Accessing the Care You Need:
Your Guide to Concordia Hospital’s Extended Hours Clinic
We know that your health and the health of your family are important. That’s why we want to ensure that you have convenient access to services and answers to your health concerns.
Illness or injury doesn’t adhere to a 9 to 5 schedule. The Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic (EHPCC) at Concordia Hospital is your solution for swift, accessible, and top-notch care for minor health issues beyond regular clinic hours.
EHPCC is ideal for anyone with pressing medical concerns when their family doctor or health care provider is unavailable. It is also ideal for anyone who may not have a family doctor. EHPCC is open in the evenings, on weekends, and even on holidays.
The clinic works like your family doctor’s or health care provider’s office. You’ll see doctors, nurses or other healthcare providers who can treat things like:
• Headaches, earaches, back pain
• Rashes or skin ailments
Sore throat, cough, fever
Nose bleeds
• Sore eyes with redness or infection
• Diarrhea and vomiting or indigestion
• Urinary tract infections
• Frostbite
Joint swelling
• Breastfeeding issues
• Sexually transmitted diseases and testing
Ongoing management of chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes
LEAP OF FAITH: TRADING PAIN FOR POSSIBILITY
When Walking Hurts, Healing Begins
By Kaleigh Ewonchuk, Staff Writer
Undergoing major surgery such as knee arthroplasty (knee replacement) can be daunting. The fear of the unknown— combined with the pain and uncertainty of recovery—leads many to hesitate or even put off the decision entirely. But for some, like Eva Peters, the choice becomes clear after years of chronic pain.
Eva began struggling with knee pain in early 2015. Over time, the discomfort became so severe that simple, everyday tasks became physically exhausting. She shared a moment that captured just how debilitating it had become:
“I remember going to teach VBS at the church, and I had to stop the car in between just to keep going—just to get those few miles to the church.”
Like many others, Eva was hesitant to consider surgery. She tried alternate methods: knee braces, pain-relieving medications, and anything that might offer relief. But nothing worked. After nearly a decade of enduring worsening pain, she underwent her first knee replacement in 2023. Two years later, in early 2025, she had the second knee replaced.
When I asked if there was a defining moment that pushed her to go through with the surgery, her answer was simple, yet deeply moving:
“I wanted to live life.”
That answer struck me. It was a reminder of how easily we—myself included—take mobility
Eva Peters sat down with us to talk about her healing journey with knee pain. She is grateful to Dr. Hedden and Concordia for helping get her life back.
Fall 2025 | Vol. 4. No. 3
The Concordia Connection is a publication of The Concordia Foundation Inc.
Registered Charity # 13036-3336-RR0001
Who We Are
The Concordia Foundation Inc. is a registered charitable public foundation incorporated under the Corporations Act of Manitoba. Rooted in faithbased values and a vibrant Mennonite heritage, we serve as the philanthropic partner for the broader Concordia Campus community, which includes Concordia Hospital, Concordia Place personal care home, Concordia Village housing, Concordia Wellness Projects Inc., the Concordia Arthroplasty Research Chair, and the Concordia Child Care Centre. As part of our humanitarian efforts, we also support Operation Walk Manitoba.
1095 Concordia Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R2K 3S8
204-926-7849 | 204-926-7833
www.Concordiafoundation.ca
E-mail: info@concordiafoundation.ca
Publisher: The Concordia Foundation
Editor-in-Chief: Sue Barkman
Design and Layout: Blue Ink Media
Ad Coordinator: Judy Mercer, Alex Peters Digital Edition: concordiafoundation.ca
Advertising and Sponsorships
Contact the Concordia Foundation to inquire about sponsorships of our events and advertising in this publication.
E-mail: info@concordiafoundation.ca
Contributors
Sue Barkman, Kaleigh Ewonchuk, Alex Peters, Carla Mendres
Distribution
This publication is distributed throughout the Concordia Campus, including waiting areas, lobbies, the Concordia Café and our clinics. Thank you to our supporting businesses for having this available in their public areas. Special thanks to Laurie Finley and CanStar, The Winnipeg Free Press and Derksen Printers for the distribution to 18,000 households and to Print Pro for the donor mail drop. This publication is also available for download digitally at www. concordiafoundation.ca
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: The Concordia Foundation Inc.
1095 Concordia Avenue Winnipeg, MB R2K 3S8
Reproduction in whole or in part is available with written permission from the publisher
Copyright © The Concordia Foundation 2025
Welcome to the Fall 2025 Edition of Concordia Connection
At Concordia, our story is rooted in community, compassion, and commitment. Every day, our teams of healthcare professionals, volunteers, donors, and partners collaborate to ensure that patients, residents, and their families receive not only exceptional care but also kindness, dignity, and hope. This publication is one way we share those stories with you — stories of lives touched, challenges overcome, and the lasting impact of generosity.
Inside, you’ll read about groundbreaking advancements like the opening of the Patel Simulated Learning Centre, where hands-on training is shaping the future of patient safety. You’ll meet inspiring patients, like Eva Peters, who courageously chose healing through joint replacement surgery. You’ll also see how programs such as the Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic are providing vital access to care when it’s needed most.
Beyond the walls of the hospital, our mission continues. Operation Walk Manitoba prepares once again to restore mobility and dignity for patients in Nicaragua who would otherwise have no access to life-changing surgery as they travel in November to offer hope and healing. At home, Concordia Place is renewing spaces to ensure residents live in comfort and dignity, while community partners and local businesses are stepping up in creative ways to support our cause.
Each story reflects a common truth: together, we are stronger.
The Concordia Foundation exists to connect
your generosity with the programs and people who need it most. Every donation, sponsorship, and act of volunteerism helps us deliver compassionate care close to home and extend hope across borders.
As you will note throughout these pages, the spirit of Concordia is alive in every story we share. From innovations in healthcare to the quiet, everyday moments of compassion, our mission remains clear: to serve with caring, commitment, and community at the heart of all we do.
None of this would be possible without you — our donors, volunteers, partners, and friends. Your generosity fuels progress, uplifts patients and families, and ensures that our care extends far beyond the walls of our hospital and centres. Together, we are creating brighter tomorrows and building a legacy of hope for generations to come.
On behalf of all of us at the Concordia Foundation, thank you for taking the time to connect with us through this publication. We invite you to stay engaged, stay inspired, and continue walking alongside us as we strive to make a meaningful difference, one life at a time.
As you turn these pages, we invite you to celebrate what has been achieved, be inspired by the journeys shared, and consider the role you can play in shaping what comes next. Thank you for being part of the Concordia community.
With gratitude,
The Concordia Foundation Team
Inspiring Generosity: Ed and Lily Schreyer’s Lasting Impact
We were delighted to welcome Ed and Lily Schreyer to Concordia recently. Their visit was made even more special by Lily’s generous donation of several new pieces of her incredible artwork. Lily’s art brings warmth, beauty, and inspiration to our space, and we are truly honoured to display her work throughout the hospital and the clinics. Her creativity and kindness continue to brighten the walls — and the hearts — of everyone who visits. Her artwork is a true masterpiece that spans numerous landscapes, compelling you to stop and reflect on each piece. Thank you, Ed and Lily, for your ongoing support and generosity. Your contributions make a meaningful difference in our healing environment. And thank you to this wonderful couple who have served the Province of Manitoba for so many years of public service. We are so grateful for people like them. We stand on the shoulders of giants.
Win a Dream Trip to Tuscany!
Presented by Operation Walk Manitoba, Continental Travel, and Daryl Silver
Experience Italy Like a Local
Get ready for an unforgettable week-long escape for two in Tuscany — a true bucket-list destination now within your reach. This is not just a vacation; it’s an immersive journey into the heart and soul of Italian life.
Brought to you by I Am Tuscany, this once-in-alifetime experience invites you to wander rolling hills, visit family-run farms, and enjoy world-class wines — all while staying in a carefully chosen heritage villa. Your host, Irene Gren, a native of Tuscany, has dedicated her life to creating authentic, off-thebeaten-path experiences for her guests.
From intimate vineyard tastings to cooking meals with ingredients straight from the garden, from
collecting water at a village fountain to sharing espresso with locals — this is La Dolce Vita as it was meant to be lived.
Why Tuscany?
It’s easy to picture the grand art galleries of Florence or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but the true soul of Tuscany lies in its simplicity. Think of strolls down sun-dappled country lanes, meals prepared with freshly picked produce, and glasses of wine sipped beneath olive trees. This is the rhythm of real Italian life.
Thanks to Irene, you’ll experience it all:
• Charming, locally owned accommodations
Exclusive tastings and behind-the-scenes tours
Tables reserved at her favourite hidden trattorias
• Authentic moments far from the tourist crowds
This is more than a vacation. This is belonging. Proceeds: 100% of proceeds support Operation Walk Manitoba’s 2025 mission to Nicaragua
• Winner Announced: At Fiesta Con Causa on October 16, 2025, at 8:30 PM
• Grand Prize Includes:
D Roundtrip airfare for two
D 7-day curated Tuscan experience with I Am Tuscany, hosted by Irene Gren
This is a silent auction of a 100% donated trip. For information or to offer a silent bid please email us at info@operationwalkmb.ca or phone 204-813-4354
All online bid donors are private and confidential. Please email us at info@operationwalkmb.ca or call us at 204-813-4354. We will post the amount of the latest bid and email you with that information if you want to increase your bid and win this trip.
Starting bid is $8,500
Bids received in increments of $100 only up to 8 :00 pm on October 16. The highest bid that we receive by 8:00 pm on October 16 will be the winner. We will require full payment of your bid before we release the certificate of travel. If we do not receive payment within 24 hours, the next bid will be declared the winner.
Locally Roasted, Deeply Rooted
By Kaleigh Ewonchuck,
Colosimo Coffee Roasters welcomed me with open arms—and some of the finest coffee I’ve ever tasted. From the very first sip to the heartfelt stories shared by owner Jay and GM Inna, it’s clear this place is built on passion, perseverance, and connection.
What sets them apart? It’s more than just great coffee (though the espresso is phenomenal). It’s the unmatched experience they offer every customer, every visit.
Locally owned and operated, Colosimo Coffee Roasters welcomed me with open arms, sharing their story over some of the finest coffee I’ve had the pleasure of tasting.
From the moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the warmth of the space. My first visit left a lasting impression—not just because of the coffee, but because of the people. Jay Colosimo, the owner, along with his incredible staff, made me feel like a regular. They were kind, knowledgeable, and genuinely inviting.
So, when I had the chance to sit down with Jay and Inna, the general manager, I was thrilled. Their stories are rich with passion, perseverance, and the kind of grit that stays with you.
Jay’s journey began in Calgary, where he studied to become a teacher. While in university, he worked part-time at a local coffee roaster and eventually became their brand ambassador.
That experience sparked something deeper—a love for coffee and connection. Years later, Jay returned to Winnipeg and launched what would eventually grow into Colosimo Coffee.
Like many small businesses, Colosimo was deeply impacted during the pandemic. But instead
of pausing, Jay pivoted. During quarantine, he opened their first storefront at 154 Pacific Avenue.
“It was difficult,” Jay recalled. “Because the day we opened, we were putting tables and chairs away. People thought we were out of our minds for opening when everybody else was closing.”
Since then, Colosimo has only continued to grow, with new locations and a loyal customer base.
Inna’s story is equally compelling. Originally from Ukraine, she moved to Dubai, where she worked as a barista. In 2022, she and her husband relocated to Winnipeg. One day, while looking for a good cup of coffee, they stepped into Colosimo. Not long after, Inna joined the team—and today, she plays a vital role in the company’s continued success.
One question I was eager to ask: What makes Colosimo Coffee so special?
It’s something you feel the moment you walk through the door. And Jay summed it up perfectly:
“We don’t compromise on the experience we want to provide to people who choose to come into our stores. Whether you’re the first in that morning or the last out at the end of the day, whether you come in every morning or it’s your first visit, we want the experience to be unmatched—every visit, every time, every customer.”
Jay and his team work tirelessly to create a space where everyone feels seen, appreciated, and welcomed. Their passion for coffee is rivaled only by their passion for people.
As a coffee lover, I was thrilled to sample their range—from expertly brewed pour over drip coffees to rich, bold espressos. Every cup was exceptional. What truly sets Colosimo Coffee apart isn’t just
their commitment to quality—it’s their heart. Jay, Inna, and the entire team pour a deep love for their craft into every roast, every conversation, and every corner of their café.
If you haven’t been yet, I highly recommend a visit. You’ll be welcomed like family—and you’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for what great coffee can be.
We were thrilled to welcome the Colosimo Coffee team to the Concordia Classic Golf Tournament on August 13 at Elmhurst Golf and Country Club. They served our golfers and guests an exceptional cup of coffee upon their arrival, as well as had a special blend of beans available for sale in our honour.
#SupportLocal #ColosimoCoffee #WinnipegEats
#LocalRoaster #CoffeeWithHeart #CafeVibes #ManitobaMade #CommunityFirst
staff writer
Jay Colosimo, Owner and Master-brewer has found a special calling that combined good coffee brewed with care and caring for the community.
Let’s Take Stock!
By Carla Mendres, Director of Food and Nutrition Services Concordia Village
The best soups and sauces all begin with a good-quality stock. For centuries, people have simmered bones to draw out the nutrition and healing benefits found in various parts of animals.
So, what’s the difference between broth and stock? It’s simple: broth is water enhanced with flavour, while stock is a rich rendering of collagen from bones. When simmered, collagen transforms into gelatin — the stuff that gives your stock body, richness, and a satisfying jiggle when cooled. That jiggle isn’t just for show — it’s a sign that your stock is packed with nutrients. Which support healthy joints, hair, skin, and nails.
The more gelatin in your stock, the more nourishing and flavourful it will be. Younger animals typically have more collagen in their bones, which is why veal bones are prized in highend kitchens. But beef bones work just fine — and they’re what I usually use. That said, I don’t often have beef stock on hand because I rarely cook beef with bones these days (have you seen the prices?). Instead, I save every chicken bone I can get — and yes, I shamelessly pirate turkey carcasses from friends and family after Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you buy rotisserie chickens, save those bones too. Just toss them in a freezer bag and stash them away until you’ve got enough for a pot.
Getting Started: The Basics of Stock
Always start your stock with cold water. Certain proteins only dissolve in cold water and help clarify the liquid, giving you a clearer, more appealing result. With bones ready, it’s time to add aromatics. The classic vegetable base is called mirepoix — typically 50% onions, 25% carrots, and 25% celery. You don’t need to be too precise, though; I usually just toss in a chopped onion, a couple of carrots, and a few stalks of celery.
Adding a bit of acid (like tomato paste, white wine, or lemon juice) helps break down the cartilage and draws out even more nutrients. Just don’t use an aluminum pot — go with stainless steel, ceramic, or enameled cast iron instead.
Ideal Stock Proportions (But Don’t Stress)
8 lbs bones
• 2 cups chopped onions
• 1 cup carrots
• 1 cup celery
5 quarts water
• A few bay leaves
If you’re going for precision, great — but don’t let the measurements scare you. Stock is forgiving.
Herbs, Spices & Salt: Use Caution
You can add flavourings like a sachet d’épices (a spice bundle) or a bouquet garni (fresh herbs tied in twine or wrapped in a leek leaf). But unless I know exactly how I’ll use the stock, I leave these out, so I have a blank canvas. For example, if I add rosemary and thyme, that stock won’t work later for something like pho (a Vietnamese soup, typically
made from beef stock and spices).
Tip: Never add salt to your stock — you’ll season it later when you use it in a dish.
Roasting and Cooking
If you’re not starting with saved bones, rub fresh ones with olive oil and roast at 425°F until they’re browned. This adds deep flavour. You can also caramelize your veggies in a bit of olive oil and add your acid at this stage.
Important tip: Never let your stock come to a rolling boil. Boiling emulsifies the fat and turns the stock cloudy. Instead, let it simmer gently for 8–12 hours. I usually find 8 hours is plenty.
Strain the finished stock through cheesecloth, portion it, and freeze. I often start mine before bed and let it simmer overnight.
If you want an ultra-clear stock, there’s a method called “rafting” used in restaurants — I can explain that another time, but for most home cooks, it’s not necessary.
Now you’ve got a golden, nutrient-rich stock on hand for soups, sauces, risottos, and more!
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup by Carla
This creamy, fragrant soup is the perfect way to showcase your homemade stock.
Ingredients:
• 1 large butternut squash, roasted (see note)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 tbsp Madras curry powder
2 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 4 cups homemade stock
• 1 cup orange juice
1 tbsp (or more to taste) chicken soup base powder
• ½ tsp chili flakes
• 1 cup cream (or a can of full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option or evaporated milk)
Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, oregano — or use a frozen cube)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil and sauté the onions, garlic, ginger, and curry powder until the spices are fragrant.
2. Add the stock, orange juice, roasted squash, soup base powder, and chili flakes.
3. Simmer until the squash is soft and everything is well blended.
4. Puree with an immersion blender (or regular blender) until silky smooth.
5. Stir in the cream or coconut milk, and add herbs to taste.
6. Heat to desired temperature and serve!
7. Note: To roast the squash, cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, brush with olive oil, and roast at 400°F for 45–60 minutes until tender. Scoop out the flesh for the soup.
How to Clarify Stock at Home Using a Raft (Without the Fuss)
If you want to make your homemade stock crystalclear — maybe for a fancy soup or just to impress yourself — you can use a simplified version of the rafting technique. It takes a little time and care, but no special equipment.
You’ll need:
• 4 cups cold, strained homemade stock (beef, chicken, or veggie — the richer, the better)
1–2 egg whites
• ½ cup chopped lean ground meat (optional — use chicken or turkey breast if available)
¼ cup chopped onion
¼ cup chopped celery
• ¼ cup chopped carrot
• 1 small spoonful of tomato paste (optional — helps with colour and acid)
• Salt to taste (add after clarifying, not before)
Step-by-step:
1. Chill your stock completely.
2. This process works best when the stock is cold, straight from the fridge.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the egg whites, ground meat (if using), chopped veggies, and tomato paste.
4. Gently stir the mixture into your cold stock in a medium saucepan.
5. Slowly heat the pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally just until the mixture starts to warm and proteins begin to rise to the surface. Then stop stirring.
6. As it heats, a foamy, messy-looking mass (the “raft”) will float to the top and begin to firm up. This is good — it’s trapping all the bits that make your stock cloudy.
7. Once the raft forms fully (about 20–30 minutes), use a ladle to carefully draw the clear liquid from beneath or through a small hole in the raft.
8. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a clean tea towel.
9. Taste and season lightly with salt if needed.
Pro Tip:
Don’t expect restaurant-level polish your first time — but you’ll still end up with a beautifully clear, deeply flavourful broth that’s elegant enough to sip on its own or use in light, refined soups like consommé, clear chicken noodle, or pho.
What Is Phở?
Phở is a noodle soup that typically includes:
• Clear, aromatic broth — made by simmering beef or chicken bones for hours with spices like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and onion.
• Rice noodles — flat and silky, called bánh phở.
• Meat — often thinly sliced raw beef (which cooks in the hot broth), cooked brisket, meatballs, or shredded chicken.
• Fresh garnishes — usually served on the side, including:
D Bean sprouts
D Thai basil
D Lime wedges
D Fresh chili slices
D Hoisin sauce or sriracha (optional)
Why People Love It
Phở is celebrated for being: Comforting yet light
• Rich in flavour, thanks to long-simmered bones and toasted spices
• Fully customizable — everyone gets to “build their bowl” to taste
In Vietnam, phở is often eaten for breakfast, but it’s enjoyed any time of day around the world.
Operation Walk: Restoring Mobility, Transforming Lives
Operation Walk was founded in 1996 by Dr. Lawrence D. Dorr, a pioneering orthopedic surgeon from Los Angeles. A founder of both the Knee Society and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, Dr. Dorr established Operation Walk to bring life-changing joint replacement surgeries to patients who would otherwise have no access to such care.
Since its founding, Operation Walk and its numerous international teams have performed over 17,000 surgeries in 25 countries, spanning from Russia to Peru. Beyond its global outreach, the initiative has inspired the creation of 20 additional mission teams across the United States, Canada, and Europe. These teams carry forward Operation Walk’s mission by providing free surgeries to underprivileged patients living with chronic, debilitating joint pain—restoring their mobility, independence, and dignity.
Operation Walk Manitoba, based in Winnipeg, launched in 2011 and completed its first mission to Managua, Nicaragua, in October 2012. Since then, the team has returned annually as an independent mission, working in partnership with physicians, surgeons, and staff at Roberto Calderón Hospital. Nicaragua remains one of the poorest nations in Latin America, with a poverty rate of 12.5% as of 2023. In a country where employment is largely dependent on farming and manual labor, and where transportation options are limited, physical mobility is essential for survival. For those living with hip or knee arthritis, daily life becomes an exhausting struggle. Long distances, lack of access to surgery, and immobility can push already vulnerable families even deeper into poverty.
For Canadians—accustomed to a strong social
support system—the contrast is stark. In Nicaragua, the loss of mobility can mean the loss of livelihood and independence. That reality is what drives Operation Walk Manitoba to help those who cannot afford the surgeries they so desperately need. Many patients have endured decades of pain with little or no hope of ever receiving treatment.
Today, Operation Walk Manitoba’s team includes approximately 70 volunteers: orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, physiotherapists, nurses, translators, and other essential staff. Each year, the team spends one week in Managua, during which they complete more than 70 joint replacement surgeries—often in just three days.
….Our volunteers bring not only surgical care, but also hope, mobility, and a renewed quality of life to those who need it most.”
Every mission is a massive logistical effort, requiring months of planning, fundraising, and coordination. Team members volunteer their time, expertise, and personal funds to make the work possible. Thanks to generous community support, all care is provided free of charge, and the team also leaves behind essential medical supplies to help sustain local healthcare long after the mission ends.
Operation Walk Manitoba is now preparing for its next mission in the fall of 2025. Our work would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our donors.
“Thank you very much for the service you provide for people like me. Not being able to walk, and then with your expertise, you made me a brand-new person.”
Together, they bring not only surgical care but also hope, mobility, and a renewed quality of life to those who need it most.
About Dr. Lawrence D. Dorr (1941–2020)
Dr. Lawrence D. Dorr was a pioneering orthopedic surgeon whose career combined innovation, teaching, and humanitarian service. Based in Los Angeles, he helped transform the field of joint replacement surgery and is remembered as one of its true visionaries.
• Medical Innovation: Founder of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons and a founder of the Knee Society, Dr. Dorr advanced surgical techniques and implant design, improving outcomes for patients worldwide.
• Educator & Mentor: As a professor of orthopedics at the University of Southern California, he trained and inspired generations of surgeons.
• Humanitarian Service: In 1996, he founded Operation Walk, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free hip and knee replacement surgeries in developing countries. His vision has grown into more than 20 teams across North America and Europe, delivering over 17,000 surgeries globally.
Dr. Dorr’s legacy lives on not only through the patients whose lives he transformed, but also through the global network of Operation Walk teams who continue his mission of restoring mobility, dignity, and hope. Operation Walk Manitoba owes him a debt of gratitude for his encouragement and support as we formed our own team to serve others.
Concordia staff writer
October 2024, a patient celebrates a significant milestone after undergoing a successful double knee arthroplasty in Managua, Nicaragua. The moment marks a new beginning, restoring mobility and offering hope for a better quality of life.
Orthopedic surgeon Dr. David Hedden and volunteers receive a token of appreciation from patients and staff located in Managua, Nicaragua, during the 2023 short-term medical mission trip.
Three ward nurses assist a patient following a successful arthroplasty surgery during the 2024 medical mission in Managua, Nicaragua.
A patient and medical staff pose for a photograph following a successful surgery during the 2024 medical mission in Managua, Nicaragua.
From page 1
When are the clinics open?
• Weekdays (M-F): 5:30 pm to 11:30 pm.
Weekends (Sat-Sun): 1:30 pm to 11:30 pm.
• Holidays: 5:30 pm to 11:30 pm. Hours are subject to change.
Your family physician is familiar with you and your medical history, which is important when providing care. While your family doctor should remain your first point of contact, Extended-Hours Primary Care Clinics are an excellent way to supplement that care, giving you an option if your family doctor is unavailable for a period or cannot be seen during regular clinic hours.
All care provided by Extended Hours Primary Care Clinics will be shared with your family doctor if any follow-up is required, which is ideal for patients managing chronic conditions such as diabetes or asthma.
“No
Wrong Door”
In speaking with Lauren Sinclair-Marantz, Manager of Health Services for the Extended-Hours Primary Care Clinics in Winnipeg, she pointed out that there is “no wrong door.” While there is a list of things that this newly opened clinic at Concordia Hospital can take care of, no one should stay away if they are in doubt or need someone to truly see and hear them during a time of need.
No one chooses to be sick, but when it happens, it is comforting to know that Concordia Hospital is a beacon of hope and compassion.
The Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic at Concordia Hospital provides convenient access to healthcare services beyond regular clinic hours. This guide will help you navigate the process of accessing the clinic, understand the services offered, and prepare for your visit.
Our healthcare team members are dedicated to ensuring you have a positive patient experience. Operating since October 23, 2024 at Concordia Lauren pointed out that the new extended-hours clinic opened to the public on October 23, 2024, and will be a permanent program established to support you and your family when other clinics are closed. This after-hours clinic operates from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weeknights and from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weekends.
Concordia Hospital’s front doors are open during this time, and visitors can park in the front lot at a nominal rate. The Security staff will greet you and guide you to the clinic space efficiently and friendly.
Book Ahead Online
You can book a convenient time slot online and reserve a spot for your appointment for same-day booking, or you can also walk in. There is an easyto-use online system to book your appointment.
The clinic is staffed with nurses, primary care assistants and physicians at each shift. You will need to set up an account and then log in to create an appointment.
Book directly here: Medical Navigator
They provide vaccines such as flu or COVID-19 vaccines, and blood work is done on-site, eliminating the need to go to another location, which adds to the stress of being ill.
“We focus on getting people to the best fit for their needs, “says Lauren. “We refer people as needed to specialists and even help find a primary care doctor if needed. We will also communicate your visit to your family physician since they know you the best.”
No Age Limit
The clinic is for all ages, and it is important to note that there is no upper age limit.
Craving fresh, local food with bold flavors and a big heart?
Look no further than BarBurrito in our neighbourhood!
With convenient locations across Winnipeg — including St. Mary’s Avenue, Sterling Lyon Parkway, and Pembina Highway — it’s always easy to enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared meal.
At BarBurrito Kildonan, proudly owned and operated by a brother-sister team, great food goes hand in hand with giving back. This past year, they celebrated their first anniversary at Kildonan Crossing, marking a year of building community connections and serving some of the best Mexicaninspired meals around.
The Concordia Foundation is especially grateful to Rahul and his team for their ongoing generosity, including their support of our annual Concordia Classic Golf Tournament.
When you choose BarBurrito, you’re not just enjoying bold flavors — you’re helping strengthen our community.
A heartfelt thank-you to the entire BarBurrito team for your food, your generosity, and your commitment. We’re proud to have you as part of the Concordia family.
Extended Hours Primary Care Clinics Now Open
“We can assess your needs and refer you to a specialist and a health care delivery to better guide you to your needs, “Lauren pointed out. “Our health care team is exceptional in their warmth and compassion and are here to help guide you.
The Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic at Concordia Hospital is your go-to for prompt healthcare outside regular office hours.
From page 1
Eva’s Leap Of Faith: Trading Pain For Possibility | When Walking Hurts, Healing Begins
for granted: walking, driving, or even just standing without pain.
For people living with chronic joint pain, knee replacement surgery isn’t just a procedure— it’s a path to renewed freedom, independence, and dignity.
Eva’s story also sheds light on the emotional and mental battles patients often face.
The fear of surgery, the unknowns of recovery, and doubts about the outcome can feel overwhelming. But for Eva, the chance to live without constant pain outweighed the fear.
I also had the opportunity to ask Eva about her recovery—a part of the process that often feels like a mystery to those considering the operation. Many of us, myself included, imagine that you have the surgery one day and are walking pain-free the next. But as Eva explained, it’s not that simple.
For people living with chronic joint pain, knee replacement surgery isn’t just a surgical procedure—it’s a path to renewed freedom, independence, and dignity. Recovery is a process—filled with both progress and setbacks. With the support of her family and guidance from her physiotherapist, Eva navigated the hard days and came through stronger. She made it clear to me: it was hard, but it was worth it.
Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and recovery protocols, patients today often experience better outcomes and faster recovery than ever before. Still, it takes courage, commitment, and trust in the journey.
Many people grow accustomed to living in pain, but Eva’s story is a powerful reminder that we don’t have to. Taking that leap—choosing healing over hesitation—can be life-changing.
Thanks to Dr. David Hedden, Orthopedic Surgeon at Concordia Hospital, Eva’s surgeon for his excellent care of his patients and to Eva. The research we do at Concordia in the Arthroplasty Research Lab has enabled us to continue to make strides in surgery that gives people their life back. See more at www.arthroplastyresearchchair.com
The Patel Simulated Learning Centre at Concordia Opens
In a world where clinical emergencies can strike without warning, simulation training gives our teams the confidence and skill to respond — fast.
What It Offers
This is how we deliver safer, smarter care. Training for the moments that matter most.
When every second counts, preparation is everything. At Concordia, we’re taking emergency readiness to the next level with a cutting edge training centre at the hospital.
The Concordia Foundation was thrilled to grant the funds to launch the Patel Simulated Learning Centre — a state-of-the-art facility built to prepare healthcare professionals for real-world, lifethreatening scenarios.
The Patel Simulated Learning Centre is a cutting-edge training lab designed to elevate patient safety and emergency preparedness.
Thanks to the generous support of Drs. Jayshree and Praful Patel, in loving memory of their son, Sunil Patel, and with the matched contributions of
Steinbach Credit Union,
other
launched in the presence of staff, donors, board members, and friends.
Why This Centre Matters
Life-threatening events can happen without warning. Yet healthcare professionals have limited chances to experience these emergencies in real life, so they must be prepared before they occur. Simulation-based training fills this gap.
The Patel Centre offers realistic, hands-on training for urgent care physicians, nurses, students, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
It helps them detect patient deterioration, manage cardiac arrests, and respond confidently in high-stakes moments.
Thank You for Transforming Healthcare Education!
We are beyond grateful to our generous donors for making the Simulated Learning Centre at Concordia Hospital a reality! Your support has established a state-of-the-art facility where healthcare professionals can train in a safe, hands-on environment, enhancing patient care and safety.
This centre will provide cutting-edge training opportunities, ensuring our staff is prepared for real-world challenges with confidence and skill. Your generosity is shaping the future of healthcare, and we couldn’t do it without you!
From all of us at Concordia Hospital—thank you for investing in excellence!
#Gratitude #HealthcareInnovation #MakingADifference
The use of simulation has been identified as a critical and indispensable strategy to improve patient safety and quality of care.
Life-threatening events can happen unexpectedly and we will be ready for it. Given the increasing amount of information that staff must know and the limited opportunity for care providers to encounter urgent clinical events, innovative approaches to teaching, practicing, and developing skills to manage emergencies are necessary.
Concordia is establishing a dedicated state-of-the-art Simulation Learning Lab for all care providers, including Urgent Care physicians, Medical/Nursing Students, physicians and Clinical Assistants, Nurses, Respiratory therapists, and others. The centre will enable staff to detect deterioration and manage cardiac arrests and other emergencies.
The simulation lab will ensure that all care providers have access to continuous training and hands-on practice, regardless of their full-time equivalency. This is an important extension of the continuous learning and training program currently in place and offers more hands on learning that will
Real-world scenarios to build clinical decisionmaking and teamwork
Safe space to learn from mistakes — without patient risk
• Customizable training for learners at every level
Continuous development to stay ahead of new tech and practices
• Detailed feedback and performance review after each session
• Collaborative, interdisciplinary learning
Cost-effective, scalable education
The use of simulation has been identified as a critical and indispensable strategy to improve patient safety and quality of care. Thank you to our donors for making this possible.
Gratitude to Drs. Jayshree and Praful Patel for dedicating this learning centre that inspires hope and healing.
directly impact patients should their condition call for such an intervention.
Thanks to the vision and commitment of Drs. Jayshree and Praful Patel, who donated funds to establish this dedicated centre in loving memory of their son, Sunil Patel, Concordia is in the last phase of its campaign to complete the lab this year while construction is underway.
We also thank and acknowledge other donors who have stepped up to match Patel’s donation. Steinbach Credit Union, The Winnipeg Foundation, and other generous donors support this vision and encourage others to follow suit.
The Winnipeg Foundation, and
generous donors, the Centre was
Health care staff join with us to celebrate the opening of the Patel Learning Lab with guests of honour, Drs. Patel who dedicated this centre in honour of Dr. Sunil Patel.
Nurse Educator Heather Unruh, with “Sunny,” demonstrating how the simulated learning centre trains and prepares healthcare workers for any emergency.
Arthroplasty Research at Concordia: and Why It Matters
Dr. Bohm is a professor of surgery at the University of Manitoba. He has been in clinical practice for more than 20 years and has extensive experience in primary and revision hip and knee replacement surgery. He takes pride both in his work in the clinic helping patients decide what treatment options are best for them, and in the operating room, where he has extensive familiarity with different surgical approaches, techniques and implant types. He is part of the Concordia Joint Replacement Group at Concordia and a member of the Concordia Foundation.
Arthroplasty Research at Concordia Is Driving Better Care for Patients
Hip and knee replacement surgery—known as arthroplasty—is one of the most successful interventions in modern medicine. For patients, it means relief from chronic pain, restored mobility, and the ability to return to the activities they love. With demand growing in both older and younger patients, research is critical to ensuring these procedures remain safe, effective, and long-lasting.
Manitoba’s Leadership
At the Concordia Hip & Knee Institute and our own Arthroplasty Research Chair funded by the Concordia Foundation, Manitoba is recognized nationally and internationally as a leader in arthroplasty research and care. Our surgeons and scientists are not only refining surgical techniques and evaluating new implants, but also pioneering next-generation tools such as RSA (Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis), an advanced imaging technology that tracks implant performance with unmatched precision.
Impact That Reaches Beyond Patients Research ensures treatments go beyond “good enough” to being the best science can offer. It also strengthens the healthcare system, leading to shorter hospital stays, faster recoveries, and lower costs—benefits that ripple across the community. Through Canada’s collaborative research networks, discoveries in Manitoba shape global standards for implant safety and innovation.
Every breakthrough means someone’s parent, child, or grandparent has a better chance.
Looking Ahead
Advances in robotics, personalized medicine, and new biomaterials are on the horizon. Manitoba and Canada are positioned not only to adopt these innovations but to shape how they’re used worldwide.
Research ensures that treatments go beyond being “good enough” to being the very best science can offer. It also strengthens the healthcare system, leading to shorter hospital stays, faster recoveries, and lower costs—benefits that ripple across our community.
Why Arthroplasty Research Matters
Hip and knee replacements transform lives by relieving pain, restoring mobility, and helping people return to the activities they love. At the Concordia Hip & Knee Institute, Manitoba researchers are leading national and international studies to make these surgeries safer, more effective, and longer-lasting. Using advanced tools like RSA imaging, they are setting global benchmarks for implant safety and performance. Research not only improves patient outcomes, but it also strengthens our healthcare system through faster recovery times and lower costs. Every breakthrough means healthier futures for families here at home—and around the world.
A Warm Welcome: My Day at the Concordia Child Care Centre
By Kaleigh Ewonchuk, staff
When I was given the chance to shadow Laura Allen, Director of the Concordia Child Care Centre, I was genuinely excited. I had heard numerous glowing reviews about the Centre—and about Laura herself, all of which proved to be well-deserved. As someone who has previously worked with various childcare centres, I was eager to experience firsthand what made this one so special.
Although I felt a bit nervous at first, the moment I stepped inside, those nerves faded. The Centre exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, a testament to the effort and care that the staff put into creating a nurturing environment for both children and families.
As someone who has previously worked with various childcare centres, I was eager to experience firsthand what made this one so special.
I was introduced to several team members—a wonderful group of dedicated individuals who genuinely love what they do. Many of them have worked at the Centre for years and possess deep
experience in the art and science of childcare. They moved quickly and tirelessly throughout the day, seamlessly balancing their responsibilities while engaging with the children in meaningful ways.
The Concordia Child Care Centre is licensed to care for up to 24 children, and despite the small size, it is impressively well-staffed. Each child receives close attention and care, allowing for a highly personalized experience that sets this Centre apart.
Laura kindly brought me into the infant room, where I met several children between the ages of 8 months and 2 years. One of the toddlers, Charlotte, was initially a bit shy, but with Laura’s gentle encouragement, we quickly became friends. Within minutes, Charlotte was showing me her favorite animal magnets. Before long, a small group of curious onlookers joined us, eager to play and share in the fun.
I also met Miles, Darius, and K.C.—each with their own personalities and favorite toys. I felt lucky to be included in their stories and playtime, even receiving a prized gorilla figurine and zebra to join in the fun.
Across the Centre, the preschoolers, aged 2 to 6, were hard at work on puzzles, confidently naming planets and dinosaurs as they helped each other place the pieces. Isiah and Derek, in particular, were proud to show me their skills, and I was amazed by their focus and enthusiasm.
Throughout my visit, the staff remained attentive, kind, and encouraging. Their commitment to each child’s well-being was evident in every interaction. It was clear that the children felt safe and valued— many of them followed staff around, eager to share a toy or a story.
By the end of my visit, it was clear why the Concordia Child Care Centre is so highly regarded.
Under Laura Allen’s leadership, this team has created something truly special—a place where children are nurtured, supported, and inspired. It feels more like a second home than a facility.
I had a truly wonderful experience visiting the Concordia Child Care Centre. The environment that Laura and her team have cultivated is nothing short of remarkable.
writer
Meet the Joint Replacement Resource Team at Concordia Hospital
We’re proud to introduce the Joint Replacement Resource Team—a dedicated group of professionals committed to supporting patients every step of the way as they prepare for elective hip and knee replacement surgeries.
Your Resource Team Includes: Eden Katz–Occupational Therapist, Joanne Pascua –Physiotherapist, Renee Raban – Registered
Dietitian, Sherry Filz – Clerk.
Previously located at the Concordia Hip and Knee Institute across the street, the team is now based in the Rehab Services Department on the Ground Floor of Concordia Hospital. While the address has changed, the heart of their work remains the same—offering personalized, compassionate care to patients throughout the WRHA, preparing for joint replacement surgery.
Here’s how they help:
• Educational Classes – Offered both online and onsite, these classes give patients the tools and information they need to feel ready for surgery and confident in their recovery journey.
• One-on-One Sessions – Tailored support for patients with unique questions or concerns.
The team has been busy refreshing their educational materials to make them even more helpful and user-friendly. One exciting update is the new online registration process, making it easier than ever for patients to sign up for classes.
As Manitoba’s surgical program continues to grow, so too will the work of the Joint Replacement Resource Team. With thoughtful feedback from patients, they’re always finding new ways to improve and expand their services.
We’re incredibly grateful for the heart and expertise this team brings to Concordia Hospital. Their impact on patients’ lives is already being felt—and the best is yet to come.
If you or someone you know is preparing for joint replacement surgery, don’t hesitate to connect with the team to learn more or register for an upcoming class!
What Patients Are Saying
“Thank you so much, Joanne. This was really helpful. Also, the class today was super. You all at Concordia have a top-notch, very slick operation going!” — Kris
“As a retired OT, it’s always so great to see what a wonderful job an OT does. Your presentation was clear, informative, and engaging. Thank you for contributing in such a meaningful way to our health care system.”
Together, We Can Bring Comfort –One Warm Bath at a Time
For 25 years, Concordia Place has been a cherished part of the Concordia Hospital community — a place where compassionate, person-centred care is offered with dignity and respect. As we look ahead to the next chapter, we are committed to renewing our physical spaces, so they reflect the high standard of care our residents receive every day.
One of the most personal — and often overlooked aspects of long-term care is the simple act of bathing.
A Legacy of Care, A Vision for Renewal
Today, the bathing facilities at Concordia Place, built as part of the original construction, are nearing the end of their useful life. These rooms were designed decades ago, during a different era of elder care. But times have changed. Expectations have evolved. And our residents deserve better.
A warm bath taken in comfort and privacy is about dignity. It’s a moment of calm, healing, and self-worth. For many residents at Concordia Place, the opportunity for a bath is not just part of routine care — it can become a rare moment of peace and personal renewal.
They deserve spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and safe — not outdated or clinical. Their families deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved ones are being cared for in an environment that honours their dignity and worth.
We envision a complete transformation of our bathing spaces into modern, private, beautifully designed rooms that promote wellness, comfort, and dignity. These rooms will feature:
Therapeutic tubs designed for safety and accessibility
Soft lighting and calming finishes. Soothing showers
that are accessible and private. Thoughtful design elements that enhance serenity and relaxation. These will be quiet sanctuaries within the centre — places to relax, to feel cared for, and to be seen.
This transformation isn’t just about updating a building. It’s about living out our values — and showing each person who lives here, and each family who loves them, that the small things truly matter.
This is Personal
Families know that the little details shape daily life. Donors who support our work see the impact of meaningful, tangible improvements. Together, we can renew these vital spaces and help ensure
comfort, dignity, and joy for the next 25 years — one warm bath at a time.
What Will
It Take to Do This?
The Concordia Foundation is proud to support this vision, alongside our dedicated community of donors. We aim to renovate and renew seven therapeutic bathing rooms, creating peaceful, restorative spaces that will enhance the daily lives of our loved ones, now and for generations to come.
Your Gift. Their Comfort.
Together, we can bring warmth, dignity, and comfort — one warm bath at a time.
25 Years of Care, Comfort, and Community at Concordia Place
It’s the people and the relationships that make this place so special. Concordia Place is proud to celebrate 25 years of providing compassionate, resident-centred care to our community. Since opening our doors, our long-term care facility—part of Concordia Hospital and our community—has been a place where dignity, comfort, and connection come first. Concordia Place is more than a care facility: it is truly a home. Staff, volunteers, and families work together to
create a safe, supportive environment filled with warmth, respect, and belonging. Over the years, countless moments of joy, resilience, and friendship have shaped our story. As we mark this milestone, we celebrate the residents who enrich our lives, the families who place their trust in us, and the dedicated team whose compassion defines our care. With gratitude for the past 25 years, we look forward to continuing our mission of service for many years ahead.
Some of our fabulous 4th floor care team.
A 2nd Floor resident and family member enjoying the celebration festivities.
A 3rd Floor resident and family member
Interdisciplinary care team members.
Boards and Committees
The Concordia Campus is governed and led by community members who have a solid purpose and vision. All of our boards and committees are volunteers who give their time and talent and work tirelessly behind the scenes. Concordia provides services to all nations on the traditional and ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininewak, Dakota-Oyate, Dene, Inuit, and the national homeland of the Red River Métis. Treaties were created with the First Nations and include past, present, and future inhabitants, so we are all treaty people. Concordia serves those on Treaty 1 and Treaty 5 lands. We acknowledge the five Dakota communities in Manitoba that are not signatories to any treaties with Canada. We commit ourselves, in a good way, to learning about truth and reconciliation, promote healing, and creating a better future for all.
Concordia Foundation Board of Directors
Sue Barkman, Executive Director www.concordiafoundation.ca
Gerry Harms, Chair
Edgar Giesbrecht, Vice-Chair
Judd Ekdahl, Treasurer
Carrie Fruehm, Secretary
Rachel Bartel, Director
Dr. Eric Bohm, Director
Connie D. Froese, Director
Ernie Goetz. Director
Ron Koslowsky, Director
Phil Pauls, Director
Bernie Regehr, Director
Frank Stecky, Director
Andy Zhao, Director
Concordia Hospital Board of Directors
Carrie Fruehm, President and Chief Operating Officer www.concordiahospital.mb.ca
Phil Pauls, Chair
Rod Harder, Vice Chair
Cynthia Carr, Director
Teresa Dukes, Director
Cameron Friesen, Director
Dale Friesen, Director
Betty Holsten Boyer, Director
Willy Janzen, Director
Laura Kalmar, Director
Ron Koslowsky, Director
Carolyn Klassen, Director
Brad Klasssen, Director
Jon Labun, Director
Tracey Maconachie, Director
Heather Tabin, Director
Barb Wasilewski, Director
Concordia Wellness Projects Inc. Board of Directors
Darren Klassen, Chief Executive Officer www.Concordiavillage.ca
CONCORDIA
Fax:
CONCORDIA
Brad Klassen, Chair
Neil Enns, Vice-Chair
Wendy Janzen, Secretary-Treasurer
Mark Enns, Director
Rod Harder, Director
Herta Janzen, Director
Deanna Penner, Director
Michael Woelcke, Director
Concordia Arthroplasty Research Chair www.arthroplastyresearchchair.com
Anupam Kothari, Chair
Lucy Byzio, RN
Cynthia Carr, B.A. (Hons) M.P.A, MPH, M.Sc.
Trevor Gascoyne, M.Sc. P.Eng
Mena Gainspaulsingh, LLB
Dr. Michael Paterson, Ph.D
Bernie Regehr
Dr. Christiaan Righolt, Ph.D
Chris Stevens
Dr. Tom Turgeon, MD, B.Sc. MPH, FRCSC, FAAOS
Operation Walk Manitoba Inc. www.operationwalkmb.ca
Dr. David Hedden, Chair and Medical Director, MD, B.Sc., FRCSC
Dr. Kelvin Williamson, Vice President, B.Sc., MD, FRCPC, MADEM
Mike Stevens, Treasurer
Sue Barkman, Corporate Secretary
Julie Ames, Director
Carine Arce, Director
Brian Meronek, QC, Director
Dr. Laura Reimer, Director
Danica Robson, Director
Dan Sutherland, Director
Jill Twordik, Director
Claudio Videtto, Director
Opalyn Vinzon, Director
