QEII Times - Fall 2021 by SaltWire Network

SHINING A LIGHT ON THE QEII HEALTH SCIENCES CENTRE, ITS STAFF, VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS

FALL 2021

A QEII FOUNDATION PUBLICATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE CHRONICLE HERALD

YOUR QEII Teddy bears a heartfelt gift after loss

Nurses shift into Canadian care via QEII bursary

QEII care sees Halifax man through COVID-19

(L to R): Robert, Nicole, Mitchell and Gwen Murray celebrate the day Mitchell returned home after three months at the QEII. Mitchell acquired a traumatic brain injury in a car crash in December 2020. Contributed

RESEARCH & INNOVATION QEII looks to future with surgical robotics

“I wake up every day thankful I’m still alive” Sackville family’s QEII journey: from trauma care to home By Jenn Coleman-Ford

New tech speeds up donor-recipient matching

Clinical study helps match cardiology treatments, patients 12

ALSO Small gesture, big impact

Gift cards help patients cope with costs Page 5

Breaking new ground

New QEII tech tailors treatment for neuroendocrine cancer Page 8-9

On a dark and dreary night in early December 2020, Mitchell Murray’s life, along with the lives of his family members, changed when his car left the road. Mitchell doesn’t remember much about his accident, but his family will never forget. “It was around midnight when we received the call from the QEII,” says Robert Murray, Mitchell’s father. “We were told that Mitchell suffered some traumatic injuries and that it was very important that we get to the QEII as soon as possible.” Robert and his wife Gwen were living every parents’ worst nightmare. When they arrived at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, they were whisked away to a private room in the Charles V. Keating Emergency and Trauma Centre, where they received updates on Mitchell’s condition over several hours. While Mitchell was unconscious and receiving trauma care for a brain injury, the family was told the survival rate was very low. “It doesn’t get more real than that,” says Robert. Several hours later, Mitchell was admitted to the QEII’s intensive care unit (ICU) for continued critical care from the trauma ICU team and Dr. Robert Green, critical care physician and senior medical director for the trauma program.

The QEII is home to the even more — that was even more waking up in the hospital and level one ICU for adult trauma positive and hopeful,” says Gwen. taking things day by day. He’s patients in Nova Scotia. The For nine days, the family watched grateful for the team who cared trauma ICU team includes a the professionalism of Dr. Green for him along the way. number of specialized care and the ICU team as Mitchell’s “I felt comforted by the people providers like physicians, condition continued to improve. around me,” he says. “I’ve had surgeons, nurses, respiratory Mitchell was then released to the nothing but support and help therapists, physiotherapists and intermediate care unit (IMCU) from all the people involved.” pharmacists, who all have the to continue his journey. Dr. Green is ecstatic, knowing expertise, experience and skill With a lot of determination, how well Mitchell is doing now. to care for multi-system injury Mitchell worked with “It’s remarkable,” says trauma patients. physiotherapists, occupational Dr. Green. “It always teaches me “We provide all the care that's therapists and recreational something and humbles me that needed for both the patient and therapists daily. Two weeks later, we can help a patient survive and the patient's family, as best as in early January 2021, Mitchell recover from such a devastating possible,” says Dr. Green. “Our progressed enough to move to the injury. I’m so happy for Mitchell co-ordinated team follows patients’ QEII’s Rehabilitation and Arthritis and his family and proud of our Centre. There, he worked on team as well.” vital signs on a minute-to-minute Today, nearly a year after the basis and we respond accordingly.” re-learning life activities like accident, Mitchell is doing well and As the trauma ICU team walking and regaining his speech. continues his rehabilitation with worked steadily over the next “We watched his progression the QEII’s outreach team. He’s several hours, which turned into every day and it was moving fast,” days, Dr. Green kept the family says Robert. “I think a lot of people back to playing cards and washer well informed. were surprised, medically, how fast toss and making those around him laugh with his quick wit. “Mitchell was critically ill he got to where he is today.” “I wake up every day thankful with terrible injuries, and his In March 2021, the day the likelihood of survival was in family had been waiting for finally I’m still alive,” says Mitchell. “I cannot thank the team at the question,” says Dr. Green. arrived. Mitchell was discharged QEII enough for what they’ve The family appreciated from the rehabilitation centre. done for me. I know they're just “The words ‘I'm going home’ Dr. Green’s compassionate nature, doing their job but they need to were like a miracle to us,” says saying he gave them hope. They know how much their job means Robert. “We never thought continued to hold onto that hope to people like me. It's incredible.” we'd see the day. Nicole was through their faith and prayer. overwhelmed and very excited The result was nothing short of a Mitchell and his family extend their — she's a therapist herself and miracle, say Robert and Gwen. sincere gratitude to all involved in was looking forward to helping “When Mitchell was brought his care — the couple who called Mitchell here at home.” to the ICU, the movement in his 911, Brooklyn Fire Department, While Mitchell doesn’t legs was surprising to everyone. RCMP, paramedics and everyone remember much from his When Nicole, Mitchell’s younger Our specialized Teepa Snow Dementia training accident, he does remember sister, called his name, he moved at the enables our caregivers to appreciate what isQEII.

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YOUR QEII – FALL 2021

The Chronicle Herald 2717 Joseph Howe Drive PO Box 610 Halifax, N.S. B3J 2T2 902 426 2811 thechronicleherald.ca We want your feedback! Share your thoughts, comments and story ideas with us at: info@qe2foundation.ca 902 334 1546 or toll-free at 1 888 428 0220. QEII Foundation 5657 Spring Garden Road Park Lane Mall, Floor M3 Halifax, N.S. B3J 3R4 Charitable Business No: 88646 3496 RR0001

Jeff Cooke / Cooked Photography

A QEII Foundation publication in association with The Chronicle Herald, QEII Times is designed to shine a light on the QEII Health Sciences Centre community. Editor Sara Ericsson Communications, QEII Foundation Jenn Coleman-Ford Senior Graphic Designer Julia Webb Contributors Brandon Young Colleen Cosgrove Jenn Coleman-Ford Joey Fitzpatrick Natalie Jarvis Nicole Topple Sara Ericsson Susan Mullin Tanya MacLean Photographers Jeff Cooke/Cooked Photography Michael Tompkins QEII Foundation Uncharted Creative Media © The Chronicle Herald 2021 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent from the publisher.

A word from the QEII Foundation

By Susan Mullin, president & CEO, QEII Foundation 2021 marks the 25-year anniversary of the QEII Foundation. While our purpose is not measured by the numbers, facts and figures do help tell

the story of collective impact to date. Over those 25 years, our donor community has generously given more than $250 million to transform health care at the QEII Health Sciences Centre. That is an outstanding number that translates to just about every corner of the QEII being touched by philanthropy. And if the walls of the QEII could talk, the stories they would share. Stories of sheer determination and triumph. Stories of trauma, loss and grief. And moments upon moments of compassion, laughter and tears, and life-changing events. This fall also marks our 25th issue of QEII Times. More than 350 unique stories shared to shine a spotlight on the QEII and the many, many areas of care. To acknowledge the medical minds and the brightest stars delivering the best care. To showcase the programs and people who are breaking down barriers, asking “what if ” and committing to make health care better. All supported by the advertising

business community who help make QEII Times possible with their financial commitment. These QEII Times stories go beyond the words written on the page. One story reunited two friends who had studied together in Ireland decades ago. A story on a QEII-led research study helped recruit an additional 100 research participants. And a story about the critical role of the QEII’s cardiac perfusion team was later shared with the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion. This national society awarded the Perfusion Team Award to the QEII stars, acknowledging the achievement of the team toward the betterment of the profession. Health care affects us all. And sometimes, the narrative in our community can become quite negative surrounding health care. But there are such wonderful, positive things happening in our hospitals and the people devoting their careers to care for us deserve to be lifted up and celebrated. That’s what QEII Times is all about.

Bringing light to the positive things happening in health care and celebrating the impact philanthropy has on caring for those around us. It’s truly a privilege to tell these stories in QEII Times. There has been a lot of change in our province lately, specifically within the healthcare environment. Changes that are coupled with the fact that we are learning to live with COVID-19 and attempting to address the far-reaching impact this disease has had on the healthcare system over the last 18 months. One area that remains steady and true is philanthropy. And our mission to make health care better. Donors continue to step up to show their support and for that, we are grateful. Our community is tired and we are all doing our best to lead with heart. Remembering that kindness can go a long way. Thank you for reading QEII Times and for recognizing and celebrating the good that is all around us.

Teddy Bears with heart QEII’s Three Wishes Project granting wishes during end-of-life care By Tanya MacLean When Darrell knew his three teenage children would soon be facing life without him, he ensured they would each have a special keepsake to remember him by. Working with the Three Wishes Project at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, which grants wishes to ICU patients during end-of-life care, Darrell arranged for his heartbeat to be recorded on a device that was then inserted into a teddy bear for his children. On April 6, 2021, Joanne and her children were at Darrell’s bedside when he took his very last breath.

“We watched his heart stop beating and then within 15 minutes, my children were each handed a teddy bear that had his heartbeat recording. They press on their bear’s paw and he’s there with them. It’s a gift that’s unexplainable,” expresses Joanne. These teddy bears offer so much comfort to young family members who have faced loss. Bear wishes began in 2019 when Amanda Landry, support team lead with critical care at the QEII, saw a family lose a young mother, who unexpectedly passed away only a few days post-partum.

“I was trying to find something that would be meaningful to a baby who never got the chance to know her mom. Knowing that would be how her baby knew her for the last nine months, we thought there would be a familiarity there,” shares Amanda. The Three Wishes team were finding ways to digitally record a patient’s heartbeat, until they approached the QEII Foundation for funding to get the right equipment. With the support from donors, the Foundation helped purchase two special stethoscopes, one for each QEII

ICU, which will allow the team to easily capture and download a very clear heartbeat recording to transfer to the device for the teddy bear. The goal now is to provide sustainable funding for the teddy bears, which cost $40 each. “I know that there have been many times where we’d like to offer a bear, but due to limited funding, we tend to only be able to fulfill bears when there are children involved,” explains Amanda. “If we could purchase TEDDY BEARS – Page 3

FALL 2021

Bridging the gap RN Bridging/Re-Entry Program helps international students in their nursing journey By Brandon Young Diversity and representation matter everywhere, including health care. With people from all walks of life accessing healthcare services, supporting a system that includes diverse healthcare staff is crucial to meet the cultural needs of everyone it serves. This is precisely why the QEII Foundation offers the Diversity in Health Care Bursary. Available to students identifying as African Nova Scotian/Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour, immigrant, 2SLGBTQIA+ and/ or having a disability, the $1,000 bursary assists in their pursuit of post-secondary education in a health-related profession, with a long-term goal of a more diverse and inclusive workforce that better reflects local communities. This year, the QEII Foundation awarded 51 bursaries. Yemisi Olatunji, who worked for 13 years as a registered nurse in Nigeria before moving to Canada, is one student who exemplifies the bursary. While growing up as a teenager, Yemisi lived with her paternal grandmother, who was in her 80s with declining health. The family could not afford to keep her grandmother in the hospital, so many of the treatments were done at home. When a private nurse would visit to provide care, Yemisi was the only assistant to the nurse and was very involved in taking care of her grandmother before she passed away. “That experience of caring for someone when they were in need gave me an interest in the medical world,” says Yemisi. “The elegance and diligence of the nurse that took care of my grandma was indelible in my memories, therefore I decided to pursue a career in nursing.” In 2018, Yemisi moved to

Canada with her family to provide a more stable environment for her kids and to continue in her chosen field of taking care of people. However, Yemisi’s prior experience didn’t mean she was ready to work as a registered nurse in the local healthcare system just yet. While working as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), Yemisi enrolled in a unique program called the RN Bridging/ Re-Entry Program — her next step in becoming a qualified RN in Nova Scotia. Offered to registered nurses wishing to begin nursing in Canada after working in another country, the RN Bridging/ReEntry Program helps students meet educational and practical standards by focusing on knowledge, skills and abilities expected in Canada. Additionally, the program is open to Canadianeducated nurses seeking to re-enter the field after years out of practice. “Initially, the program was designed specifically for internationally educated nurses. Nova Scotia has long had a need to increase our number of nurses and it was untapped potential,” says Melissa Salah, administrator of the RN Bridging/Re-Entry Program. “Individuals who were nurses would come from other countries but couldn’t work here because they weren’t licensed.” “Unfortunately, immigration pathways don’t often facilitate an individual to continue in their career path of choice,” says Melissa. “The fact that this pathway exists is fantastic because we need more people to come to our country and to work in our healthcare system.” Helping aspiring Canadian nurses obtain their licences, the

RN Bridging/Re-Entry Program is delivered through study modules facilitated via online learning, as well as face-to-face lab and simulation practise. Students are offered courses such as professional nursing, professional communication, pharmacology and more. With students originally from India, South Africa, the Philippines and beyond, the program ensures graduates meet standards set forth by the Nova Scotia College of Nursing. “In a lot of countries, nurses don’t practise the same scope that we do in Canada,” says Jeff Hawley, RN Bridging/Re-Entry Program lead instructor. “It’s often a steep learning curve for them to realize that they have more autonomy, responsibility and the scope is much broader than it would have been when they were practising at home.” Yemisi is committed to accomplishing her dream of being a registered nurse in Canada. She is excelling in her courses, assignments and exams, all while working full time and taking care of her family. Set to graduate in March 2022, Yemisi says she has benefitted immensely from the program. “Even though it has been stressful combining the program with work and family life, the program has given me more confidence in my current practice with the detailed knowledge I’m learning about the Canadian nursing system,” she says. One of about 45 students in the program, Yemisi is among a group of driven individuals ready to make a difference in the local healthcare system. “The students constantly amaze me with their dedication, their passion and their

unstoppable work ethic,” says Melissa. “It’s rewarding to work in a program that clearly is benefiting not just the learners in the program, but the healthcare system as a whole.” “Seeing how hard these nurses work to get here; they want this so badly,” says Jeff. “They’re so grateful for the opportunity, the education. It’s a lot of work, but they don’t complain. As an educator, it’s amazing to see them succeed.” Of course, when studying and raising a family in a new country, any available help is gladly accepted, like the QEII Foundation Diversity in Health Care Bursary. “This financial assistance is coming at a crucial time in my

very fulfilling. It helps being able to give the families something, when you feel like you have taken away so much.” Joanne vividly remembers the team handing the heartbeat bears to her children. “The look on their faces and the way they grabbed those bears was priceless,” smiles Joanne. “And they haven’t let the bears go. They sleep with them every night. My daughter has shared that the bear makes her feel like she didn’t completely lose her dad because she gets to hear his heartbeat every day.”

Through the QEII Foundation, donors are supporting the QEII’s Three Wishes Project, which provides wishes to those in ICU facing end of life care. Recently, the Three Wishes team have been providing teddy bears with a digital recording of a loved ones heart. Contributed

After more than a decade of working as a registered nurse in Nigeria, Yemisi Olatunji, a recipient of the 2021 QEII Foundation Diversity in Health Care Bursary, is upgrading her skills through the RN Bridging/Re-Entry Program to be able to use her skills and knowledge as an RN in Nova Scotia’s healthcare system. Contributed

Canadian journey and will help me follow my passion to help my community in the future,” says Yemisi. “It helps me recognize that organizations like the QEII Foundation see me and are supporting me, wanting me to succeed.” And it’s not only Yemisi who benefits from such an initiative. “By having people from diverse cultural backgrounds in the healthcare system, it will help the system have a better understanding of patients' cultures and beliefs, thereby helping the system provide care plans appropriately,” says Yemisi.

Teddy Bears Continued from Page 2

the bears in advance and have them on hand, ready for the recording device, it would go a long way to expanding the reach to more families.” “Three Wishes is about bringing people together and remembering the patient as a person and what was important to them, as opposed to the disease they had. It’s making human connections and lasting memories,” says Dr. Sarah McMullen, who co-leads the Three Wishes Project with Dr. Jennifer Hancock. Bear wishes have been

even more important during the pandemic, with visitor restrictions fluctuating. “In the height of the pandemic, we were only able to bring in one or two family members. Usually during end of life, we welcome as many family members and loved ones who want to be there,” shares Dr. Hancock. And from a staff perspective, Dr. Hancock says the team also takes comfort from the teddy bears. “End of life is challenging. Knowing that you are providing some comfort for the family is

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FALL 2021

Halifax man’s journey with COVID-19 QEII care teams giving their all during pandemic By Jenn Coleman-Ford When the third wave of COVID19 hit Nova Scotia in spring 2021, Laird Smith continued to be diligent about following public health protocols like wearing a mask, social distancing and handwashing. In late May, Laird tested positive for COVID-19 and he’s still unsure of how he contracted the virus. “I had very limited potential exposure, so I assume it was through community spread,” he says. With a pre-existing dry cough unrelated to COVID-19, it wasn’t until Laird began experiencing shortness of breath with his coughing that he became concerned. And then the fever set in. “I haven’t had a fever in years,” recalls Laird. “As soon as that happened, I scheduled a COVID test.” When the test came back positive — the same day the province opened vaccine appointments to his age group — Laird thought he could handle it at home. Within a couple hours of receiving his results, Laird received a package that included contact information for a physician and a pulse oximeter. A pulse oximeter clips on a patient’s finger and monitors the percentage of oxygen in the blood. These pieces of technology are vital for patients to be safely monitored at home, as respiratory failure can be among the more severe symptoms of COVID-19. Laird was using the pulse oximeter and it showed his oxygen was dangerously low. He contacted the physician for an assessment by phone, who recommended Laird call 911. “When I contacted 911, they very kindly walked me through everything and told me the paramedics would come do an

assessment,” says Laird. The paramedics determined it was necessary to transport Laird to the QEII Health Sciences Centre. At the QEII’s Charles V. Keating Emergency and Trauma Centre, Laird received care in an isolation room — a negative pressure room that prevents air potentially contaminated with the virus from flowing out of the room. While at the emergency department, Laird received an IV for nutrition — he’d been struggling to eat for several days — along with oxygen, bloodwork and other tests. “The healthcare team was amazing; they kept me advised of what was happening and what the next steps would be,” says Laird. After receiving care at the emergency department for about six hours, the decision was made to admit Laird as an inpatient. “This was one of the hardest moments for me,” says Laird. “Being hooked up to all of these lines made me realize my situation was serious enough to warrant all of the steps and precautions.” Laird spent eight days at the QEII — four days in a COVID unit and another four in recovery for observation. He said the worst part of all was the proning. Proning refers to a patient lying prone (face down) to avoid acute respiratory distress by allowing for improvements such as better expansion of the back-lung region and for clearing secretions. “It’s the most awkward thing,” says Laird. “You can’t do anything, you can’t see anything; every position is uncomfortable.” Laird was not on a ventilator and was able to turn himself, at intervals prompted by his healthcare team, but it was no easy feat. “I had an IV in one arm, my

oxygen tube in; you’re trying to turn over and not interfere with anything.” The best part, Laird notes, is not only the incredible care he received but the engagement from his healthcare team, including their professionalism and positivity. “The staff were always trying to keep engaged with me and the other COVID patients — they’d chat and make sure we had a human connection,” says Laird. “They were constantly checking in to see if we needed anything, from water or juice to personal items like toothbrushes.” What really stands out to Laird is the holistic approach to his care, including the attention from Food and Nutrition Services. Laird lost 20 pounds in less than two weeks when the virus wiped out his appetite. The Food and Nutrition team continued to come up with diverse meal plans that would provide Laird with the nutrition he needed to improve his strength and recover. Laid notes that this was a lifechanging experience for him as it gave him the structure and resources he needed to continue with a revised approach to his own nutrition when he left the hospital. With his COVID-19 case resolved, Laird is now home to finish his recovery, gradually returning to daily activities and working from home. But Laird expects COVID-19 to be a part of his life for a while yet. While at the QEII, Laird had the opportunity to join a COVID19 study that will continue to help researchers discover more about the virus and how people respond to treatments. This study is led by QEII infectious diseases expert, Dr. Lisa Barrett, and was partially funded by the Nova Scotia COVID-19 Health Research Coalition. Laird holds much appreciation

Laird Smith spent eight days at the QEII Health Sciences Centre battling with COVID-19 and recovering from the illness. Contributed

They gave me back my life and light. – Laird Smith

for everyone involved with his care. In addition to the direct care he was given by QEII physicians and staff, Laird recognizes that many people and teams played a role in his COVID-19 journey — his first contacts with Public

Health and EHS, Food and Nutrition Services, laboratory teams, housekeeping and linen services and everyone in between. “Patience, compassion and endless professionalism are truly special in these trying times and, again and again, I heard from them that they wish they could have done even more,” says Laird. “The number of people involved with my care is too high to keep track of and I will never have enough praise for what they do each day. They gave me back my life and light.”

‘I had lost touch with reality’ Brain surgery restores clarity and light to Dartmouth woman By Natalie Jarvis Shelagh Rawding won’t soon forget the morning she slipped and fell on black ice outside a Dartmouth McDonald’s, on her way to work in February 2020. The 66-year-old, who is a guest experience leader at the restaurant, felt a bump form immediately. As a precaution, she headed to Dartmouth General Hospital to rule out a concussion and received a CT scan upon arrival. “When I was put through the scanner a second time, I was suspicious,” she says. “I knew something was wrong when the doctor entered the room. He was very subdued.” Shelagh learned she had a brain tumour — one she had likely been living with for some time. “I went very quiet,” she says, “After I left and was on the bus home, I shed a few tears.” After a family doctor visit and an MRI, Shelagh met Dr. Sean Barry in August. A neurosurgeon at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, Dr. Barry reviewed her results and would later become her surgeon. “He assured me that it wasn’t cancerous and that it had been there a long, long time — the slow-growing kind of tumour you

can live with for years,” she says. Dr. Barry explained that these tumours, known as meningiomas, aren’t typically dangerous. Only a small percentage of patients with meningiomas require surgery. They decided together that Shelagh would be monitored but to hold off on surgery, as she wasn’t experiencing symptoms. But in February 2021, something changed. “It felt as though the tumour was moving in my head,” she says. “It was weird and scary.” Checking in with her family doctor, Shelagh had another MRI in March and was reconnected to Dr. Barry for a follow-up. But something abnormal happened while awaiting the results. “I was not myself anymore,” Shelagh says. “I call it the dark zone — I lost touch with reality and was acting very strange.” Shelagh’s son, William, who lives with her, was very worried and began to fear for her safety. He accompanied her to the closest emergency room. “The doctors thought the issue might be psychiatric, but William was there with me, advocating for me and explaining the situation,” she says. Shelagh was transferred to

A chance slip on the ice, and following MRI, in February 2020, led to Shelagh Rawding’s non-cancerous brain tumour diagnosis. Shelagh and her family, including her son William (right), are grateful for the care she received at the QEII. Contributed

the Halifax Infirmary building at the QEII, where Dr. Barry would perform her surgery. “Initially, we were surprised Shelagh wasn’t symptomatic, because of the size of the tumour. If we can avoid surgery, we always do, but this tumour was, by the time we removed it, the size of an orange,” Dr. Barry says. Over the course of the year, Shelagh had developed speech difficulties, as the tumour was sitting on the part of the brain that controls language. As the tumour progressed, she experienced severe anxiety, delusions and was becoming paranoid. “It is becoming more appreciated and understood that these types of tumours, when they affect certain regions of the brain, can elicit psychiatric symptoms that patients didn’t ever have before. In some cases, they can

also exacerbate pre-existing psychological or psychiatric problems,” says Dr. Barry. When Shelagh started to heal and feel like herself again, she worried about her interactions with hospital staff when she hadn’t been well. “I went to apologize to them and they said, ‘Don’t apologize. We love you.’ I’m here to tell you, the staff at the QEII are fantastic,” she says. “They treated me professionally and were kind, caring and compassionate, speaking to me quietly when I wasn’t myself.” She recalls feeling taken care of every step of the way, during what she calls a wild ride of paranoia, fear and upset. “That’s where I got the idea for the donation,” Shelagh says. “I wanted to give back. Dr. Barry and the entire team — they saved my life. And my son, standing up

for me — it saved my life.” Shelagh made a generous donation of $3,000 to the QEII Foundation, directing her gift to the neurosurgical unit to help future patients. When Dr. Barry learned of her gift, he was honoured. “It’s so rewarding,” he says, “It’s a gesture of appreciation for the entire team. It means a lot to us. It’s wonderful to have money donated. It’s a reminder that patients are appreciative of what we do,” says Dr. Barry. Today, Shelagh feels like her old self again, and has just returned to work — a job she loves. She couldn’t be happier to be back on her feet and she’ll never forget the team at the QEII. “We’ll monitor Shelagh over the course of her lifetime, but I’m very hopeful that this is the only brain surgery she’ll ever need,” says Dr. Barry.

FALL 2021

Inspired by the work he does each day, Dr. Ricardo Rendon, a QEII urologist and robotic surgeon, supported the QEII Foundation through a gift of securities. Dr. Rendon’s gift of securities directly supports the advanced care delivered at the QEII. QEII Foundation

QEII surgeon supports patient care in a tax-smart way Gifts of securities help donors, QEII through streamlined donation process By Sara Ericsson Making a difference by supporting an organization can happen in many ways. There are a variety of ways donors can lend their support to the QEII Health Sciences Centre through the QEII Foundation, as well as other organizations and non-profits. One way to support a charity is through a donation of securities or shares of a company. When people decide to transfer their publicly listed stocks and/or mutual funds directly to the QEII Foundation, these transferred shares are like a cash gift that supports advancing health care for Atlantic Canadians at the QEII. This form of charitable giving is a tax-smart way of supporting the QEII and is one that Geoff Graham, the senior director of gift planning and charitable giving advisor at the QEII Foundation, says is of benefit for both the donor and the QEII. “Once you see the tax advantages of giving securities, it becomes very clear for a lot of people that this is a great way for them to be donating,” he says. “Many people have owned securities for years that have increased in value with a taxable

capital gain owing on the sale of those shares. These shares can be given as a charitable gift and no capital gains taxes are owing.” Gifts of securities are a simple and efficient way of contributing to charity. “People find it really interesting when they understand the power of making a gift in kind like this — many don’t realize how easy it is to give their shares. When they find out the tax benefits, usually a light bulb goes on. They see the benefit of giving securities they can transfer to charity,” says Geoff. He says the big difference between this method of support and giving traditionally lies with the tax savings received after donating. While donors giving money in traditional ways receive charitable tax credits for up to 55 per cent on gifts in excess of $200, gifts of securities can be of even greater tax benefit, as transferring shares as a donation to charity eliminates capital gains tax. “Let’s say you bought stock for $5,000 some time ago and this investment is now worth $10,000. If sold, you would be looking at a capital gain of $5,000

and 50 per cent of that would be taxed as a capital gain,” says Geoff. “Giving the shares directly to the QEII Foundation will eliminate the $1,000 or so in the tax bill.” “But when you give those shares to charity, you eliminate that capital gain altogether and receive both a charitable tax receipt and charitable tax credit for the full $10,000. You’re avoiding capital gains, while also getting a tax credit that could be very valuable for your situation.” Knowing your investment is helping to save and change lives is a feeling that’s made even better when that decision is one that can help you as well, which is why Geoff says this is a form of donation that works well for many. “You can look at it two ways: you can pay tax on your investment or you can give a wonderful gift to charity and get a charitable tax credit,” says Geoff. “It’s an efficient way to donate that not only helps a person’s financial situation, but helps the charity, too.” Dr. Ricardo Rendon, a QEII urologist and robotic surgeon, chose to support the QEII through a gift of securities, after

... as a user of the benefits from those donations, it means I can offer my patients better access to state-of-the-art tools, surgeries and treatments. – Dr. Ricardo Rendon

working with a financial advisor who recommended this form of donating. Dr. Rendon says his continued support is inspired by the work he does each day as a physician, knowing the dollars are directly supporting the advancing of care delivered at the QEII. “This increases the quality of health care we can provide,” he says. “And as a user of the benefits from those donations, it means I can offer my patients better access to state-of-the-art tools, surgeries and treatments. It makes their outcomes better.” Geoff says working with a

financial advisor is a great way to know your gift of securities will be transferred properly to the QEII Foundation, ensuring it goes directly to helping advance care at the QEII. “We always recommend that donors check with financial advisors as they explore the option of gifting securities. Their financial advisor will help ensure everything is set up to make the transfer and can also determine which shares are the best to transfer to charity,” says Geoff. Geoff says the impact from gifts of securities is felt systemwide, with recent projects like the QEII’s new interventional radiology suites and gallium-68 scanning having benefited from these donations. He says these donations play a vital role in continued healthcare advancement at the QEII. “Being able to help build access to better health care for patients makes a big difference,” says Dr. Rendon. For more information about giving a gift of securities to advance health care at the QEII, visit https://qe2foundation.ca/ways-give/ give-gift-securities

FALL 2021

‘We knew we could make a difference’ Donors proudly support women’s health care at the QEII

By Natalie Jarvis You’ve likely read stories about donors improving health care, from new technology and surgical suites to the latest cancer treatments and more. Health care is the sum of its parts and it encompasses many causes worthy of our support. But what about the corners of the hospital no one thinks about or, at least, not until they find themselves or a loved one there? What about the clinics that change lives, but largely go unseen? The QEII Women’s Choice Clinic is one of those places. A veteran of the QEII, Andrew Ritcey is no stranger to the medical system. After spending his career as a recreation therapist and health services manager, Andrew and his partner, Virginia Veinot, wanted to do something powerful to support health care — addressing a need that most people are likely not aware of. “We wanted to explore the areas of the hospital where perhaps people aren’t focused on making donations,” says Virginia. “We knew we could make a difference by supporting areas that aren’t always in the public eye, or when they are, it isn’t always positive.” When a staff member at the QEII Foundation identified the clinic as a need, it resonated with both Andrew and Virginia. “We all find ourselves in

situations we didn’t plan for,” Andrew says, “but that doesn’t mean we don’t deserve access to the care we need in those moments.” The pair have supported the clinic and women’s health in a number of ways over the years, helping to purchase vital equipment, including an ultrasound and IUDs — tiny, t-shaped contraceptive devices — for women who otherwise couldn’t afford them. Focused on abortion care, the QEII Women’s Choice Clinic works in partnership with the Halifax Sexual Health Centre and, until recently, was formally known as the Termination of Pregnancy Unit. Dr. Lianne Yoshida is the medical co-director of the clinic. In addition to supporting women locally, she and her team have long rallied to move the bar forward and strip the stigma from abortion care. “Although the stigma around abortion has changed a lot in the 20 years that I’ve been an abortion provider, it’s still there,” she says, “as I see it reflected in my patients — even 20-year-old patients have internalized the stigma.” Until 2017, the Women’s Choice Clinic was not part of the standard clinical rotation for

medical students or residents. But progress has been made in recent years, bringing good news for women’s sexual health in Nova Scotia. In 2019, a self-referral line was introduced in the province, meaning a doctor’s referral is no longer necessary to acquire services. Donor support is incredibly meaningful to the clinic, according to Dr. Yoshida. “Abortion care is political. It makes us a little bit different than cancer care or cardiac care, for example” she says. “To every individual who donates to us, I want to say thank you. You are helping to directly combat abortion stigma because you feel that abortion is health care. It’s important.” Since 2005, donors like Andrew and Virginia have contributed more than $159,000 to the clinic, helping ensure women enter a space that is welcoming, comforting and overall, that they receive the care they need, if and when they need it. Dr. Yoshida highlighted that while private insurance plans cover IUDs for many, and medical insurance is in place for women on social assistance, this creates a significant gap. “There are a lot of women working low-wage jobs,” says

Dr. Lianne Yoshida, medical director of the QEII's Women's Choice Clinic, says she and her team are supporting women locally and have long rallied to move the bar forward and strip the stigma from abortion care. Contributed

Dr. Yoshida. “These women don’t have insurance, live pay to pay and to spend $400 on the spot is just not realistic. Donors are helping them,” she says. Many of the recipients have written personal notes as a gesture of thanks for the support they received. “Now, I feel like I have control as to when I’d like to be a mother,” one woman wrote. “I will never forget you. You gave me control over my body — what a gift.”

“I’m not able to take other forms of birth control for health reasons,” another woman wrote. “This IUD will have a huge positive impact on my overall general health, emotionally and physically.”

For more information on the clinic, or to show your support with a gift, please contact Katharine Berrington at katharine. berrington@qe2foundation.ca.

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FALL 2021

Dr. Glen Richardson (left), QEII orthopaedic surgeon; Dr. Janie Wilson (centre), biomedical engineer; and Dr. Michael Dunbar (right), QEII orthopaedic surgeon, with the QEII’s new orthopaedic surgical robot. The technology is in high demand across the country and the QEII became only the second hospital in Canada to acquire this type of surgical robot. Michael Tompkins

Surgical robot transforming joint replacement surgery QEII second hospital in Canada to receive the technology, funded entirely by donors By Natalie Jarvis If you ask Dr. Michael Dunbar, the conversations medical professionals are having today about surgical robotics are not unlike the conversations pilots had 50 to 60 years ago, when aviation shifted from a craft that relied solely on the skill of the pilot to include computer automation. “And just like every pilot now can fly the aircraft without the computers, they’re better off having the computers assist them because it probably reduces the error rate longer term,” says Dr. Dunbar. If we apply that logic to surgery, and think of a robot supporting the surgeon, we can imagine how that kind of automation and precision could improve outcomes. “But that needs to be proven, definitively. We have a major role in Halifax — within Canada and internationally — to be part of that equation,” he says. Dr. Dunbar, an orthopaedic surgeon at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, is considered a thought leader in his field. He specializes in arthroplasty, or joint replacement surgery, of the hip and knees. It was the highlight of his career in September 2021 when the QEII became the second hospital in Canada to acquire an orthopaedic surgical robot. The technology is in high demand across the country. The QEII seized an opportunity to receive a robot and begin conducting research that will have international reach. The QEII Foundation has committed to raising $2.5 million to fund the technology and the research. At Dr. Dunbar’s side are Dr. Glen Richardson, fellow orthopaedic surgeon at the QEII and Dr. Janie Wilson, PhD, who has researched collaboratively as a biomedical engineer with Drs. Dunbar and Richardson for decades. Dr. Wilson was also recently recruited back as director of the School of Biomedical Engineering at Dalhousie University. Together, these experts are at the forefront of their fields, recognized internationally for their research. “And we are just the tip of the scalpel,” says Dr. Dunbar. What Dr. Dunbar means is that it takes a big team of health administrators, residents, fellows, masters and PhD students to do the research to bring this project to life. And, contextually, we’re in the right environment at the QEII, a teaching hospital lockstep with Dalhousie University. We have the infrastructure and the history of research to support this work. Without donor support it “just wouldn’t happen,” says Dr. Richardson. “Donors who support robotic surgery are giving us the opportunity to bring very advanced technology to Nova Scotians, something that we would never have access to otherwise.” Traditional knee and hip surgeries are

based on 2D-imaging and rely fully on the skill and craft of the surgeon. Cuts are based on the average person. “We just have to look around to see that it’s obvious that we’re all slightly different — the way we look, the way we walk,” says Dr. Dunbar. “With the robot, for the first time, we’re able to look and investigate and say that your skeleton is actually slightly differently shaped than my skeleton, versus another patient’s. And previously, we might have been aware of that, but we weren’t able to impute that into a surgical plan and say, ‘what am I going to do differently?’” The robot allows the surgeon to use 3D-imaging to plan the exact placement of an implant within the skeleton. “My hope is that robotic surgeries will allow us to take individual patients and perform an operation that’s specific to them and know beforehand that we’re going to be able to get the best-possible result,” says Dr. Richardson.

Donors who support robotic surgery are giving us the opportunity to bring very advanced technology to Nova Scotians, something that we would never have access to otherwise. — Dr. Glen Richardson

Dr. Janie Wilson says the robot is “the missing piece that now allows us to do the type of research that we would really like to do to help Nova Scotians.” “We’ve been running research studies for years that have combined things like instrumented gait analysis — where we can monitor the three-dimensional movement and forces on a person’s joints as they move — with precise implant imaging and data modelling,” she says. “We’ve developed an ecosystem that brings biomedical technology and clinical studies together to understand particular aspects of patient outcomes that aren’t possible without that technology. The robotic technology will now allow us to leverage the knowledge we’ve developed from years of research, by allowing us to develop and validate precise surgical plans that are specific to the needs, the anatomy and the function of the individual patient.” The QEII teams have also worked

with Radiostereometric Analysis (RSA), a technology that monitors an implant, as well as how it moves, within the bone after surgery. All of these pieces fit together to create a centre of excellence, meaning that the QEII can finally have its moment as a true leader in orthopaedic care. If you or a loved one are on a knee or hip surgery list, don’t fret — you will still receive top-notch care today at the QEII.

“Knee and hip replacement surgery are some of the best surgeries ever developed and are remarkable in terms of how far we’ve come with the technology,” Dr. Dunbar says. “And what we’re talking about now is breaking through a glass ceiling and going to the next level.” For more about the QEII’s surgical orthopaedic robot, visit QE2Foundation.ca/ orthorobot.

FALL 2021

The QEII Foundation was onsite to capture Sharon Needham’s gallium-68 DOTATATE scan at the QEII. The donor-funded technology, which is the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada, will transform the diagnosis and treatment of neuroendocrine cancer. QEII Foundation

First cancer patients scanned thanks to donor-funded technology Bringing Atlantic Canada’s first gallium-68 DOTATATE tracer to the QEII By Nicole Topple On the six-year anniversary of her cancer diagnosis, Sharon Needham anxiously waited as a tumour-seeking tracer made its way through her veins. The radioactive tracer, known as gallium-68 DOTATATE, is the world’s best method for detecting neuroendocrine cancer. When injected into a patient and combined with the advanced imaging capabilities of a PET-CT scan, even the smallest traces of cancer — that otherwise wouldn’t be detected — light up on screen. It’s a game-changer for patients, like Sharon, who finally have access to this critical diagnostic tool. This September, she became the sixth patient in Atlantic Canada to undergo a gallium-68 DOTATATE scan at the QEII Health Sciences Centre — a milestone made possible by QEII Foundation donors. For Sharon, her long-awaited scan felt like a “full-circle moment.” Four years prior, she was the first Nova Scotia patient to access gallium-68 DOTATATE through a clinical trial in Sherbrooke, Quebec. That 2017 scan showed that Sharon’s cancer treatment — major surgery to remove the golf-ball-sized tumour in her left lung — was effective. When her medical oncologist, Dr. Daniel Rayson, noticed a

suspicious mass in Sharon’s abdomen earlier this year, it became clear that gallium-68 DOTATATE would be the best tool to determine if her neuroendocrine cancer had returned. The QEII Foundation had recently launched its own campaign to bring the pivotal technology to the QEII and Sharon soon became the patient face behind its fundraising efforts. The end result was more than $200,200 raised by 1,321 donors, fully funding the project. According to Dr. Rayson, its impact on the lives and treatment journeys of neuroendocrine cancer patients cannot be understated. “This scan is really the gold standard worldwide for diagnosing, staging and monitoring neuroendocrine tumours,” says Dr. Rayson, chair of the QEII’s neuroendocrine tumour team. “It allows physicians to know exactly where [the cancer] is, if it has spread and to what extent, and then to plan the best treatment options.” He’s thrilled to be able to offer these scans to his patients, here at home, for the very first time. It’s a sentiment echoed by radiologist and QEII head of nuclear medicine, Dr. Steven Burrell. His team began performing the first patient scans

I’m so grateful to the donors who supported this project…it will truly change so many lives.” – Sharon Needham

in late-August and he says it’s already “making a significant difference” in patient care. “The biggest advantage of gallium is it’s much more accurate than anything we’ve had to this point, but it’s also a much faster and more comfortable scan” says Dr. Burrell. “Previous methods involved four hours of scanning over two days, compared with now a 20-minute scan that can take place during a single hospital visit.” It’s not hard to imagine the impact that this can have on a patient’s comfort and overall experience during an already difficult time. Both Dr. Burrell and Dr. Rayson are also excited for the research

opportunities, as well as the future clinical implications, that this best-in-class technology offers for diagnosing — and eventually treating — other cancers such as prostate cancers. “The long-term impact is significant and these opportunities are only possible thanks to donors,” says Dr. Burrell. Once considered rare, neuroendocrine cancer is one of the fastest-rising cancers worldwide. It can develop anywhere within the body and has a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal cramps, diarrhea, wheezing, pounding heart rate, skin rashes and more. This makes it one of the most difficult cancers to detect, but local access to gallium-68 DOTATATE will now help provide a solution and, for many patients, offer long-awaited answers. For survivor and patient spokesperson, Sharon, her recent scan confirmed that she’s cancerfree. "Words cannot describe my relief," says Sharon, who’ll continue to undergo annual surveillance scans to ensure her neuroendocrine cancer remains at bay. “I’m so grateful to the donors who supported this project…it will truly change so many lives.”

DID YOU KNOW? Key benefits of the gallium-68 DOTATATE tracer and the impact donors are having on cancer care at the QEII: SLASHING TOTAL SCAN TIME FROM FOUR HOURS TO 20 MINUTES, reducing the time a patient must lay still, improving comfort and reducing radiation exposure. MORE ACCURATE SCANS MEAN FASTER ANSWERS and that patients receive the most targeted treatments and avoid additional tests, such as MRIs. LOCAL ACCESS to a cancer imaging scan that patients in our region previously travelled to Quebec and beyond to receive. This is critical, especially in a pandemic. OPENS DOORS TO DIAGNOSE AND TREAT PROSTATE CANCER and other cancers as galliumbased PET-CT scans are being used. LESS TIME SPENT IN HOSPITAL by reducing scan appointments from three to one, when compared to the previous method. NEW TREATMENTS AND RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES thanks to best-in-class imaging; this can provide a lifesaving option for patients.

FALL 2021

Members of the QEII’s nuclear medicine team, Natasha Warwick and Hassan Jankari, prepare the gallium-68 DOTATATE tracer before it can be injected into the patient prior to their PET-CT scan. QEII Foundation

Understanding neuroendocrine cancer and gallium-68 DOTATATE Q&A with patient and national advocate, Jackie Herman By Nicole Topple It took the lives of Steve Jobs and Aretha Franklin, but it’s not widely discussed or understood. Neuroendocrine cancer forces us to abandon the narrative that cancer is associated with the organ where it is found and, instead, consider the cell within which it originates. Neuroendocrine cells are found throughout your body and help control everything from the air and blood through your lungs to the digestive enzymes that break down your food. Neuroendocrine tumours, or NETs, begin in these cells and occur most often in your lungs, appendix, small intestine, rectum and pancreas. NETs often mimic other illnesses, making it one of the most difficult cancers to detect, often taking five to seven years from a patient’s first symptoms to their official diagnosis. According to the Canadian Neuroendocrine Tumour Society of Canada (CNETS), diagnosis of this type of cancer is complex and often requires sophisticated lab testing and advanced scanning techniques, like the QEII’s new gallium-68 DOTATATE technology. The QEII Health Sciences Centre recently began scanning its first neuroendocrine cancer patients with gallium-68 DOTATATE — a huge milestone for the Atlantic region — thanks to the QEII Foundation’s $200,200 fundraising campaign. We recently connected virtually with Jackie Herman, president of CNETS’ board of directors. Located in Toronto, Jackie is a NET patient, activist and national leader within the neuroendocrine cancer community. In 2015, Jackie entered a clinical trial at an American hospital, where she would first access a gallium-68 scan. For the first time, she received a clear image of the cancer in her body — a peace of mind that couldn’t be offered at home, at that time, here in Canada.

This summer, the QEII began performing its first gallium-68 DOTATATE scans. What makes this milestone so exciting?

Until now, neuroendocrine cancer patients living in Eastern Canada in need of this scan were required to travel to Quebec, Ontario or as far away as Alberta to access it. Given that neuroendocrine cancer patients are dealing with health issues, the less travel necessary the better. Having local access in Halifax makes this very important scan more accessible to more Atlantic Canadian patients.

Is this milestone something Atlantic Canadians should be proud of?

Most definitely! Thanks to the commitment of the QEII Foundation, including the medical oncology and nuclear medicine champions, Atlantic Canadians now have access to a life-saving scan that unfortunately is still not accessible to all Canadians.

What does a gallium-68 scan offer to those living with known or suspected neuroendocrine cancer?

It offers high-quality images that provide information — which exceeds what is available from conventional imaging — that can detect tumors as small as 4 millimeters. The scan has different roles, depending on what the tumour is doing, and can be used for diagnosis, staging and restaging, deciding the best form of treatment and monitoring the effect of treatment. It is also used to identify patients who are viable candidates for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), a molecular therapy that binds directly to the tumour cells’ receptors, avoiding the destruction of healthy cells

A longtime advocate for fellow neuroendocrine cancer patients, Jackie Herman is president of the Canadian Neuroendocrine Tumour Society of Canada’s (CNETS) board of directors. Contributed

often found with external beam radiation.

Jackie Herman pictured with her husband, Joe. Contributed

How will it help Atlantic Canadian patients?

The gallium-68 DOTATATE scan has the potential to offer a change in treatment plan that can be life-altering for patients. Neuroendocrine tumours are sneaky and hide in places that more traditional scans are not able to see, so this scan is a critical tool in the diagnostic toolbox that every Canadian should have access to.

Q: Is access to this game-

changing technology still limited across Canada? Why is that?

Access to gallium-68 DOTATATE is available in many centres in Canada via clinical trials and the pharmaceutical version (NETSPOT) is available in a handful of medical institutions and private clinics, but access is not equitable. I believe this may be driven by cost, including the investment in the necessary technology. Provinces and medical institutions need to be

Both images are scans of the same neuroendocrine cancer patient. The one on the left uses the former detection methods available in our region, while the right scan uses the gallium-68 DOTATATE tracer; donor-funded technology now available at the QEII. Contributed

willing to make the investment in this diagnostic tool that can and does change patient lives. The bottom line is it is not readily available as a standard of care across Canada and this needs to change.

What’s your biggest hope for the future when it comes to gallium-68

DOTATATE scans and access from coast to coast?

My hope is for every neuroendocrine cancer patient to have access to a gallium-68 scan as a standard tool to make an accurate diagnosis. In the ultimate perfect scenario, we will have no cost or location barriers to gallium-68 in Canada.

FALL 2021

Since June 2021, the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) lab at the QEII has been using new technology for HLA genotyping of potential donors to greatly reduce the time it takes to match an organ donor with a recipient. Dr. Jason Quinn (left), QEII Blood Transfusion Services medical director; Dr. Anna Greenshields (centre), HLA Typing Laboratory assistant director; and Dr. Robert Liwski (right), HLA Typing Laboratory medical director say this new technology can also be used for blood cell genotyping for transfusions. QEII Foundation

Reading genes in real time New technology with faster test results enhances HLA genotyping By Joey Fitzpatrick Organ and tissue transplants are complex procedures with many moving parts. Ensuring donor-recipient compatibility is an essential component of each procedure and, as with everything related to transplants, time is of the essence. Since June 2021, the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) lab at the QEII Health Sciences Centre has been using new technology for HLA genotyping of potential donors. “This has really reduced our turnaround time,” says HLA Typing Laboratory assistant director Dr. Anna Greenshields. “We’re able to get a donor’s HLA typing to our transplant team

much faster.” HLA typing reveals which HLA genes are expressed by individual donors and recipients and is essential in determining organ compatibility. HLAs are proteins on the surface of cells that help our immune system recognize and destroy infected or abnormal cells. “HLA genes are the most polymorphic — or most different among individuals — genes that humans have,” says Dr. Greenshields. People who have had a previous transplant or blood transfusion, as well as women who have been pregnant, are exposed to HLA that is different

The better we can match donors and recipients, the better the outcome. – Dr. Robert Liwski

from their own and can form antibodies that target these nonself proteins. If an individual develops antibodies to HLA, it is important to ensure that any transplant they receive comes from a donor that does not have HLA these antibodies could attack.

From left to right: Dianna MacDonald (QEII Foundation) and Dr. Martin Gardner (QEII’s Inherited Heart Disease Clinic) pictured with Jordan’s parents and brother, Stephen, Debbie and Greg. The group recently celebrated more than $1 million raised for inherited heart disease research at the QEII. Uncharted Creative Media

A son and brother’s lasting legacy Family celebrates more than $1 million raised in honour of Jordan Boyd By Nicole Topple This past July marked an incredible milestone for the Boyd family and the QEII Foundation as they officially surpassed more than $1 million raised to date in honour of Jordan Boyd. The Boyd family and the QEII Foundation marked the moment during the first-ever Jordan Boyd Celebrity Golf Challenge powered by CIBC, a day on the green that included 144 golfers, glorious sunshine and a special hole dedicated to the late 16-year-old hockey player. From the time he was old

enough to look out a window, Jordan would watch in awe at his older brother and the neighborhood kids playing street hockey. He couldn’t wait to play the game. As a toddler first learning to walk, Jordan found a cut-off hockey stick and ran around the house with it, whacking everything in sight. At three years old, Jordan was already on skates and a lifelong love and talent for hockey immediately followed. Over the years, Jordan’s name has become synonymous with

The funds raised by the Boyds and the community that stands behind them are having a direct and immediate impact on inherited heart disease research and care. – Dr. Martin Gardner

“Depending on their medical history, a recipient could be incompatible with 99 per cent of the donor population,” she says. This new technology, which is known as real-time PCR, uses sequence-specific primers and GFP chemistry to detect the amplification of target DNA sequences. “It used to take about twoand-a-half hours of hands-on work to HLA type a donor,” Dr. Greenshields says. “This has cut that down by about 90 per cent.” The previous HLA genotyping procedure is still in daily use and is efficient for processing larger volumes all at once, notes HLA Typing Laboratory medical director Dr. Robert Liwski. “But if you need to do just one test, and you need it done quickly, then the real-time technology is far superior.” As the only transplant centre east of Quebec, the QEII serves the entire Atlantic region, with potential recipients waiting for organs in all four provinces. When an organ donation becomes available, an elaborate series of events is put in motion, with intricate logistics involving testing, transportation, scheduling and personnel. “If the donor is on life support, the longer the testing takes, the greater the potential for damage to the organ, because the donor is not in a normal physiological condition,” says Dr. Liwski. Dr. Liwski says HLA genotyping is used to prioritize recipients for organ donation as it determines compatibility. “The better we can match donors and recipients, the better the outcome. There is a shortage of donors, so when we find a recipient who is a close match, we can prioritize that patient to receive a transplant,” he says. Several years ago, Dr. Liwski and his team developed a protocol to reduce the time

needed for crossmatch, the final antibody test used to determine donor/recipient compatibility, where laboratory technologists combine patient serum with donor cells to screen for antibodies that could harm the donor organ. This, combined with the realtime PCR technology, can reduce the entire work-up time from 12 or 13 hours to as low as six. These time savings will now become even more significant as Nova Scotia adopts “deemed consent” for organ donation and increases the number of organ donors. QEII Blood Transfusion Services medical director Dr. Jason Quinn says this new technology can also be used for blood cell genotyping for transfusions. “It’s not that common to have genetic testing expertise in blood transfusion,” he says. “It’s not typically part of the field, but it offers numerous benefits to patients undergoing a blood transfusion.” Similar to patients who develop HLA antibodies, people who’ve had a previous transfusion or have been pregnant can develop antibodies directed against red blood cells, creating problems with transfusions. This can put them at risk for a hemolytic transfusion reaction. A hemolytic transfusion reaction might be mild, but it could also be severe or even life-threatening. In certain cases, genotyping can be used to find matches between donor red cells and recipients. The current procedure for patients who need genotyping to receive compatible blood is to send samples to Canadian Blood Services’ reference lab, which can provide genetic testing. “It can take a few weeks to get the results back, but the patient might need a transfusion in the next few hours or even minutes,” Dr. Quinn says. “Now we will be able to have results within hours, which will greatly improve the safety and quality in some of our complicated transfusion cases.”

impact, not just within the tightknit Bedford community from which he was raised or among the many friends, families and fellow hockey players he met playing the game he loved. Jordan’s story and the national movement established in his memory has helped keep the hockey player’s legacy alive, all while improving the lives of those facing inherited heart disease in our region. In 2013, while attending the hockey training camp of the Acadie-Bathurst Titan, Jordan’s life came to an unexpected end after he collapsed on the ice. It was later determined that Jordan had an undiagnosed, inherited heart condition called Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC). He was 16 years old. Ever since, Jordan’s family have made it their personal mission to help prevent sudden death from cardiac arrest, whether by raising awareness of genetic heart conditions, funding AED access or fueling vital heart health research at the QEII’s Inherited Heart Disease Clinic. Their inspiring efforts have included the annual Jordan Boyd Celebrity Hockey Challenge, a one-day hockey event where participants have the chance to play with local NHL pros, and the Jordan Boyd Celebrity Golf Challenge, a newly outdoor event to abide by COVID-19 protocols. The family and the QEII Foundation have raised $1,058,080 (net) since 2014, which is a testament to their unwavering commitment to raising funds and awareness in Jordan’s honour. QEII cardiologist, Dr. Martin Gardner, has seen this impact firsthand. He’s the founder and director of the QEII’s Inherited

Heart Disease Clinic, which is one of the proud beneficiaries of the family’s generosity. The QEII clinic — the first of its kind in Canada — leads the country in the diagnosis, treatment and research of those living with known, or suspected, genetic cardiac conditions. For Dr. Gardner, it’s a research need that cannot be understated. Nova Scotia currently has the second-highest incidence of ARVC — the condition Jordan was living with — in Canada. “The funds raised by the Boyds and the community that stands behind them are having a direct and immediate impact on inherited heart disease research and care,” says Dr. Gardner. “Jordan’s legacy is truly moving the needle forward in this area.” From centre ice to the green, the Boyd family has inspired us all with their passion and dedication, not only ensuring that Jordan is remembered for the remarkable young man and athlete he was, but for all the good now done in his name. For Jordan's older brother, Greg Dobson, it's a feeling that's hard to describe. “It’s amazing to see how the community has come together to support us in this journey and to see how Jordan’s story has been able to raise awareness and funds for critical and life-saving inherited heart disease research,” says Greg. “We are so in awe of the support we continue to receive year after year and are so grateful to be able to keep Jordan’s legacy alive through these initiatives.” On behalf of the QEII Foundation and all those touched by inherited heart disease in our region, thank you, Boyd family, and congratulations on this incredible milestone.

FALL 2021

Jaime Custance (left) and Gail Henry (right) are part of the QEII’s interventional radiology team. Their department is one of 58 healthcare teams who recently received the first QEII Patient Essentials Fund grants; a new, patient gift card program that will grow and evolve with donor support. QEII Foundation

Gift (cards) from the heart QEII Patient Essentials Fund gift cards are a small gesture with great impact for patients By Sara Ericsson A simple gesture can have a big impact, especially during COVID-19. This is something that the interventional radiology (IR) team at the QEII Health Sciences Centre has experienced firsthand with a new QEII Foundation initiative, called the QEII Patient Essentials Fund, which helps patients in need in the form of gift cards. With many IR patients often travelling to the QEII from all over Atlantic Canada, department manager Vicki Sorhaindo says a gas card can make a big difference and can ease financial stress, which in turn can positively impact patient outcomes. “Mental health and wellbeing are always important for any patient or person. This is something we can do to help our patients feel more comfortable coming to the hospital,” she says. ‘LISTENING AND ROOTING FOR YOU’ Whether treating a stroke, blood clot or tumour, the QEII’s interventional radiology team treats disease through minimally invasive procedures that use tubes and wires to deliver and target treatment to a specific organ. Vicki says that since the QEII treats patients from across Atlantic Canada, patients are often faced with costs that add up fast. So when Vicki and her team learned of the QEII Patient Essentials Fund, which funds gift cards for gas, groceries and personal care, they knew this could greatly benefit IR patients. “We knew this was something that was needed,” says Vicki. Since receiving the grant, Vicki and her fellow IR team members LPN Gail Henry and imaging attendant Jaime Custance have been helping pinpoint which patients could benefit from these donor-funded gift cards. As both Jaime and Gail are in contact with patients even before their in-person IR appointments, they have a good idea of who could use a helping hand. “One of our first patients we gave a gas card to was an elderly man. He was nervous coming in, but such a lovely soul — so kind and accommodating. We gave him a gas gift card and it made him so happy,” says Jaime. “It’s so important that our patients know we’re listening and rooting for them. We want to make it easier if we can, and it’s an amazing feeling for us as well when we get to.” MORE DONATIONS NEEDED The IR department is one of 58 teams that have now received grants through the QEII Foundation’s QEII Patient Essentials Fund. So far $29,000 in gift cards has been awarded, spanning QEII care areas like cancer care, transplantation,

cardiovascular surgery and more. With the continued support of donors, the QEII Foundation hopes to distribute at least $50,000 in gift cards over the next year. This simple support can really go a long way for patients, as Jaime and Gail have seen from the IR patients who’ve already received these donor-funded gift cards, including a man who had to arrange a caregiver to stay with his wife before driving to Halifax and booking a hotel near the QEII for his appointment.

These patients coming into the QEII could be any of us, and this is an opportunity to just give them a helping hand. Our frontline healthcare workers are able to see what people need, and what will make a difference.

long way. “This is something a lot of donors out there can support – even small amounts will help. Every dollar donated will have a huge impact on patients,” she says. Your donation today will enable the

immediate purchase of these gift cards – ensuring they’re in the hands of patients who need them most. To learn more about the QEII Patient Essentials Fund or donate today, visit QE2Foundation.ca/ essentials.

Kenny Zhan QEII radiation therapist

– Susan Mullin

“It was a big expense for him to come, so we also gave him a gas card. We saw how it was a comforting thing, for him to receive that. We want our patients to know we are listening, and we do care,” says Gail. QEII Foundation President and CEO Susan Mullin says the program was launched to help patients stay focused on their healthcare journeys by reducing financial stresses that many face. The QEII Patient Essentials Fund is 100 per cent donor funded and QEII care providers are able to make the decision on the spot regarding patients who may need some financial support — as soon as their need for help arises. “These patients coming into the QEII could be any of us, and this is an opportunity to just give them a helping hand. Our frontline healthcare workers are able to see what people need, and what will make a difference,” says Susan. “Our donors are already having an immediate and tangible impact on the lives of patients and their families. This impact will continue to grow with ongoing support from our community.” Vicki says with many departments around the hospital that could really benefit from the QEII Patient Essentials Fund, it’s something donors should consider supporting, no matter how small the donation. A little can absolutely go a

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FALL 2021

QEII cardiologist, Dr. Wael Sumaya, recently received a Maritime Heart Centre Innovation Fund grant, funded by QEII Foundation donors, for his upcoming research. Dr. Sumaya’s study will compare the effects of two different treatment strategies to determine the effects on markers for bleeding and clotting risk. QEII Foundation

Clinical study the first to compare cardiology treatments The QEII’s Dr. Wael Sumaya wants to match the right treatment to the right patient By Colleen Cosgrove Surviving a heart attack is the first step on a long road to recovery and Dr. Wael Sumaya wants to get more specific about what type of treatment each patient really needs, based on how well their body clots blood. A cardiologist at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, Dr. Sumaya and his team of researchers are studying the effects of two different treatments on cardiology patients post heart attack. Funded by QEII Foundation donors through a Maritime Heart Centre Innovation Fund grant, Dr. Sumaya will compare the effects of the two

different treatment strategies to determine the effects on markers for bleeding and clotting risk. Dr. Sumaya was first introduced to research during his training in Sheffield, England and was awarded a PhD for his studies in this field. Blood thinners are key to improving outcomes after a heart attack. Two blood thinners are usually needed in the first year but beyond the initial period, patients have been traditionally managed with aspirin alone. However, one in five patients dies or suffers a non-fatal heart attack or stroke within three years after surviving the first year.

To try and improve outcomes, additional blood thinner therapy may be needed and Dr. Sumaya and his team will look at two different blood thinners to look for clues as to which one is safer or more effective. The upcoming study narrows in on the health outcomes of 20 patients who experienced a heart attack more than 12 months ago and who are coping with chronic coronary syndrome, otherwise known as stable coronary artery disease. A common affliction of patients with heart disease, chronic coronary syndrome is a condition that can be altered and

Dr. Corey Smith, QEII Foundation Scholar in Retina Research, is focused on developing ways of diagnosing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in the early stages to prevent and reduce vision loss in people over 50. Contributed

Vision quest QEII Foundation Scholar will open new avenues in ophthalmology research By Joey Fitzpatrick Of the five human senses, vision is typically regarded as the most precious. For people suffering the effects of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects 1.4 million Canadians and is the leading cause of vision loss in people over age 50, early diagnosis is critical in preventing and reducing vision loss. “While there is no cure for AMD, there are treatment methods for some forms of it,” says Dr. Corey Smith. “We really need to develop ways of finding the markers of this disease early on.” In April 2021, Dr. Smith assumed his new role as QEII

Foundation Scholar in Retina Research with that long-term goal top of mind. Supported by funds that are permanently invested, QEII Foundation scholars are catalysts for change, conducting long-term research in a dedicated field. “It’s actually quite rare to have a PhD researcher in a clinical department who does not have clinical duties,” Dr. Smith says. “This allows us to conduct dedicated research in the ophthalmology department.” Dr. Smith’s research will progress with the collaboration of ophthalmologists and retinal

specialists who encounter people with retinal diseases every day, but also researchers, support staff, trainees and patients. He says early detection, monitoring and development of new treatment are all areas where breakthroughs could potentially arise. “We will be able to ask research questions based on clinical observations and hopefully come up with answers that help us better understand and treat these retinal diseases,” he adds. With more than 20 clinicians and researchers — and patients referred from across the Atlantic provinces — the QEII’s

improved by lifestyle changes and medical interventions like the one Dr. Sumaya and his team are researching. “I was really interested in trying to understand the mechanisms of why some patients do very well after a heart attack and why a certain percentage of patients don’t do very well,” says Dr. Sumaya. “It’s a relatively small study, but it’s a start that will help us get clues as to which treatment is better. Then it may lead to further, bigger studies in the future.” To start finding the answers they seek, Dr. Sumaya will measure patients’ bleeding time and other blood markers of increased risk and compare the effects of the two treatment strategies. In medicine today, there are two treatment strategies and both have been shown to improve patient outcomes, but both come with an increased risk of bleeding. Dr. Sumaya’s hypothesis suggests one of the two treatment options might have less impact on bleeding time. The team will compare the effects of these two different treatment strategies on each participant’s different markers of bleeding and clotting risk and thus determine which treatment is best for each patient group. Study participants manage additional risk factors, like diabetes, chronic kidney disease or having experienced multiple strokes or heart attacks in the past. The study aims to compare how the two drugs affect patient outcomes, which will mark the first time these two treatment options are being studied together. “With any anti-clotting drug, there is a penalty. Both medications improved outcomes in terms of frequent heart attacks or strokes, but then the penalty was increased risk of bleeding,” says Dr. Sumaya. Currently, patients with chronic coronary syndrome who are taking blood thinners must be wary of cuts, scrapes and spontaneous bleeds, which are rare but worrisome for patients

ophthalmology department is renowned as a research centre. Department head Dr. Marcelo Nicolela says the new position will enhance the work of its retinal specialists. “We are well known for our research on glaucoma, as well as in ocular genetics, pediatric ophthalmology and retina, but we want to build on that expertise and expand retina research, with more studies initiated here,” Dr. Nicolela says. Dr. Smith will bring his expertise in medical imaging to bear on the two diseases most frequently encountered by retinal specialists: age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. “Imaging plays a huge role in ophthalmology,” Dr. Smith explains. “Being able to image the retinal tissue of the eye to see what is happening inside is an important part of patient care.” Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging procedure in which the eye is scanned by light, with the captured images allowing physicians to view the different layers of the retina, the thin tissue at the back of the eye. Imaging technology is constantly evolving and improving, Dr. Smith points out. “New devices and ways to acquire images are constantly being developed. Now we can actually see blood flow in the eye, without any invasive procedure.” The question Dr. Smith will be looking to answer will look at determining how these images can best be used. For example, images can now be acquired in three dimensions, but the traditional methods of interpreting those images are still mostly based on just two dimensions. “That’s for a variety of reasons

and their caregivers. “It’s often very difficult to select the right patients who will benefit from intensive anticlotting treatment. One of the goals of this study will help us define that,” says Dr. Sumaya. The study is in collaboration with The Cardiovascular Research Group at Dalhousie University. The 12-month study will begin once approved by the Research Ethics Board. The research team will employ a crossover design, in which patients will receive one of the two treatments to start, followed by a washout period or pause

Ultimately, it’s a medical therapy that will reduce the chances of future events. – Dr. Wael Sumaya

from any treatments and end with the other treatment regimen. The goal is to determine which patient groups respond best to each treatment. “We want to tease out which patients will benefit the most from more intensive therapy, while maintaining the risk of bleeding at a minimal cost,” says Dr. Sumaya. As an interventional cardiologist, he knows the results will help give more people healthy years ahead. “Ultimately, it’s a medical therapy that will reduce the chances of future events,” he says. “My research studies treatments that aims to reduce the chances of patients coming back with further heart attacks or strokes in the future.”

— it’s computationally faster to look at just two-dimensional slices,” he says. “But these diseases happen in three dimensions, and so maybe we’re missing something by not using those images to their full potential.” Dr. Smith says developing tools and software for analyzing images in three dimensions will be breaking new ground. “There have been some research papers on this subject, but not a lot that has been made available for clinical use,” he says.

At the end of the day it’s about bringing benefits to patients and improving patient care. –Dr. Marcelo Nicolela

The value of obtaining threedimensional data will increase significantly as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent in medicine, he adds. “Artificial intelligence is not my area of expertise, but it’s not inconceivable that one day AI will be used to help guide patient care. This is why collaboration is so important in research.” As imaging technology continues to evolve, it will offer great potential for understanding retinal diseases and their progression, Dr. Nicolela adds. “At the end of the day it’s about bringing benefits to patients and improving patient care.”