontario Chapter. “We are thrilled to announce that Heather Hiscox, from the CBC National News has graciously agreed to be our Tribute Dinner Emcee.” “Please join us in celebrating and thanking these outstanding renal professionals who have made major contributions both locally and globally through philanthropy, volunteerism, research and social work.” For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit the News & Events Section at www. kidney.on.ca or call 1-800-667-3597. Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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BUILDING A FOUNDATION
Galabration—
An evening everyone will be talking about Celebrate. Motivate. Educate. This year’s annual Kidney Foundation of Canada gala kicks off the excitement with a new name—Galabration.
We Celebrate...
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alabration, set for Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, will be co-hosted by CBC journalist Jeannie Lee and internationally-renowned researcher Dr. Susan Quaggin. It is our privilege to announce that Mr. John L.N. Bitove, C.M., entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of The Bitove Foundation, has accepted the role of Honorary Chair for Galabration 2010. Dr. Quaggin, recipient of The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s 2009 Medal for Research Excellence, will provide a link to the “Educate” component of our gala evening. To “Celebrate,” we’ll pay tribute to our past Honorary Gala Chairs, many of whom will be in attendance, as we look towards a bright future in kidney research and kidney health education. Past Honorary Gala Chairs include Riva Grinshpan, Margaret Hall, Brian Flood, Donald Cousens, Donald Clayton, Barb and Patrick Keenan, and Senator Vivienne Poy, as well as the late Gabe Tsampalerios and the late Fraser Elliot. The passion of everyone involved in the Foundation, and with Galabration, will “Motivate” you to make a difference in the lives of those living with kidney disease. This year’s auction turns to the elite and unique. Place your bids on a three-night stay in a luxurious two-bedroom suite at the world’s number one hotel—the St. Regis in New York City, courtesy of Michael Higgins from Mother Parker’s Tea. Humbertown Jewellers and Rolex will once again provide exquisite Rolex watches. Watch our website for details on a behind-the-scenes experience with some CBC personalities. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served between 6:00–7:00 p.m., followed by dinner and entertainment. This is an event that will make a difference. For tickets and details, visit www.galabration.ca.
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2009 Honorary Chair Dr. Dimitrios Oreopoulos, FACP, FRCPC, MD, PhD, Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto is best known for his work in developing and promoting peritoneal dialysis as a form of home dialysis. He developed a permanent dialysis catheter and a prosthesis that was useful for temporary dialysis catheter placement. He is currently a researcher at the University Health Network. 2008 Honorary Chair Riva Grinshpan is past-president of the Ontario Board of The Kidney Foundation of Canada and a member of the National Board of Directors. She has been involved for many years as a board member, gala committee member and volunteer. Riva’s philanthropic nature has an infectious effect as she continuously introduces new friends to the Foundation. She is the recipient of numerous Kidney Foundation volunteer leadership awards. 2007 Honorary Chair (the late) Gabe Tsampalieros was chairman and CEO of Second
Cup. In 2006, Gabe’s wife Yolande donated her kidney to him. Gabe was enthusiastic about raising the profiles of The Kidney Foundation’s research initiatives.
2006 Honorary Chair Margaret Hall is the daughter of the late AJ Casson, renowned Canadian Group of Seven artist. Ms. Hall saw her father struggle with kidney disease for six years and how it impacted his family and his friends. Margaret has been a volunteer with the Foundation for many years and is an active member of the Gala committee. 2005 Honorary Chair Brian Flood, partner in Toronto law firm Torys, received a kidney
transplant in 2000 after spending six years on the wait list and on dialysis. Brian spent many years volunteering with the Foundation’s many organ donation awareness related committees and became the first Chairman of Trillium Gift of Life Network’s Board of Directors when it was established in 2002. He is a recipient of The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Mission Award.
2004 Honorary Chairs Donald Cousens and Donald Clayton Donald Cousens is best known as the former mayor of the City of Markham, a position he held for the last 13 years of the 32 years he spent in public office. His friend Donald Clayton donated a kidney to Mr. Cousens in 2002. Their well-publicized story, which highlighted non-related living kidney donation, raised a significant amount of awareness about dialysis and transplant. 2003 Honorary Chairs Patrick and Barbara Keenan are long-standing supporters of the Foundation and, in particular, the Kidney Connect Peer Support Program. Among these philanthropists’ many awards are The Kidney Foundation of Canada Mission Award and the Outstanding Philanthropist Award, granted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2004. 2002 Honorary Chair (the late) R. Fraser Elliott, founder of law firm Stikeman Elliott, was
a philanthropist and lover of the arts. In the late 1990s, he received a successful kidney transplant from a friend who offered the gift of life during a conversation they had on a golf course. He established Chairs in Transplantation Research and Home Dialysis Research at the Toronto General Hospital.
2001 Honorary Chair Senator Vivienne Poy, author, entrepreneur, fashion designer and
historian, was appointed to the Senate in 1998. She is a past Honorary Board Member of The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Central Ontario. In 2008, she donated a kidney to her son, Justin, who has been living with kidney disease since he was a child. Justin is actively involved with The Chinese Renal Association for the Central Ontario Chapter.
WORKING TOGETHER
Tax Tips Every year during tax season, The Kidney Foundation prepares tax tips for patients. Keep the following helpful hints in mind while you are preparing your tax return.
Disability Tax Credit The Disability Tax Credit (T2201) is a non-refundable tax credit that reduces the amount of income tax that may be owed by people with disabilities or the people who support them. The credit will reduce your income tax payable if you qualify. If you have no tax payable, you may transfer the credit to a spouse or other supporting person. We recommend that all dialysis patients apply for the Disability Tax Credit. If you have not applied for the credit in previous years when you were on dialysis, you can request a reassessment of your income taxes for that period. If you receive a transplant you will no longer be eligible for the credit, unless you qualify under a different disability. You may be able to claim the credit for the portion of that tax year that you were still on dialysis. Important Note: The Disability Tax Credit Certificate (T2201) was revised for the 2000 year. A new eligibility category, Life Sustaining Therapy, was added. In Part B under Life Sustaining Therapy, we suggest your doctor answer yes to the question: “Does your patient meet these conditions for life-sustaining therapy?”
and specify the “type of therapy” as kidney dialysis. The doctor may wish to include a letter explaining the diagnosis of End Stage Renal Disease.
Medical Expenses There are many medical expenses that you may have paid for that can be claimed, such as long distance telephone calls to the hospital or doctor, diagnostic procedures, payments to hospitals, prescribed medications, dental services, premiums for private health insurance plans, and ambulances. Out-of-country expenses over and above Provincial coverage may also be included. You must have receipts for all your expenses and you cannot claim anything for which you were reimbursed. You may claim expenses for yourself and your spouse, and subject to some limitations, your dependents.
Transportation and Meals Transportation costs to and from medical treatment can be included as medical expenses if you travel more than 40 kilometres each way. People who travel more than 80 kilometres each way may also be able to claim expenses for food and acWinter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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WORKING TOGETHER commodations. You have the option of choosing a detailed or simplified method to calculate your travel and meal expenses and this is detailed in the Tax Tips package or can be obtained from the Canada Revenue Agency. We recommend you keep accurate records of your mileage and receipts for all of your expenses, and get a letter from your dialysis unit or doctor in case you need to provide proof of the number of trips you made. Sample letters of support are available as part of the Tax Tips package.
Home Dialysis People who have installed a hemodialysis machine may be able to deduct the cost of necessary home renovations. Home dialysis patients may be able to claim a portion of home expenses directly related to dialysis, and a telephone extension in the dialysis room and all calls to a hospital for advice or to obtain repairs. If you use a room in your home to perform dialysis or store dialysis supplies, you may qualify to claim a portion of your housing costs. For example, if you live in a six-room house and use one room as a dialysis room, you may be able to deduct one sixth of the rent and utilities (heat, electricity, water).
Transplants When going for a transplant, you can claim the costs of travel, meals and accommodation for yourself and one person to accompany you. If you had a living donor, and you have reimbursed their expenses, you can also claim the costs of travel, meals, and accommodation for the donor and
one person to accompany the donor. If the donor paid their own expenses, and was not reimbursed, the donor can claim their expenses for meals, travel, and accommodation on their own income tax return. You may also claim for reasonable amounts paid to locate a compatible organ donor to arrange the transplant, including legal fees and insurance premiums, and reasonable traveling costs including board and lodging for the patient, the donor and their respective companions.
New Programs for 2008 and 2009 Taxation Years Registered Disability savings plan (RDSP)
This program, introduced in 2008, helps parents and others save for the long-term financial security of a beneficiary with a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions. The beneficiary must be eligible for the disability amount. Further information is available at: www. cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pbg/tf/t3gr/t3gr-08e.pdf
Information – 2009 [RC4064(E) Rev. 09] contains detailed information on the Disability Tax Credit, Medical Expenses Credit and other deductions for which you may be eligible. The booklets are available from your local tax services office or on the Internet at www.cra-arc.gc.ca or by calling 1-800-959-8281. Additional CRA resources include: • T.I.P.S. (Tax Information Phone Service) – For personal and general tax information by telephone at 1-800-267-6999. • Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, this is a free program with specially trained volunteers who will help you complete your tax return. Click on Community Volunteer Income Tax Program or call 1-800-959-8291.
While we make every effort to be accurate, we recommend that you seek professional tax advice for your individual questions.
Home Renovation Expenses For 2009 only, you can claim an amount for eligible expenses incurred for work performed or goods acquired after January 27, 2009 and before February 1, 2010.
Resources For a complete Tax Tip package, visit our website at www.kidney.on.ca, speak with your Renal Social Worker, or contact Mary Floro-White at 1-800-387-4474, Ext 4974. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) booklet, Medical and Disability-Related
Celebrating the work of our volunteers Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well. ~Voltaire Nominations are now being received for The Kidney Foundation’s Provincial Volunteer Awards. Visit www.kidney.on.ca or contact 1.800.387.4474 ext.4972 for information on how you can nominate someone.
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WORKING TOGETHER
National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week (April 18-25) I treasure the Gift of Life I received.
by Brenda Barham
J
oanna Frketich’s article, “A Hero’s Gift,” in The Hamilton Spectator brought me to tears many times as I read of this family’s ordeal and their most generous gift to the recipients of their son’s organs. About this time of year five years ago, I received a life-saving and life-changing kidney and pancreas transplant. Like the recipient in the article, I too, send letters to my “donor family” several times a year. While these letters are anonymous in nature, what I share with them is very personal. I want them to know how much I respect and am grateful for a brave decision they made, at what must have been a very difficult time. They decided to pay tribute to their daughter’s life by saving mine and the lives of several others. The immensity of their unselfishness and generosity so often overwhelms me—mostly when I am experiencing things that I wouldn’t have, had I not been given “the gift of life.” Things like my son’s engaging grin, my niece’s dance recitals and the sheer joy on my husband’s face as he showed me his scorecard from his best golf game ever. Money can buy many gifts, but nothing as valuable as what this family gave me. I hope your article will encourage people to think of giving “life” in this holiday season and all year long. Sign your donor card and make your wishes known to your family. There are so many people waiting on transplant lists. Sharing your thoughts on organ and tissue donation with your family now will make a difficult decision easier at a critical time. To pay it forward, so to speak, I play a key role in my community promoting organ donation and fundraising for The Kidney Foundation of Canada. I will not forget what it was like to be a dialysis patient, to get “the phone call” from the transplant office. I treasure each moment of the gift I have been given. I live my life healthfully and happily and with the respect it deserves. My donor’s family needs to know that their child’s life continues in a way in my life and because of that, I am a grateful recipient. Submitted to The Hamilton Spectator as a Letter to the Editor and Printed on December 19, 2009.
L to R: Harry Fox, Brenda Barham, John McDermott, Anthony Tirone and Michelle Stewart at a fundraising event at Hamilton Place.
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Ways You Can Make a Difference this National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week (April 18-25)
Encourage five people to learn more about organ donation. Visit www.kidney.on.ca for more information and learn how to add your name to the registry at www.giftoflife.on.ca
Spread a message of organ donation in your faith community. A simple message in your church newsletter or bulletin could help encourage others to have a family discussion about organ donation.
Learn more about The Kidney Foundation’s Ontario Renal Voices Program and how you can facilitate a dialogue about kidney disease and organ donation with your MPP. Visit the Programs and Services pages at www.kidney.on.ca or call Mary Floro-White at 1-800387-4474, Ext. 4974.
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Organize a “Green Day” at your workplace. Encourage your coworkers to wear green during NOTDAW and learn more about organ donation. You can also get involved in a Living Green Ribbon event or organize one in your community; find out more by visiting the Organ Donation section at www.kidney.on.ca.
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Templates will be available soon on the Foundation’s website: kidney.on.ca. Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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BUILDING A FOUNDATION
Paying it forward A kidney transplant nearly 10 years ago gave Jason Kroft a new lease on life. Now he has made a major donation to help others who need the same transformative surgery. by Heidi Westfield
T
he Jason Kroft and Family Fund will help patients who qualify to shoulder the sometimes heavy financial burden of a transplant. “A lot of people suffer from the cost of the drugs, from the time away from work,” he explains. “There wasn’t a tangible project or fund to assist patients following transplants.” Jason, a Toronto corporate lawyer, is donating $50,000 over five years as part of The Kidney Foundation’s New Challenge Campaign – Challenging Limits, Changing Lives. A portion of the fund will be available every year for patient assistance. The remainder will be saved as an ongoing endowment, to help the fund grow over time. “I was fortunate to be able to personally meet the financial burdens, and have a workplace that allowed me all the time I needed to recover,” he says. “If I was self-employed, if I had limited insurance, if I had new expenses I couldn’t cover, that would have been a different experience.” Jason was diagnosed with kidney disease as a young child. He and his doctor worked
We believe that Canada has what it takes to lead the momentum toward a future without kidney disease. At this juncture, The Kidney Foundation has a bold new vision to stake out new territory in the still largely uncharted field of kidney disease research and education worldwide. Building on a strong foundation as one of the leading organizations of its kind in the world, The Kidney Foundation aspires to launch the largest health charity fundraising campaign in kidney health and diseases in Canadian history—a $15 million plan to advance a new phase of kidney research and prevention. What? The Kidney Foundation of Canada is embarking on the largest fundraising campaign in its history—$15 million—to increase investments in research and to launch an innovative screening program for chronic kidney disease. Why? Kidney disease is on the rise, with an estimated 2 million Canadians already affected or at risk. As the population ages and as diseases like diabetes increase, this number could well double within the next decade. The cost of managing dialysis or organ transplantation for patients who progress to end-stage renal disease could cripple the Canadian healthcare system. Where? The Kidney Foundation of Canada, through its essential suite of core programs, has helped position this country as an international leader in the field of kidney care (nephrology) and research. Canada is ideally poised to lead a “great leap forward” in designing new models to facilitate early diagnosis, improve patient support services, and in funding innovative research that will shape the field of kidney and transplantation research in the years to come. When? Kidney disease research, nephrology and transplantation are very young fields—less than 50 years old. Investors in the Challenging Limits, Changing Lives Campaign will be pioneers in a domain that is truly at the frontier of medicine and that stands to have enormous global impact, not only in the field of kidney disease, but in a variety of related and supporting fields. Who? Funding from The Kidney Foundation of Canada has contributed significantly to the development of a robust cluster of Canadian kidney researchers, and helped to create a unique environment for innovative collaboration with an unprecedented potential to improve the lives of people affected by kidney disease. For more information, contact Susan Storey, Senior Director of Development, at 1-800-387-4474, Ext. 4960.
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BUILDING A FOUNDATION to push off its progression as long as possible with medication and diet. Still, as he got older, the disease began to take hold; he didn’t have as much energy, and started dropping out of activities he thought would be too taxing. Emotionally, it was hard too. He faced an uncertain future: “I was a teenager wondering if I would have a career. Would I be on debilitating dialysis? Would I be able to have an active life?” His mother began a series of tests in 1999 to see if she was a match to donate a kidney. It was becoming increasingly clear that he would need a transplant. Jason’s fears about the effect on his mother’s health were eased by the vigorous qualification process. “It wasn’t like they were going to place her at risk to make me feel better,” Jason says. That is something Kroft would like other potential donors to understand. “Medical professionalism and their code of ethics is such that my mom felt confident at the end of the battery of tests because she was studied closely, and everyone involved knew that if she was going to give a kidney she would do well.” His transplant was scheduled for the fall of 2000. It was a success. “In the hospital recovery room I looked over at my mother. She was fine; I was feeling better. I felt a sense of relief.” It was a turning point. “I felt I had more energy, I looked like a vibrant healthy person,” he says. “I was able to get a second chance to live healthy and with less burden.” After the transplant, with much of the uncertainty around his health gone, decisions that he had held off on became easier to make. Jason and his wife bought a house and had their first child. They now have two young daughters and a happy and busy life. He is grateful to his mother for her loving gift and to the health care professionals who care for him. Kroft got involved with The Kidney Foundation of Canada, holding several key volunteer leadership positions. He sees his donation, during the early stages of The New Challenge Campaign, as both a tangible way to help and a way to reach out to potential donors. “I think it is important for people to see that The Kidney Foundation is critical to people’s lives and whatever your ability, that you think carefully about helping this campaign and helping the lives of future patients.” Jason hopes, by telling his story, that others touched by the Foundation’s work will be encouraged to join the campaign, and help in any way they can.
World Kidney Day raises awareness during Kidney Health Month As thousands of volunteers circulate their neighbourhoods throughout the month of March, Kidney Health Month, raising funds to support the work of The Kidney Foundation, —the massive community fundraising campaign—also succeeds in raising awareness about the importance of kidney health. In addition to the daily buzz created by 18,000 March Drive volunteers, public awareness is heightened through World Kidney Day public awareness activities. World Kidney Day is a global health awareness campaign that occurs annually on the second Thursday of March. The fifth annual World Kidney Day on March 11, 2010 will focus on diabetes, the most common cause of kidney failure. Over 50 percent of people with diabetes experience early signs of kidney damage. Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can slow or halt progression. Being wellinformed and proactive is essential to your health. Your kidneys play an important role in your overall health. Effective management through exercise, diet and medication can help slow the progression of kidney disease. To find out whether you are at risk for kidney disease, how to manage diabetes, or about awareness events taking place in your region, visit The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s website at www.kidney.ca. The World Kidney Day website www.worldkidneyday.org has a risk assessment quiz and downloadable World Kidney Day icons for your email.
Key objectives for World Kidney Day:
• Raise awareness about our “amazing kidneys” • Highlight that diabetes and high blood pressure are key risk factors for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) • Encourage systematic screening of all patients with diabetes and hypertension for CKD • Encourage preventive behaviours • Educate all medical professionals about their key role in detecting and reducing the risk of CKD, particularly in high risk populations • Stress the important role of local and national health authorities in controlling the CKD epidemic. Health authorities worldwide will have to deal with high and escalating costs if no action is taken to treat the growing number of people with CKD. On World Kidney Day all governments are encouraged to take action and invest in further kidney screening.
With files from NewsCanada and WorldKidneyDay.org
Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS
Community Highlights Bowling a Strike Against Kidney Disease t Bowl ’09 was a tremendous success raising more than $60,000 to support people living with kidney disease. Thank you for your support. We would like to acknowledge our top three fundraisers: Lynn Knudsen – $9,200; Riva Grinshpan – $8,050 and Barry Sklar – $6,000. Pictured are event Chair Harvey Lipman with wife Sharon and their teams The Holy Bowlers.
Benefit held for Late Musician in Support of Kidney Research u A benefit was held in October in honour of Gilbert Wilson, a skilled Brockville musician who died in 2009 following a long battle with kidney disease. Always performing quietly in the background, Gilbert Wilson was part of a prominent area musical family and continued to perform in public almost up until the time of his death. The tribute to Wilson was organized by his long-time friend and fellow performer Matt Hayes. Hayes, who has appeared at numerous public performances with Wilson over four decades, felt it was appropriate to have the proceeds from the tribute support kidney research. The Kingston Chapter gratefully acknowledges this special donation of $1,238.57. Pictured at right from one of their previous shows, left to right are: Al Torrance; Neil Wilson; Tom Wilson; George Elliott and Gilbert Wilson.
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COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS
In Brief Italian Night
Mark your calendars for the 26th Annual Italian Night. The hallmark event for the Italian community and Kidney Foundation supporters in Ottawa is set for March 13, 2010. To date, this event has raised a total of more than $700,000 to support the Foundation’s program and research initiatives. Visit the News & Events section at www. kidney.on.ca for more details.
Smile Cookies support the Kidney Foundation p Tim Horton’s in Strathroy selected The Kidney Foundation as the recipient charity of the proceeds. One hundred percent of the sales of smile cookies for one week were donated to The Kidney Foundation, resulting in a donation of $4,900. Kidney Foundation representatives Dr. Bill Clark (second from right) and Kim Pritchard (right) were on hand to help launch the fundraiser.
Uncork for the Cure u Norm Marcoux shows off a beautiful donated wine and cheese cake for the cake auction at Windsor’s ‘Uncork for the Cure.’ The inaugural event was held in October at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery.
Ruby Anniversary celebration raises funds for The Kidney Foundation
Canadian Transplant Games
The Canadian Transplant Games are an Olympic-style athletic competition for recipients of life-saving organ transplants. The next games will take place in Quebec City, August 9-14, 2010. The games demonstrate the success of organ donation by showing that a healthy, active lifestyle is possible after transplantation. They also encourage the general public to discuss organ donation with their families. Participants range in age from 6 to 76, and have wide variety of skills and athletic ability. All transplant recipients are encouraged to attend. Athlete registration material will be available online soon. Click on the story about the games which is posted at www. organ-donation-works.org, the Canadian Transplant Association website. Or you can also visit a special games website at www. jeuxcanadiensdesgreffes.ca where information is available in French and English. If you wish to attend the games as a volunteer, you can obtain information by emailing benevoles@mc2.ulaval.ca.
t Madhu and Harnam Kakkar celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on September 18, 2009. In lieu of gifts they asked their guests to make donations to The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Approximately $20,000 was raised to support research and programs for people living with kidney disease. Madhu and Harnam’s daughterin-law, Dr. Rita Suri, is a prominent nephrologist in the London community. Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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BUILDING A FOUNDATION
Dialysis patients: How to weather winter storms
Winter weather, an unpredictable mix of freezing temperatures and heavy precipitation, can cause power outages and poor driving conditions which may interfere with your ability to make it to your regular dialysis treatment schedules. Make a plan for bad weather and consider the following: • Keep your emergency phone numbers handy • Talk to your doctor or dialysis team and family about your plan—what should you do? • Keep emergency supplies on hand, such as any needed medications • If you dialyze at a clinic or at the hospital, arrange for back-up transportation with a friend, neighbour or family member • If you dialyze at home and lose power, follow the directions given to you by the training staff • If you are a diabetic, ask your doctors how to adjust your insulin dosage during winter storm emergencies
For more details about these events and future happenings in your community, call The Kidney Foundation office nearest to you (see p. 2), or visit www.kidney.on.ca.
February
13 Pancake Breakfast/March Drive Kick-off, Kingston 17 Kidney Connect Support Group Meeting, Kitchener 17 Kidney Patient and Family Peer Support Coffee Club, Oshawa 26 Pasta Fest, Sarnia 28 Chinese New Year Celebration, Scarborough
Source: Reuters, January 2009; Fresenius Medical Care
March
Get Kidney Living via email Did you know you can now receive Kidney Living by email? You’ll receive the same great content as the print version and you’ll get it a few days earlier. Receiving this newsletter electronically also assures the Foundation can keep costs low by decreasing printing and postage expenses. To change your subscription to an email version, simply send your name, current mailing address, telephone number and email address to stacey.scott@ kidney.ca. Please put Change Kidney Living Subscription in the subject line.
e-newsletter
Get Kidney Foundation news direct to your inbox by registering for our free monthly e-newsletter today. Receive the latest news and information aimed at people living with kidney disease, their families and supporters. Find out about how the Foundation can help you, what you can do to support kidney patients, and what’s happening with kidney research in Canada. You’ll also receive regular e-alerts updating you about fundraising events, advocacy campaigns, new Kidney Foundation merchandise, and much more. Register today—visit www.kidney.on.ca and click on the “e-news” button.
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Kidney Health Month March Drive, a door-to-door national fundraising campaign is held March 1-31. Wendy’s Restaurant Promotion Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie franchises will once again support The Kidney Foundation of Canada 6 Marvin Valensky Memorial Stick Spiel, Kingston 11 World Kidney Day 13 Annual Italian Night Dinner, Ottawa 17 Kidney Patient and Family Peer Support Coffee Club, Oshawa 23 Kidney Connect Peer Support Group Meeting, Kitchener 27 Fishing Derby, Thunder Bay
April
7 Galabration, Toronto 10 8th Annual Kazman Dinner and Dance, Brampton 10 Band Against Kidney Disease, Ottawa 13 Hamilton and District Chapter Annual Meeting and Volunteer Celebration 14 Pasta Fest, Thunder Bay National Organ Donation Awareness Week (NOTDAW) The Kidney Foundation of Canada marks NOTDAW with Living Green Ribbon events throughout the province during the week of April 1825.
BUILDING A FOUNDATION
2010 Membership Application and Renewal Form Mail your completed form to your local Kidney Foundation office. See p. 21 for a complete office listing.
Count me in! I want to support the work of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Please print clearly
Name _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________ Prov _____________ Postal Code ____________________________ Phone _______________________________________ Email __________________________________________________ $10 Voting Membership + $___________ Donation = $___________ total. All donations are gratefully accepted. Your contribution will help us provide needed services in your community. Method of Payment: q Cheque
q Visa
q Mastercard
Credit card # _____________/_______________/____________/____________
Expiry_________/__________
Signature ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Please complete the following information as we are very interested in developing a profile of our membership. The information will be held in confidence. q I have kidney disease q I am on dialysis q I have a kidney transplant q I do not have kidney disease q I am related to someone who has kidney disease q I am a healthcare professional q I am interested in the work of the Foundation I am q 17 or under q 18 to 29 q 30 to 44 q 45 to 59 q 60 to 75 q 76+
www.kidney.on.ca
20 Windsor and District Annual Chapter Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation 21 Kidney Connect Peer Support Group, Kitchener 21 Kidney Patient and Family Peer Support Coffee Club, Oshawa 22 Volunteer Appreciation Event, Thunder Bay 22 Annual Chapter Meeting, Kingston 24 Patient Symposium, Windsor 25 Sarnia-Lambton Chapter’s 25th Anniversary Celebration 28 Tribute Dinner, London
May 5
Central Ontario Chapter Annual Volunteer Celebration (Toronto) 13 Pasta and Pizza Fest, Windsor 15 Ontario Branch Annual General Meeting. Details will be posted to the
Ontario website. 15 BBQ at Ferrera Concrete, Sarnia 18 Kidney Connect Peer Support Group, Kitchener 19 Kidney Patient and Family Peer Support Coffee Club, Oshawa 25 Golf Challenge 2009, London 29 Night at the Races, Sarnia
June
11 Christine LaBrasceur Memorial Golf Classic, Sarnia 16 Kidney Connect Peer Support Group Meeting, Kitchener 16 Kidney Patient and Family Peer Support Coffee Club, Oshawa 23 Kingston Golf Tournament 26 Beach Jam Volleyball Tournament, Windsor
July
9-11 Festival Epicure, Windsor 13 Kazman Classic Golf Tournament, Glen Abbey, Oakville 21 Golf Classic, Hosted by the Niagara Unit and Hamilton District Chapter, Niagara
September
Annual walkathons held in more than 20 communities in Ontario. You, your family and friends can join us for a wonderful fall walk, while raising funds and awareness about kidney disease. Online fundraising makes it easy. Visit News & Events at kidney. on.ca for more information.
Winter 2010 / Kidney Living /
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Join us in a community near you for our annual Give the Gift of Life Walks this September. For more information about starting a walk in your community, contact Daniela Piotrowski at kidneywalk@kidney.ca. Belleville Blind River Brantford Cornwall Guelph Hamilton Iroquois Falls Kingston Kitchener London Mississauga North Bay Orangeville Ottawa Pembroke Renfrew St. Catharines Sarnia Sault Ste. Marie South Porcupine Strathroy Thunder Bay Toronto Windsor-Essex County York Region
Register online soon at www.kidney.ca/ontariowalk In communities across the province this fall. Register online: kidney.ca/ontariowalk
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Postmaster: Please return undeliverable Canadian addresses to The Kidney Foundation of Canada, 1599 Hurontario St., Ste. 201, Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1