Heart & Stroke 2024 Winter impact report

Beat as one: Your legacy can save lives

Winter 2024 Impact Report

Beat as one

The impact of making Heart & Stroke a part of your life story will be felt for generations to come There’s a movement building momentum right now.

Over 3 million Canadians have committed to leaving a gift in their Will to charity. And these donors are not celebrities or wealthy philanthropists – they’re ordinary people using the power of their Wills to make a big difference.

Big breakthroughs. Better health. Because of YOU.

With so much change happening in the world, it’s not surprising that the popularity of “ethical Wills” has surged in recent years. People are looking for the most effective way to make an impact where it matters most.

Heart Month 2024: Beat cardiac arrest

It’s a trend that points to being here to stay, and for Heart & Stroke supporters thinking of leaving a legacy gift in their Will, it’s a win-win. Here’s why: •B eat heart disease and stroke: The #1 killer globally, and two of the three leading causes of death in Canada •C hoose the gift that’s right for you: Your income today won’t be affected, and you can ensure your loved ones are taken care of first •L eave a legacy: Help create a better, healthier future for loved ones and future generations

We are so grateful for donors like you in our fight to beat heart disease and stroke. Together, we can keep families together, longer.

Heart & Stroke has partnered with Will Power, a national campaign that educates Canadians about the power of leaving a charitable gift. The Will Power Legacy Calculator lets you see how even 1% of your estate can impact future generations, visit: www.willpower.ca/legacy-calculator

Making a difference for generations to come Making a legacy pledge means we can continue to lead the way in our mission to beat heart disease and stroke and its devastating impact on Canadian families. With so much uncertainty, you can count on making a lasting difference!

Learn more at: heartandstroke.ca/legacy

Contact numbers are: Mary Goodfellow - ON 1-800-205-4438

February is Heart Month. This year, we’re spotlighting a critical issue: cardiac arrest.

Anywhere, anytime, any age. Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. It can strike without warning, with the odds of surviving out-ofhospital just 10% – a heartbreaking statistic that devastates families and communities.

To learn more, scan here:

the hospital at the time for a lung test. His father heard him fall from the waiting room. Finding Olivier unconscious, he began CPR until the cardiology team arrived. Bruno saves his son’s life – today, Olivier’s heart condition is stable.

We must do more. Olivier beat the odds, but so many don’t. With your help, we’re making change happen.

From increasing the number of people who perform CPR through a best-in-class Instructors Network of 8,000, to expanding the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and bringing together the brightest research minds, we’re committed to vastly improving survival rates.

Families like Olivier’s. At 14, Olivier suddenly collapsed.

He was experiencing cardiac arrest. Luckily, Olivier was at

Susan Deike - BC, YK, AB, NWT, SK, MB 1-403-451-3675

Learn CPR in 90 seconds.

Josie Pizzuco - QC, NS, PEI, NL 1-514-669-6300

Do you have a couple of minutes? That’s enough to learn the basics of CPR and how to use an AED.

A gift of securities is one of the most tax-effective ways to support the cause that’s close to your heart.

Learn more at: heartandstroke.ca/securities

Watch our short video:

3 easy, secure ways to make your special gift today: Mail in your enclosed reply card

Donate online at HeartandStroke.ca/Impact

Call 1-877-882-2582 Cardiac arrest survivor, Olivier Lanthier, and his dad, Bruno.

When we beat as one, we achieve so much more together.

STW2ZDM-EN

Recovery story Page 2

Heart-warming recipes Page 3

Beat for tomorrow Page 4

To learn more, visit heartandstroke.ca/cpr

© Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2024 | ™ The heart and / Icon on its own and the heart and / Icon followed by another i con or words are trademarks of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

43317-Heart And Stroke_24-STW2_Impact Report_EN.indd 1

2023-11-14 12:22 PM

What is cardiac arrest? When the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating It’s frightening to witness a person in cardiac arrest. But your immediate action can double their chance of survival.

Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any age, often without warning.

Dr. Robert Hegele’s research adds years to lives that may have once been cut short

“

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating and is no longer able to pump blood to the brain and other vital organs. Signs include sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, not breathing normally or making gasping sounds. Cardiac arrest is life-threatening. What bystanders do next is critical for survival.

For decades, Heart & Stroke has been raising public awareness about cardiac arrest. Thanks to donor support, Heart & Stroke introduces tens of thousands of Canadians to the simple, life-saving steps of doing CPR and using an AED through media and public awareness campaigns each year.

Using genetics to beat heart attacks

I would be doing something totally different if I didn’t have this support from volunteers and donors. I am forever grateful.

”

Dr. Robert Hegele, Heart & Stroke researcher

This year, we are more determined than ever to improve survival rates and reduce its devastation on families in Canada.

Dr. Robert Hegele’s father and mother had heart attacks at 49 and 60. Both survived, but he knows they were lucky. Many with a history of high cholesterol lose their lives too soon.

To learn more about cardiac arrest and how to respond, go to: heartandstroke.ca/cardiacarrest

As a professor of medicine at Western University with funding from Heart & Stroke since 1991, Dr. Hegele is a worldrenowned expert on inherited high cholesterol. His research has identified multiple mutations of a single gene that triggers high cholesterol in about one in 250 people in Canada – increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack up to 20X. A DNA test – developed by his lab to diagnose this condition, called familial hypercholesterolemia – is used worldwide, contributing to medications to treat it.

2x

Survival can double with CPR and AED use.

Dr. Hegele is now on the trail of a more complex adversary that could affect many more people: high cholesterol

Fighting heart failure: Kevin’s progress Facing a future with heart failure At 54 years old, Kevin Lobo needed open-heart surgery. Even though he was managing heart failure with medication and an active lifestyle, his heart function was declining. In 2021, when tests revealed a 70% – 90% blockage in his arteries, Kevin had triple bypass surgery. It was his best chance to get his life back.

Kevin Lobo (right) and his brother playing golf 2

43317-Heart And Stroke_24-STW2_Impact Report_EN.indd 2

Getting a pacemaker in 2022 “for insurance” meant his once strenuous workouts are now “low impact, no contact”. Knowing his life will always include heart failure, he focuses on his mental health: “It affects everything, even your body.” He’ll always be grateful for his family’s support and the care he received – treatment that probably saved him.

triggered by multiple genes. Most of us know an unhealthy diet can increase cholesterol, but that accounts for only 10-15%: “The rest is what you’re genetically programmed to make.”

His team is sifting through massive amounts of patient DNA data, seeking recurrent patterns in areas associated with heart disease and stroke: “We’re finding it’s going to be very individual, as everybody has their own unique genetic barcode.”

Detailed profiling will help gauge patient risk and develop personalized treatments. With continued donor support, the goal is to prevent or delay heart attacks and strokes, adding decades to people’s lives.

Keep cozy indoors with delicious winter dishes Healthy comfort food recipes approved by Heart & Stroke dietitians are a delicious way to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Find this recipe for butternut squash chili and others visit: heartandstroke.ca/recipes

The flu shot: There’s still time to protect yourself Having the flu can increase the risk of another stroke or heart attack, says Heart & Stroke researcher and stroke neurologist Dr. Alexandre Poppe. “Studies have shown that the risk of stroke or heart attack increases shortly after a flu infection, but probably even more in someone predisposed to stroke.”

He stresses the importance of getting both a flu shot and COVID booster. “COVID and the flu are two different illnesses, so it’s important to get both vaccines.” To learn more, visit: heartandstroke.ca/flu 3

2023-11-14 12:22 PM

What is cardiac arrest? When the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating It’s frightening to witness a person in cardiac arrest. But your immediate action can double their chance of survival.

Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any age, often without warning.

Dr. Robert Hegele’s research adds years to lives that may have once been cut short

“

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating and is no longer able to pump blood to the brain and other vital organs. Signs include sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, not breathing normally or making gasping sounds. Cardiac arrest is life-threatening. What bystanders do next is critical for survival.

For decades, Heart & Stroke has been raising public awareness about cardiac arrest. Thanks to donor support, Heart & Stroke introduces tens of thousands of Canadians to the simple, life-saving steps of doing CPR and using an AED through media and public awareness campaigns each year.

Using genetics to beat heart attacks

I would be doing something totally different if I didn’t have this support from volunteers and donors. I am forever grateful.

”

Dr. Robert Hegele, Heart & Stroke researcher

This year, we are more determined than ever to improve survival rates and reduce its devastation on families in Canada.

Dr. Robert Hegele’s father and mother had heart attacks at 49 and 60. Both survived, but he knows they were lucky. Many with a history of high cholesterol lose their lives too soon.

To learn more about cardiac arrest and how to respond, go to: heartandstroke.ca/cardiacarrest

As a professor of medicine at Western University with funding from Heart & Stroke since 1991, Dr. Hegele is a worldrenowned expert on inherited high cholesterol. His research has identified multiple mutations of a single gene that triggers high cholesterol in about one in 250 people in Canada – increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack up to 20X. A DNA test – developed by his lab to diagnose this condition, called familial hypercholesterolemia – is used worldwide, contributing to medications to treat it.

2x

Survival can double with CPR and AED use.

Dr. Hegele is now on the trail of a more complex adversary that could affect many more people: high cholesterol

Fighting heart failure: Kevin’s progress Facing a future with heart failure At 54 years old, Kevin Lobo needed open-heart surgery. Even though he was managing heart failure with medication and an active lifestyle, his heart function was declining. In 2021, when tests revealed a 70% – 90% blockage in his arteries, Kevin had triple bypass surgery. It was his best chance to get his life back.

Kevin Lobo (right) and his brother playing golf 2

43317-Heart And Stroke_24-STW2_Impact Report_EN.indd 2

Getting a pacemaker in 2022 “for insurance” meant his once strenuous workouts are now “low impact, no contact”. Knowing his life will always include heart failure, he focuses on his mental health: “It affects everything, even your body.” He’ll always be grateful for his family’s support and the care he received – treatment that probably saved him.

triggered by multiple genes. Most of us know an unhealthy diet can increase cholesterol, but that accounts for only 10-15%: “The rest is what you’re genetically programmed to make.”

His team is sifting through massive amounts of patient DNA data, seeking recurrent patterns in areas associated with heart disease and stroke: “We’re finding it’s going to be very individual, as everybody has their own unique genetic barcode.”

Detailed profiling will help gauge patient risk and develop personalized treatments. With continued donor support, the goal is to prevent or delay heart attacks and strokes, adding decades to people’s lives.

Keep cozy indoors with delicious winter dishes Healthy comfort food recipes approved by Heart & Stroke dietitians are a delicious way to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Find this recipe for butternut squash chili and others visit: heartandstroke.ca/recipes

The flu shot: There’s still time to protect yourself Having the flu can increase the risk of another stroke or heart attack, says Heart & Stroke researcher and stroke neurologist Dr. Alexandre Poppe. “Studies have shown that the risk of stroke or heart attack increases shortly after a flu infection, but probably even more in someone predisposed to stroke.”

He stresses the importance of getting both a flu shot and COVID booster. “COVID and the flu are two different illnesses, so it’s important to get both vaccines.” To learn more, visit: heartandstroke.ca/flu 3

2023-11-14 12:22 PM

Beat as one: Your legacy can save lives

Winter 2024 Impact Report

Beat as one

The impact of making Heart & Stroke a part of your life story will be felt for generations to come There’s a movement building momentum right now.

Over 3 million Canadians have committed to leaving a gift in their Will to charity. And these donors are not celebrities or wealthy philanthropists – they’re ordinary people using the power of their Wills to make a big difference.

Big breakthroughs. Better health. Because of YOU.

With so much change happening in the world, it’s not surprising that the popularity of “ethical Wills” has surged in recent years. People are looking for the most effective way to make an impact where it matters most.

Heart Month 2024: Beat cardiac arrest

It’s a trend that points to being here to stay, and for Heart & Stroke supporters thinking of leaving a legacy gift in their Will, it’s a win-win. Here’s why: •B eat heart disease and stroke: The #1 killer globally, and two of the three leading causes of death in Canada •C hoose the gift that’s right for you: Your income today won’t be affected, and you can ensure your loved ones are taken care of first •L eave a legacy: Help create a better, healthier future for loved ones and future generations

We are so grateful for donors like you in our fight to beat heart disease and stroke. Together, we can keep families together, longer.

Heart & Stroke has partnered with Will Power, a national campaign that educates Canadians about the power of leaving a charitable gift. The Will Power Legacy Calculator lets you see how even 1% of your estate can impact future generations, visit: www.willpower.ca/legacy-calculator

Making a difference for generations to come Making a legacy pledge means we can continue to lead the way in our mission to beat heart disease and stroke and its devastating impact on Canadian families. With so much uncertainty, you can count on making a lasting difference!

Learn more at: heartandstroke.ca/legacy

Contact numbers are: Mary Goodfellow - ON 1-800-205-4438

February is Heart Month. This year, we’re spotlighting a critical issue: cardiac arrest.

Anywhere, anytime, any age. Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. It can strike without warning, with the odds of surviving out-ofhospital just 10% – a heartbreaking statistic that devastates families and communities.

To learn more, scan here:

the hospital at the time for a lung test. His father heard him fall from the waiting room. Finding Olivier unconscious, he began CPR until the cardiology team arrived. Bruno saves his son’s life – today, Olivier’s heart condition is stable.

We must do more. Olivier beat the odds, but so many don’t. With your help, we’re making change happen.

From increasing the number of people who perform CPR through a best-in-class Instructors Network of 8,000, to expanding the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and bringing together the brightest research minds, we’re committed to vastly improving survival rates.

Families like Olivier’s. At 14, Olivier suddenly collapsed.

He was experiencing cardiac arrest. Luckily, Olivier was at

Susan Deike - BC, YK, AB, NWT, SK, MB 1-403-451-3675

Learn CPR in 90 seconds.

Josie Pizzuco - QC, NS, PEI, NL 1-514-669-6300

Do you have a couple of minutes? That’s enough to learn the basics of CPR and how to use an AED.

A gift of securities is one of the most tax-effective ways to support the cause that’s close to your heart.

Learn more at: heartandstroke.ca/securities

Watch our short video:

3 easy, secure ways to make your special gift today: Mail in your enclosed reply card

Donate online at HeartandStroke.ca/Impact

Call 1-877-882-2582 Cardiac arrest survivor, Olivier Lanthier, and his dad, Bruno.

When we beat as one, we achieve so much more together.

STW2ZDM-EN

Recovery story Page 2

Heart-warming recipes Page 3

Beat for tomorrow Page 4

To learn more, visit heartandstroke.ca/cpr

© Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2024 | ™ The heart and / Icon on its own and the heart and / Icon followed by another i con or words are trademarks of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

43317-Heart And Stroke_24-STW2_Impact Report_EN.indd 1

2023-11-14 12:22 PM