Kidney News Winter 2021 – BC & Yukon Branch Turns 50

THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH | WINTER 2021

In this issue

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BC and Yukon Branch turns

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Welcome from Branch President, Wayde Hayley

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A Few Key Achievements in Programs & Services

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Kidney Health Awareness, Education and Advocacy Efforts

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Coming Together over 50 Years to Raise Funds in Support of Kidney Patients

20 Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Kidney Foundation BC & Yukon Branch 200 - 4940 Canada Way Burnaby, BC V5G 4K6 604 736 9775 | 1 800 567 8112

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Welcome to our special edition of Kidney News to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the BC and Yukon Branch

I am sure you will agree that we have a

lot to be proud of over the past five decades, a lot that we have accomplished together.

It all began in 1971 when Sergeant Ken Smith of the Vancouver City Police and other citizens founded the BC Kidney Association which later that same year was renamed the BC Branch and then fast forward to 2015, when we became the BC and Yukon Branch.

Twenty-five Board Presidents and their Directors have steered the organization forward through countless fundraising events and activities and the development of many innovative programs and services to support kidney patients and their families.

Over the years our efforts have often earned the Branch the proud title of “trailblazer.”

Rowing in behind our senior leadership, has been our ever-growing kidney community.

It is without a doubt that the extraordinary efforts and talents of our volunteers, members, health professionals, long term funders, donors, sponsors, stakeholders, researchers and staff have shaped our history and driven our mission forward—giving lift off to everything we do. In the following pages we share some highlights.

But like every organization, our Branch has faced challenges over the years, not least of which is the pandemic that has challenged many of us in ways we’ve never experienced before. But like always, thanks to the unwavering support from the kidney community, and the ingenuity of so many, the Branch was able to pivot and raise funds and stay connected in new ways so that

support to our kidney patients and their families remained strong.

And our work is far from over.

By harnessing our efforts here in BC and The Yukon with our colleagues in the other Branches and our National office, we are looking ahead with confidence to the future.

As one Foundation, we have set key priorities to help guide our efforts in the coming years, to ensure we continue to meet the ever-changing and evolving needs of our kidney community.

We will remain steadfast in our commitment to increasing revenue and investing in research and programs that continue to improve the quality of life for kidney patients, and we will work to ensure the under-served and marginalized kidney patient populations have equitable access to programs, services and treatment. We will also continue to shine a light on a disease that too often flies under the radar and leverage our new brand to expand public and government awareness of the kidney disease. Finally, as a volunteer-driven organization, we will also continue to focus efforts on volunteer development and support and grow our most valued resource.

Thank you for all that you do. It can’t be said enough. You have been integral to helping us build a strong foundation for kidney patients over the past 50 years, and we look forward to building an even stronger foundation together in the coming years. ■ Wayde Hayley, BC & Yukon Branch President

The Kidney Disease Foundation of Canada is established

1964

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Dr. John Price, BC's very first nephrologist, develops the first dialysis unit in BC

1964

THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

The first kidney transplant in BC takes place at Vancouver General Hospital

1968

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A small group of citizens concerned about kidney disease forms the BC Kidney Association, with Sergeant Ken Smith of the Vancouver City Police at its helm as the Founding President. Later that year, the Association joins The Kidney Foundation of Canada and becomes the BC Branch.

1971

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Kidney History in the Making In 1964 a group of dedicated individuals from Montreal got together to establish what they called the Kidney Disease Foundation of Canada.

The objective was to raise money and support research into kidney disease since there was very little research being carried out in Canada at the time. In the 1960’s a patient who was diagnosed with kidney failure stood very little chance of survival.

The organization was renamed Kidney Foundation of Canada in 1969 and then in 1985 became The Kidney Foundation of Canada. In 1970 at the first Annual General meeting held in Toronto, representatives from Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick and BC attended. Today the Foundation serves kidney patients and their families in every province and territory across Canada. ■

THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Dr. John Price: BC's First Nephrologist A Leader in the Development of the Province’s Kidney Care Services— Focused and dedicated, he touched the lives of many.

With early diagnosis, home dialysis and kidney transplants standard components of modern kidney care, it’s hard to believe that at one time, a diagnosis of kidney failure was invariably a death sentence. But that’s exactly how it was when BC’s very first nephrologist, the late Dr. John Price, began practising in the 1960s.

BC was lucky to have him. But for his resolve, determination and hard work, kidney care in this province, and indeed across the country, might not be as far along as it is today.

His arrival in BC, after studying at McGill University, and training at Montreal General Hospital and Toronto General Hospital, marked the beginning of a career with plenty of illustrious “firsts.”

In 1964, Dr. Price developed the first dialysis unit in BC—the second in Canada—and helped create the kidney transplant program

responsible for the first kidney transplant here in BC. Before the decade was out, Dr. Price also helped establish one of the first centres in the world to facilitate at-home treatment for kidney patients.

As if that wasn’t enough, Dr. Price was a founding member of the Canadian Society of Nephrology and did stints as Chair of the Medical Board of The Kidney Foundation of Canada and Director of the BC Medical Association. His clinical practice was based at Vancouver General Hospital, where he would later become head of nephrology.

In spite of all his accomplishments, Dr. Price remained a man of great humility and simple pleasures. After retiring to Salt Spring Island in 1990 he spent his time sailing, fishing and reading, as well as with his five children and numerous grandchildren. He spent his last years in Victoria and then Parksville, where he passed away in April 2013. ■

First Person with Influential Pediatric Nephrologist, Dr. Morrison Hurley 50 years ago in 1971 Pierre Elliott

Trudeau was Prime Minister of Canada. Richard Nixon was president of the United States The war in Vietnam was still hot and there were demonstrations in the streets. Gas was $0.40 a gallon. That's $0.10 a litre.

I had been a doctor already for six years, but still in training. The year the BC & Yukon Branch came into being—back then it was the BC Branch—I was in my second year of the three-year pediatric nephrology fellowship at Montreal Children's Hospital.

I was there after spending time as a rotating intern in London, Ontario where I decided

to go into pediatrics and even delivered 55 babies! I moved to Montreal to do research on lung surfactant, get my Masters from McGill and then I went back into pediatrics.

Fast forward a couple of years and I was finishing my pediatric fellowship and I came to a crossroads. I could choose to continue in neonatology or go into pediatric nephrology.

I ended up deciding on the latter for purely personal reasons. I felt it was an advantage to be a pediatric nephologist because I could work with the child and witness their growth and development. The youngest I've “met” was a 20-week fetus at the time. continued >

Pierre Elliott Trudeau is Prime Minister of Canada

1971

Life expectancy in Canada is 73 years

1971

Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Princess Anne come to BC to celebrate the province’s centennial

1971

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Dr. Morrison Hurley

plus or minus, depending on whether it was the first transplant or later transplant, whether it was deceased donor or whether it was live related donor or live unrelated donor.

Some of the reasons for this significant improvement include improved retrieval and surgical techniques—for example, minimally invasive surgeries for live donors; more types of donors (deceased, live, domino/kidney paired donations); and better and more targeted anti-rejection therapy.

I can't predict, but I am absolutely certain that there will be great strides made in the future.

How can I say that? Well, I used to go to the meetings, especially in the 80s and come home depressed. I’d say to my wife, “We're not getting anywhere.” I wondered if we were ever going to get back to looking at some fundamental problems with various kidney diseases to work on coming up with novel ideas and treatments. Well, I've got some good news for you. It's actually being done now. Some of the advances so far include: the development of chronic kidney disease staging to track the progression of the disease and improvements in the treatment of specific diseases that often lead to kidney disease/failure. These include pharmaceutical breakthroughs in the treatment of anemia, diabetes melititis, systemic lupus erythematosis and primary hyperoxaluria.

There is also a drug which slows the growth of the cysts in autosomal dominant polycystic disease.

Although I retired in 2013, I still try to keep abreast with changes and advancements in nephrology. I am an emeritus professor at UBC—a real honour for me—and regularly act as a reviewer for three kidney journals. I’ve never regretted the decision I made long ago to focus on children and kidney disease while continuing to seek answers to questions about pathology and possible treatments.

I tip my hat to all those who are currently working to improve outcomes for kidney patients and consequently, their loved ones.

They are building on the breakthroughs of the past for a more hopeful future. ■

Early Experiences with Dialysis In 1971 we only dialyzed children for acute renal failure with peritoneal dialysis. We could not provide chronic dialysis for any child. We had the theory but no hands-on experience with hemodialysis. I learned how to biopsy children’s kidneys and interpret the pathology.

That all changed when I moved to McMaster University in 1973. We were using Kiil dialyzers (see sidebar) in the centre and for home hemodialysis, slowly over 6 to 8 hours per run.

Yes, home dialysis in 1973 on children, including a ten-year-old boy.

There was little automatic monitoring on the old machines. Patients had to be stood up and weighed periodically during dialysis. Dialysis was very labor intensive for all concerned.

By 1980 with the development of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), we had eight children on home dialysis. CAPD could even be used on infants. It was a game changer for children but led to a diminution of home hemo programs, especially in the adult world.

Now it’s been revitalized in recent years with improvements in vascular access and the use of nocturnal hemodialysis.

Changes in Kidney Transplantation In 1973, 50% of kidney transplants failed within one year.

Now 90% of transplants last 10 to 15 years,

1972

Since the Kidney Paired Donation (KPD) program —operated collaboratively between Canadian Blood Services and Canada’s living kidney donation and kidney transplant programs—was launched in 2009, 700 living kidney donors across Canada have shared the altruistic gift of a kidney, including 160 non-directed anonymous donors.

What's on the Horizon

In 1971 our lab was heavily into trying to understand basic pathways which contributed to renal disease with the hope that we might eventually find some better treatments. We were also conducting clinical trials in the nephrotic syndrome of childhood.

Robert Smith becomes the 2nd President of the Branch

DID YOU KNOW?

The Summit Series – an eight-game hockey series between the then Soviet Union and Canada occurs. Team Canada wins.

1972

Kiil dialyzer ca. 1960.

Three or more boards were used with two sheets of membrane sandwiched between each pair of boards. Grooves in the boards directed the blood between the layers of membrane—and the dialysate outside the membrane envelope—in opposite directions from one end of the boards to the other. https://homedialysis.org/ home-dialysis-basics/ machines-and-supplies/ dialysis-museum

Preliminary steps are made throughout the territory toward introducing the metric system in The Yukon

1974

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

A Few Key Achievements in Programs & Services Current BC & Yukon Branch Programs and Services • • • • • • •

Educational Material Kidney Connect (Peer Support Program) Kidney Kids Camp Kidney Suites Information and Referral Living Donor Mentor Program Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program (LODERP) • Short Term Financial Assistance Program

Pilot Projects: • • • •

Years of Support for Kidney Patients and their Families Since 1971, the Branch has proudly

country in the early 2000’s and as a result the mandate was broadened to include people with chronic kidney disease and those at risk for developing kidney disease.

Also in the new millennium, Branch advocacy resulted in the Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program (LODERP) to help remove a financial barrier to living organ donors and was instrumental in securing a three-year pledge from CN for a Targeted Screening Program to be offered Canada-wide.

We are now able to assist those who choose home dialysis therapies and need to travel for training—something that was not even an option 50 years ago—through our Northern Travel and Nanaimo Kidney Condo

provided support to kidney patients and their families, which has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of those we serve.

To ensure we continue to offer the most beneficial programs and services, we have made it a priority to connect in regularly over the years with our kidney community through focus groups, surveys and conversations to better understand the needs and challenges of our patients.

For many years, the Branch focused its program resources on providing support to kidney patients who required kidney replacement therapies, and to their families.

The Foundation underwent a review of its mandate with staff and volunteers across the

Anne Guimarens becomes the 3rd President of the Branch

1974

Northern Travel Initiative Nanaimo Kidney Condo Dental Initiative Home Blood Pressure Monitoring

Volunteers begin fundraising through door-to-door canvassing

1974

pilot initiatives.

As the medical community continues to move for kidney patients to self-manage aspects of their care, we have been able to assist with free home blood pressure monitors and education about lifestyle changes that may stop or delay a decline in kidney function.

Our novel Living Donor Mentor program was designed to support individuals considering becoming donors and increase transplantation rates in BC and The Yukon.

While the last 50 years has seen an increase in the number of people with chronic kidney disease, the BC and Yukon Branch has always stood ready to be the charity of choice for those seeking information, inspiration, education and support. ■

First living kidney donor transplant in BC

1976

Annual Peanut Campaign begins

1976

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

A Few Key Achievements in Programs & Services

Short-Term Financial Assistance Program BC and Yukon Branch helps thousands of kidney patients and families facing hardship A program unique to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, the short-term financial assistance program (STFA), began in the late 80s and was soon adopted by our Branch. STFA covers eligible expenses associated with kidney disease and its treatment when other funding sources have been exhausted. On average, 300 grants are given annually and in the last 15 years, $1,092,608 have been disbursed. ■

Kidney Kids Camp Branch President inspires a camp where kids can just be kids In the early 1980’s Reginald T. Stott, then BC Branch President, inspired a special camp called Camp Dialysun, now known as Kidney Kids Camp.

The camp is a place for children and youth with kidney disease to just enjoy being kids at a week-long excursion full of outdoor activities with staff from BC Children’s’ Hospital who can attend to their medical well-being. Kidney campers were sent to Ontario to attend Camp Dialysun, until camp started here in BC. The Kidney Foundation pays for camp fees and most transportation so there is no cost to families at all. Since its inception, thousands of kids have enjoyed Kidney Kids Camp and made memories for a lifetime. In 2021 the first ever virtual camp took place due to COVID-19 concerns. ■

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1990, BC sent four kids to Camp Dialysun near Bolton Ontario while in 2010, a record of 54 kids attended camp at BC’s Zajac Ranch.

Disco solidifies its mainstream popularity with the release of the movie and soundtrack, Saturday Night Fever

1977

Ted Miranda becomes the 4th President of the Branch

1978

Ian Carter becomes the 5th President of the Branch

1980

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

A Few Key Achievements in Programs & Services

KIDNEY SUITES

“Seventeen years ago, I was lucky to get a kidney transplant.

My donor was my sister Carol. We were very fortunate to stay in a Kidney Suite for our post-surgery care.”

BC leads the charge offering kidney patients a home away from home since 2000 In BC and The Yukon there is only one place to get a kidney transplant— Vancouver. To support those post-kidney transplant patients who live outside Vancouver’s Lower Mainland but must stay in Vancouver for two months during their post-transplant recovery (or for children undergoing hemodialysis), the Branch offers Kidney Suites.

These suites provide safe, fully furnished accommodation and are free for those who meet our financial criteria (low income) or just a nominal fee per night for those who do not.

The first Kidney Suite opened its doors in 2000 thanks to the efforts of then Branch Presidents Sue Peterson and Anne Nickerson, who in 1999, partnered with the Pacific Command of the Royal Canadian Legion and the New Chelsea Society to provide affordable accommodation for kidney patients.

"Seventeen years ago, I was lucky to get a kidney transplant," says Saanichton's Harry Hitchman. "My donor was my sister Carol. We were very fortunate to stay in a Kidney Suite for our post-surgery care. Because of my transplant, performed by Dr. Wright and his team at Vancouver General Hospital, and also the staff at The Kidney Foundation, I've been able to proudly watch both my daughters grow up to be wonderful women. I recently became a grandpa and play golf three times a week.

I have much to be thankful for. I am a lucky man.”

Currently, there are seven Kidney Suites conveniently located close to Vancouver’s St. Paul’s and Vancouver General Hospital where the kidney transplants are performed.

BC & Yukon is the only Branch of The Kidney Foundation that offers Kidney Suites. As of the end of 2020, 524 post-kidney transplant patients had taken advantage of the accommodation, sparing them significant financial worry—and allowing them to focus on their recovery. ■

Camp Dialysun, a special camp for children and young adults with kidney disease, is created (now called Kidney Kids Camp)

1981

Harry Hitchman with his daughters in a Kidney Suite, just after his kidney transplant in August 2004.

LODERP

Reimbursement program first of its kind in Canada In 2006 the BC and Yukon Branch and BC Transplant joined forces to develop an innovative program called the Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program or LODERP for short.

The first of its kind in North America, LODERP reimburses living donors of kidneys and livers for eligible expenses during the assessment, surgery and recovery phases of the organ donation process.

Past Branch President, Ken Merkely, was the visionary behind the creation of LODERP and says it’s one of his proudest accomplishments. “It really eases the financial burden associated with donation and creates one less barrier for potential living organ donors.”

From its inception in 2006 to 2020, LODERP has provided $1,845,342 in funding to 1,463 potential donors.

Other branches across the country have adopted the LODERP program based on BC’s model and anyone donating a kidney to a Canadian can apply for reimbursement. ■

The first Canadarm is delivered to NASA

1981

Singer Burton Cummings (The Guess Who) films benefit concert for The Kidney Foundation

1981

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

A Few Key Achievements in Programs & Services

Targeted Screening Made in BC kidney disease prevention program reaches far and wide Because there are often no symptoms until kidney disease is quite advanced, many people aren’t aware that they have the disease until they’ve already lost most of their kidney function. Yet, the earlier someone knows they have compromised kidneys, the higher the chance of preventing or delaying the onset of kidney failure—mitigating the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.

In 2010, the Branch began to offer free screenings for early detection of kidney disease amongst those at higher risk for developing

kidney disease: people with high blood pressure or diabetes; seniors; and individuals from Aboriginal, Hispanic, Asian, South Asian or African descent.

Over the next nine years, the Targeted Screen Program, supported by CN and the BC Ministry of Health, criss-crossed the province, providing 101 screenings in communities across BC. Nurses were onsite to test kidney function, blood pressure, blood glucose levels and Body Mass Index, as well as urine for blood and protein. ■

Living Kidney Donors Share their Experiences with Others Interested in Doing the Same In 2017 the Branch launched the Living Donor Mentor Program to help increase the number of living kidney donors in BC. These living kidney donors act as mentors for other people considering being a living kidney donor. Since its launch, we had 46 referrals to the program.

Pictured below are 13 donors being trained as mentors. ■

Kidney Community Calls

New initiative supports kidney patients during pandemic In 2020, to help kidney patients’ emotional and mental well-being during the pandemic, the Branch developed Kidney Community Calls. Volunteers and kidney team members connected with patients through friendly, confidential, check-in phone calls. The primary purpose of these calls was to ask patients how they are doing, how they are coping, and to provide a warm and friendly voice and a listening ear. While this program was initiated during the pandemic, there is no end date in sight. From launch in May 2020, to the end of 2020, over 3,000 calls and connections were made. ■

Reginald T. Stott becomes the 6th President of the Branch

1981

Emoticons are first developed

1982

The metric system is officially adopted by the federal government although Imperial units are still used

1983

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Kidney Health Awareness, Education and Advocacy Efforts Kidney Community Celebrates Kidney Health Month Throughout the Years March has been designated as Kidney Health Month—a month dedicated to raising awareness and education about kidney disease. Here at the BC and Yukon Branch, our Chapters and volunteers have been very active hosting awareness events on World Kidney Day in their communities, attending health fairs, working with local media and political dignitaries to help draw attention to the cause. The Branch has also developed a long-standing partnership with BC Renal and together run provincial public awareness campaigns which has included media events, and kidney health messaging via on billboards, wrapped buses and various social media platforms. ■

March Drive – Annual door-to-door fundraising campaign – formally begins

1984

Gerald Sinclair becomes the 7th President of the Branch

1985

BC Transplant Society founded

1985

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Kidney Health Awareness, Education and Advocacy Efforts

Lights, Camera, Action!

Kidney TV show is launched

KIDNEY

With a goal to raise kidney health awareness, in 2016 the Branch created a Kidney Health TV show, Kidney PLUGGED IN, which began airing on SHAW TV in communities across BC. This half-hour, news-magazine style show promotes kidney health awareness and education in an innovative and lighthearted format, reaching many “at-risk” groups for kidney disease. Patient stories, “Ask the Expert” segments, research updates, fitness and cooking segments all have made up the over 160 unique episodes.

Kidney PLUGGED IN has continued to grow and expand and now airs two unique episodes a month on SHAW Spotlight (airing upwards of 12 times a week), one multicultural episode each month airing on SHAW Multicultural Channel twice weekly (in French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi, Portuguese and other languages). The Kidney PLUGGED IN YouTube channel officially launched in 2020, has over 1,550 subscribers and 322,000 views and counting. ■

The kidney community creates a sea of green each April 7th on Green Shirt Day. This day is dedicated to raising organ donor awareness and registration, and recognizes the generous organ donation act of Logan Boulet.

Expo 86 World's Fair held in Vancouver

1986

Dr. John Price Scholarship Program launches

1986

George Barclay becomes the 8th President of the Branch

1986

Gerald Sinclair becomes the 9th President of the Branch

1987

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Kidney Health Awareness, Education and Advocacy Efforts

Advocacy in Action With 80% of all transplants being kidney transplants, in 2014 the Branch committed to increasing organ donor awareness and registration by 50% over five years. We held 12 community conversations across BC to gather the public’s input and identify barriers and solutions to organ donation registration.

We then produced a full report detailing recommendations to British Columbians and this research became the roadmap to our five-year Kidney Transplantation and Organ Donor Registration Campaign.

The need for “One Strong Voice” from the kidney community was a theme we heard from volunteers and supporters. The public recommended that the kidney community and experts be brought together to discover and discuss the barriers to saving lives through organ donation. ■

Tony McArthur becomes the 10th President of the Branch

1990

Branch Engages Kidney Community through First-Ever Kidney Summit Over 400 kidney patients, caregivers, volunteers, government policy makers, health care professionals, media and experts travelled from across Canada to the Vancouver Convention Centre in May 2015 to engage in a day of conversation and debate on issues that matter to kidney patients and their families.

This Kidney Summit established a solid foundation for the kidney community to speak with one voice, and in the years that followed, kidney patients and volunteers have continued to build awareness and education about the importance of registering to be an organ donor.

Their efforts were rewarded by seeing the provincial government make it easier to register as an organ donor (at any one of 62 Service Centres outside the Lower Mainland). ■

Microsoft releases Windows 3.0

1990

The Branch gets permission to place coin collectors in government liquor stores

1990

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Kidney Health Awareness, Education and Advocacy Efforts

Saving Lives through Organ Donation Engages Community Leaders In 2016 the Branch introduced a new campaign “Saving Lives through Organ Donation” and engaged with leaders in the community to help increase organ donor awareness and registration. In particular, the Members of Union of BC Municipalities passed a resolution put forth by the Kidney Foundation that called for local governments to help support organ donation in their communities. This effort was in large thanks to all the volunteers who met with their local Mayors and Councils, shared their stories and advocated the need for increased organ donation.

The Branch also launched the “Employer and Employees: Saving Lives through Organ Donation” campaign later the same year in Kelowna.

We asked employers to use their human resource policies to encourage employees to register their wishes for organ donation though BC’s organ donor registry. One of our biggest supporters of the campaign was the BC Association of Chiefs of Police who were thanked at a press conference for their amazing support. ■

Annual Car Raffle kicks off

1990

Kidney Kids Send Message that Kidney Disease can Affect Anyone at Any Age In 2016 the Branch created a special opportunity for children impacted by kidney disease to come together. Through sharing their stories and special dance performances, they helped increase kidney health awareness and brought home the fact that kidney disease can affect anyone at any age.

The “Kidney Kids” performed at many events and locations including Kidney Gala, a Chief of Police media event and at the BC Legislature. This initiative also benefited the children and their families—helping to build confidence and foster new friendships and avenues for peer support. ■

Seinfeld premieres on NBC, The Simpsons debuts on Fox, and General Hospital airs its 7,000th episode

1990

The Cold War ends and East and West Germany reunite

1990

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Coming Together over 50 Years to Raise Funds in Support of Kidney Patients The kidney community—patients,

stakeholders, volunteers, family, loved ones, renal health care professionals and other supporters—are the engine behind our fundraising efforts and success at the Branch. The Foundation’s vision to achieve excellent kidney health, optimal quality of life, and a cure for kidney disease, cannot be accomplished without financial support for programs, services, and research.

The Branch has a rich history of creative and innovative fundraising events, activities, galas, legacy giving and stewardship resulting in a diversified strategy to raise revenue. In the early years the chief source of fundraising included the Kerrisdale Circus sponsored by the Vancouver City Police Benevolent Association, Cyclo-thon and door-to-door fundraising campaigns which became popular in the 70’s and 80’s, culminating in the creation of March Drive in 1981.

The 90’s brought the Twoonie Tower, Twoonie Trot, car raffles, Kidney Komedy Night, Safari Adventure at Vancouver Game Farm, cycling challenges across Canada, Round Up for Research, Pull Tab campaign and Kidney Car. As we moved into the 2000’s, the Branch entered into larger scale events including Kidney Walk and Kidney Gala.

Strategic partnerships have been an important driver in our fundraising success that have extended the reach of the Branch and provided fun and easy ways for people to support the Foundation and kidney community.

Internet technology has changed the way we connect and communicate with each other and so the methods of fundraising have also changed throughout the years. Now, we are able to leverage the internet and social media to reach new people and incorporate

Our volunteers and participants are critical to our fundraising success and our ability to continue to make a difference for kidney patients. online versions of event registration, donating, silent auctions and more. The internet and social media also allow participants to communicate with potential supporters and fellow participants in new and engaging ways, oftentimes, year-round and with little or no geographic limitations.

All of this technology though does not have an effect without people power. Our volunteers and participants are critical to our fundraising success and our ability to continue to make a difference for kidney patients. ■

A Scenic Cycle around Stanley Park Benefits Kidney Patients 1974 was the year of one of our first major fundraisers—Cyclo-thon began.

Over 1,500 people gathered pledges and then rode 5-mile loops around Vancouver's Stanley Park—earning funds for each mile completed. In its first year, Cyclo-thon raised $31,000 and the proceeds were used to buy a dialysis machine. Cyclo-thon was an annual event, held in different locations, for at least 14 years.

Marcia Bell becomes the 11th President of the Branch

1991

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) comes into effect

1991

Foundation hosts first-ever Round Up for Research fundraiser

1991

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Coming Together over 50 Years to Raise Funds in Support of Kidney Patients

March Drive

Thousands of volunteer canvassers raise some serious funds over 40 years Thousands and thousands of volunteers over the years have canvassed door-to-door—raising funds and awareness of kidney disease and organ donation through the March Drive.

March Drive has raised over $16 million to support kidney patients. The campaign reached its peak in 2007, raising $891,000 with 15,400 volunteers knocking on doors in one month!

The volunteer canvassers had everything to do with this success. Some stand-out canvassers gave of their time every year, for 40-plus years—a feat that pre-dates the formal creation of March Drive. ■

Dr. Roberta Bondar becomes the first Canadian woman in space

1992

13 BC Kidney transplant patients attend VIII World Transplant Games in Budapest, Hungary

1992

New lifetime membership “gold” cards launch

1992

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Coming Together over 50 Years to Raise Funds in Support of Kidney Patients

Twoonie Campaign

Round Up for Research

Kidney transplant recipient, Rudy Miket, peers at the top of the record-breaking Twoonie Tower.

Funds and fame go to new heights

Community leaders and supporters get bailed from jail to support the cause

Remember the famous Twoonie Campaign? Launched in 1996, the Branch ran the Twoonie Campaign until 2000. This unique initiative gave people several ways to fundraise based on the size of a Twoonie (e.g. a foot long of twoonies equals $104).

On September 8, 1996, a group of engineers created a Twoonie Tower out of all the change that had been donated. This collection effort led to our induction into the Guinness World Records, having built the most valuable tower of coins worth $85,618.07, standing at 6’1” tall. ■

In over 30 BC communities from 1991 to 2011, community VIPs were “rounded up”, arrested and thrown in “county jail.” In order make bail, they had to call friends, family, co-workers and business contacts to raise funds for kidney patients. Round up for Research raised more than a million dollars and delighted participants and spectators during its 20-year run. ■

New fundraising initiative for 2021, Kidney Cans, provides an easy way to recycle your beverage containers at any Return-It Express Kiosk and have your refund benefit the BC & Yukon Branch.

Rosalie Starzomski becomes the 12th President of the Branch

1993

Pull tab fundraising campaign started

1994

First public forum on Living Donation was held in Vancouver (co-sponsored by Kidney Foundation and BC Transplant)

1994

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Coming Together over 50 Years to Raise Funds in Support of Kidney Patients

Kidney Walk

From Trout Lake to Whitehorse, a community fundraising success story

What began in 2008 as a leisurely stroll around Trout Lake by a group of Scotsmen and women (The Sons of Scotland), has expanded and morphed into one of our most successful grassroots fund and awareness-raising events for the Branch.

The Sons of Scotland, a fraternal benevolent society since 1876, has to be thanked for that first “Tartan Stroll” and for their efforts as initial supporters and champions of what would become Kidney Walk.

Kidney Walk has been held in upwards of 16 communities during any given year. The success of each community walk always depends on hundreds of volunteers, walk participants and sponsors who continue to go above and beyond. They reach out to their networks to raise those critical dollars, sponsor local walks, organize silent auctions, sell children’s art, host beer and burger nights, do bake sales, set up tents, take down tents, etc.

Local dignitaries or media personalities often emcee the community events and members of the kidney community share their stories. Often there are awards, prizes, music and food.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and safety concerns, the Kidney Walk went virtual in 2020 and 2021. This did not deter our kidney community who continued to fundraise like never before.

Since it’s beginnings, 12,756 people have participated in Kidney Walk, walking an estimated 31,890 KM. Over $3.5 million has been raised for critical programs and services to support kidney patients and their families. ■

Richard Baker becomes the 13th President of the Branch

1995

Kidney Car launches in BC

1995

Canada introduces the Twoonie

1996

Marcia Bell becomes National President of The Kidney Foundation and the only National president to date from BC or The Yukon

1997

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Coming Together over 50 Years to Raise Funds in Support of Kidney Patients

Kidney Gala

Kidney Gala has evolved from a cocktail reception in 2013, co-hosted by our Branch and the Canadian Society of Nephrology, to full-scale in-person events with over 300 guests, and then to over 600 virtual guests in 2021. The Gala has always given the kidney community an opportunity to gather (in person and virtually) and shine a light on kidney disease. The Kidney Gala supports world-class, innovative kidney research in Canada, and program support services for kidney patients across BC and The Yukon.

Shining a light to support kidney patients and research over past 9 years

Sue Peterson becomes the 14th President of the Branch

1997

BC Transplant launches Organ Donor Registry.

This replaces the organ donor decal program.

1997

To witness the kidney community of patients, loved ones, nephrologists, renal healthcare workers, allied health professionals, and researchers come together to support this important cause makes for a truly inspirational night.

The Gala is always an elegant, wellorchestrated evening where attendees are entertained by incredible hosts including Mi-Jung Lee (CTV), Norma Reid (CTV), Sophie Lui (Global News), Fred Lee (Vancouver’s “Man about Town”), moved by inspirational speakers and delighted by fabulous entertainment.

Memorable moments include a surprise funding announcement from the Ministry of Health, a special Kidney Kids dance presentation, a nostalgic throwback to the 90s by Canadian hip hop pioneer Maestro Fresh, and speakers Toby and Bernadette Boulet (parents of the late Logan Boulet, who tragically passed away in the Humboldt Broncos bus crash after registering his wishes to become an organ donor, inspiring a nation to do the same).

In the last nine years, the Kidney Gala has raised $1.89 million. A special mention to Honorary Gala Chair Dr. Adeera Levin for her visionary role behind the creation of the Gala and her dedication to its vision, year-after-year. ■

The BC Provincial Renal Agency (BCPRA) becomes a reality, coordinating kidney patient care for all of BC

1997

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Starry Night Gala

THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

In 2019, the inaugural South Asian Starry Night Gala was launched as part of an initiative to engage the South Asian Community and raise awareness regarding kidney disease, risk factors, and organ donation. Starry Night Gala raised $50,000 and laid a foundation for future initiatives to support the South Asian community. ■

Starry Night featured speakers including living kidney transplant donors and the Honourable Adrian Dix, Minister of Health (pictured).

Co-hosts, nationally renowned transplant nephrologist Dr. Jagbir Gill and Global BC’s Sonia Deol engage in a fireside chat at Starry Night.

Kidney Car

earns proud title as largest source of revenue for Branch The Branch followed in the footsteps of sister provinces Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario, launching Kidney Car in 1995, and now it is the longest running car donation program in BC. Kidney Car is the largest source of revenue for our Branch and an average of 5,000 cars are donated in BC every year.

Kidney Car benefits vehicle owners, the environment and those affected by kidney disease. ■

Kidney March

British Columbians and Yukoners join this epic event Kidney March is an initiative started by the Southern Alberta Branch of The Kidney Foundation in 2010. It is a three-day, 100 KM walk from Kananaskis Country to Calgary to raise funds and awareness in the fight against kidney disease and for organ donation. In 2020 and 2021, Marchers participated virtually and marched the 100KM in their communities across Canada and beyond.

The BC & Yukon Branch formally joined Kidney March in 2019 with the creation of Team BeCauseYuKan. Team Northern I-B-Pro-Fun FREE joined in 2020.

To date, both teams have raised close to $200,000 for the BC & Yukon Branch. Overall, Kidney March has raised over $10 million, nationwide, in its 12 years. ■

Anne Nickerson becomes the 15th President of the Branch

1999

Individuals and companies gripped by the "Y2K scare".

In the end, few major errors occurred primarily due to the pre-emptive action of many computer programmers and IT experts.

1999

The first Kidney Suite opens its doors

2000

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation 50 years ago, Sergeant Ken

socks to dialysis patients, marathons, swim-a-thons, local and cross-country cycling rides, organ donation awareness tours, special events and much more.

Time and time again Chapter members have helped us engage with stakeholders across BC and The Yukon and have demonstrated outstanding achievement in all aspects of raising organ donation awareness, advocacy and public education. They’ve supported patient services in many ways including making coffee cart visits to dialysis patients and organizing opportunities for patients and Our volunteers work on the front lines in their communities caregivers to meet and connect.

For 50 years, The Board President and behind the scenes, all and the Board of Directors have helped while spreading the word and steer the ship forward and have provided strategic and financial oversight to all carrying the message, mission that we do. They have offered up endless and vision of The Foundation. amounts of time, energy, professional insight, and experience.

In addition to supporting many Branch The first 50 years would not have driven initiatives, volunteers have led been possible without the outstanding the way by creating, pioneering and support, dedication, commitment, and spearheading countless unique and hard work of every single volunteer. fun fundraisers and events including Here, on the following pages, a few more barbeques, garage sales, roller-skating recent examples of when volunteers between provinces, pony rides, coin boxes, made a difference in the lives of people bake sales, music concerts in local parks, living with kidney disease and the kidney “Warm the Souls” campaign providing community. ■ Smith of the Vancouver City Police became the first volunteer and founding member of what is now known as The Kidney Foundation, BC & Yukon Branch.

Thousands of volunteers, including Board and Chapter leaders and members, have followed in Ken’s footsteps—coming together for a compelling cause and with the determination to make a difference for the kidney community.

Did you know? We have had 25 Board Presidents over the past 50 years, with two individuals serving twice. Do you know who they are?

Answer: Gerald Sinclair and Ron Walker

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Patricia Duncan becomes The Yukon’s first female premier

2000

Alan Beaton becomes the 16th President of the Branch

2001

Ron Walker becomes the 17th President of the Branch

2003

Our Chapters Throughout the Years We’ve had Chapters representing all corners of BC (and later, The Yukon) over the past 50 years. Our Chapter volunteers are the face of The Foundation and bring its work and mission to their local communities.

Central Island Chinese Renal Association Fraser Valley Kamloops Kelowna MSA Upper Fraser Valley North Okanagan Port Alberni Prince George Quesnel South Asian South Okanagan Surrey Trail Terrace Tri-Cities Vancouver Victoria Yukon

First anonymous living kidney donor transplant in BC

2004

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Victoria Family Creates Lasting Legacy through Special Event

Memorable Moments from Past Presidents ANNE NICKERSON

Over 20 years ago, the Hobbs family created the Kidneys on the Move event which has become an annual fundraiser to assist patients travelling to Vancouver for their kidney transplants. The fundraiser also promotes awareness of transplantation and registration for organ donation. Kidneys on the Move continues to this day as a legacy to the life and advocacy efforts of Doug Hobbs and has raised over $100,000 for the BC & Yukon Branch. ■

1999 to 2001

“Sincere congratulations to the BC & Yukon Branch of The Kidney Foundation of Canada on their 50th anniversary—what a milestone! While serving on the Board as a member and Past President between 1997 - 2003, I had the honour and privilege of working with so many dedicated volunteers and staff. Thank you, BC & Yukon Branch, for all you have done, and continue to do, in assisting individuals and families like ours with education, resources and ongoing support!” ■

Doug (kidney transplant recipient) and Maureen Hobbs, co-founders of Kidneys on the Move (KOTM).

Chapter leaders share memorable moments

ANNE SCHULTZ

PAUL RAVELLE - Prince George

2015 to 2018

“To me, the Kidney Foundation is not so much about a memorable moment or accomplishment, but rather the sense of community. The interactions, and support, between kidney patients, caregivers, health care professionals, and the staff of the Kidney Foundation, to improve the quality of life for those people dealing with kidney disease.” ■

“I was fortunate as a board member to observe the incredible growth of the Branch both financially and in program delivery.

The birth of the first strategic plan led to increases in the productive engagement of health authorities, volunteers, and financial supports. Seeing the strategic direction come alive and move forward, confirmed that good board governance and excellent branch/volunteer operations gets things done. We all should be proud of what has been accomplished and will be accomplished into the future.” ■

Tony Ramalho becomes the 18th President of the Branch

2005

Branch launches LODERP (Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program)

2006

For the first time, the three territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut) have a combined population of over 100,000

2007

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation

O2P Dragon Boat Team Created in 2000 and spearheaded by Arlene Wong and Dr. Tony Chiu, the O2P dragon boat team has gathered kidney patients, kidney transplant recipients, kidney donors, and their supporters to form a paddling kidney community.

They encourage each other to exercise regularly to promote physical, social, and emotional well-being. O2P also promotes public awareness of kidney disease and the importance of organ donation.

Over the years, they have participated in the Concord Pacific Vancouver Dragon Boat Festival All Access Friday Barrier Free Canada Cup and in 2017, raised $13,815 for the BC & Yukon Branch. ■

Cycling for a Miracle In 1994, Suzanne MacLean, embarked on an

ambitious feat—to ride her bike across Canada to raise funds for transplant research and awareness of organ donation.

Suzanne was on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) when she cycled 8,681 KM across the country. Along the way, she garnered levels of support —from renal staff and patients at St. Paul’s Hospital, then Lieutenant-Governor David Lam and Mrs. Lam, several major companies, and others she encountered along her way—that were unprecedented for our Branch at the time. Her extraordinary efforts were even recognized by the House of Commons where she was lauded for generating “tremendous public support for organ donations.” ■

Chapter leaders share memorable moments FINDERSON ALVES - Tri Cities “Our Chapter used to regularly attend Service Club meetings in the Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody and area," says Finderson. “These meetings gave us great opportunities to share the aims and objectives of The Foundation, to provide information about kidney disease, to receive donations for the Branch and to build relationships – some of which continue to this day.” ■

Ken Merkley becomes the 19th President of the Branch

2007

The first Kidney Walk is a leisurely stroll around Trout Lake in Vancouver

2008

Glen Wilson becomes the 20th President of the Branch

2009

The great recession is at its most severe in Canada

2009

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Volunteer Nurses Bring Dazzling Chinese Opera in Vancouver Since 2012, the annual Jun Hua’s Chinese Opera fundraiser—spearheaded by dedicated VGH kidney clinic nurses Patricia Leung and Linda Kwan—has been dazzling audiences and raising funds for the BC & Yukon Branch. Chinese Opera is an art-form that includes music, dance, acting, mime, comedy, tragedy, acrobatics and martial arts to create an experience that goes beyond language. Thank you to the Chinese Renal Association for organizing this unique event that has raised over $97,000 to support kidney patients. ■

Chapter leaders share memorable moments TERRY CHAN Chinese Renal Association "One of the things I am most proud of is the support we provide to the Chinese kidney patient families. Many of these families don’t understand the language and/or culture, so translating the information and sharing experience has been critical for many patient journeys over the years.”

Chapter leaders share memorable moments JAMIE BOITTIAUX Victoria Chapter “We have so enjoyed the education booth at Royal Jubilee Hospital each World Kidney Day, where we make it a focus to have at least one person fill out their organ donor registration form. Our draws for anyone that signs up with us while we’re there, are also very well received. We are constantly shocked at how many people think organ donor registration is still on their drivers license. One organ donor saves up to 8 lives!” ■

Branch launches a new and innovative fund development brand: Recycle for Life

2010

Vancouver hosts the XXI Olympic Winter Games

2010

ADA CHEUNG Chinese Renal Association “One very successful campaign that stands out to me was 2007’s Time to Promise,” says former Chinese Renal Association leader Ada. “This project invited 50 BC celebrities—well-known politicians, city counselors, media personalities, authors, musicians, and artists—to gather at Chinatown’s S.U.C.C.E.S.S location and sign organ donation cards. They expressed their support of organ donation while being filmed or recorded by the Vancouver Sun, Fairchild TV and Global TV. It was a great success! BC Transplant informed us that signed organ donation cards poured in from the public in the following months.” ■

Dr. Morrison Hurley becomes the 21st President of the Branch

2011

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Past Board President Leads Way for E. coli Awareness When Lauren was three she became seriously ill from Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), caused by E.coli, which damaged her kidneys. Lauren was first put on dialysis and then, mom and past Branch President, Anne donated a kidney to her daughter. The Jackie family became advocates for kidney health and organ donation. They created The Jackie Family Fund, educational materials on E. coli, and Anne tirelessly shared their story at public events and through the media, creating widespread awareness and education. ■

Chapter leaders share memorable moments SID ADAMS (February 20, 1945 - November 9, 2021) North Okanagan The song Sid sang in his 2021 Kidney Walk video says all, “It takes strength, hope and courage to make it through each day, just ask a kidney patient that’s what they’ll say.” Sid was instrumental in creating the North Okanagan Chapter and shared his vision with all Chapter members—a vision to bring kidney families together to support each other, and to raise awareness of kidney disease and the urgent need for organ donors. ■

Chapter leaders share memorable moments ANNICK LIM - South Okanagan “Volunteering for The Kidney Foundation and helping the public to register their wishes for organ donor registration has helped me to cross paths with people I wouldn't have originally had the opportunity to meet.

Our Chapter has had so much positive feedback over the years and many people thank us for being there to help them solidify the decision they'd already made a long time ago and finally make the commitment to actually register their wishes.” ■

Branch introduces a Targeted Screening Program to encourage early detection of kidney disease

2011

BC Lions win sixth Grey Cup

2011

Ron Walker becomes the 22nd President of the Branch

2013

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Kidney Friends Circle Fosters a Vibrant Virtual Community A volunteer, Community Chapter driven initiative, Kidney Friends Circle Facebook group, was created in 2020 to provide a safe online space where patients, caregivers, family members and friends of those living with kidney disease including the health professionals who care for them, can come together to share lived experiences, learn about upcoming events, opportunities to get involved, and more. The group also hosts monthly meetings that are part informational and part social.

There are almost 250 members of Kidney Friends Circle who support each other in this unique way. ■

Chapter leaders share memorable moments MOHAN TATRA - South Asian “Since its inception, members of the South Asian Chapter have attended many meetings and participated in many programs on kidney disease and organ donation in our community,” says Mohan. “One stand-out for me is the organ donor tent we set up at Vaisakhi parade in Surrey. Participating in this community event gave us the opportunity to interact with thousands of people at one time. Another stand-out was when we worked with the Branch to facilitate eight kidney pre-screening events at various Sikh Temples in Surrey and Vancouver. We also manned a pre-screening event targeting the South Asian community in Nanaimo.” ■

BC Branch hosts the inaugural Shine a Light Kidney Gala together with Canadian Society of Nephrology (now called Kidney Gala)

2013

50th anniversary of The Kidney Foundation of Canada

2014

Canada's women's hockey team wins fourth Olympic gold medal

2014

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Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Chapter leaders share memorable moments KATRINA MCANDREW Vancouver Kidney Club “I would say for us that one of our most memorable accomplishments was our involvement in the Vancouver Kidney Walk. We’ve been there every year with a team helping to raise thousands of dollars. Our group has also provided volunteers for several other Branch events like Kidney Gala. The dedication and length of service of many club members is also something that stands out. Many have been members for 10 years or more!” ■

Memorable Moments from Past Presidents

Memorable Moments from Past Presidents

KEN MERKLEY

TERESA ATKINSON

“One of my proudest accomplishments during my tenure as President of the BC Branch was to increase the profile of organ donor awareness in the province and across Canada,” says Ken. “During my tenure we developed a Promoters of Organ Donation (POD) speaker’s bureau, engaging in over 200 speaking engagements to clubs and organizations to encourage members to register their organ donation wishes, raised public awareness by frequently speaking to the media about our experiences with kidney transplantation and initiated and implemented the 3-year pilot for the Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement program (LODERP) which has since been introduced across the country.”

“During my tenure, we rebranded the organization with a brave new look and feel to raise our public profile and encourage all Canadians to learn the importance of their kidneys and how to protect them. Then the challenges of COVID-19 and isolation hit.

While many charities had to close-up shop, we came together as “one Foundation.”

With everyone working from home, we built teams of staff and volunteers to collaborate from coast-to-coast. We successfully transformed our traditional in-person events to virtual ones. We learned to use online communication tools and went back to traditional personal phone calls and became better connected. Thanks to all the work of those before, we are surviving this very extraordinary time and are become a stronger more cohesive organization, better connected within our community.” ■

2007 to 2009

2018 to 2021

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The Yukon joins the Branch.

BC Branch becomes the BC & Yukon Branch.

2015

Ann Shultz becomes the 23rd President of the BC & Yukon Branch

2015

Northern Travel pilot program begins

2015

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Memorable Moments from Past Presidents RON WALKER

2003 to 2005 and 2013 to 2015 “One of the highlights of my second term as President (2013-2015) was the organ donor conference organized by Karen Philp during her term as Executive Director of the Branch. This was a large conference held at the Vancouver Convention Center and was the first real venture of the Branch outside hotel conference rooms.

It featured several prominent kidney professionals and thoughtful panel discussions. The event was televised by local media, putting the Foundation much further into the pubic view than it had previously been.” ■

Chapter leaders share memorable moments CARMEN KOMISH - Yukon “What I remember was just how successful the Kidney Walks have been and how very generous Yukoners are, raising over $140k since joining the BC and Yukon Branch seven years ago,” says Carmen. ■

First Kidney Transplant Summit

2015

British Columbians can register their wishes for organ donation through Service BC Centres and ICBC drivers license locations

2016

PLUGGED IN kidney health TV show launches

2016

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Volunteers Rock the Foundation

Leadership Weekend Brings Volunteer Leaders Together An important annual event throughout the history of the Branch is Leadership Weekend which brings the Board and Chapters leader from around the province together for our Annual General Meeting, educational sessions, information sharing and the invaluable opportunity to network with each other.

During the awards portion of the weekend, we honour our volunteers who’ve used their passion, energy, time and talents to make a difference in the lives of kidney patients. ■

Canada celebrates 150th anniversary

2017

Living Donor Mentor program launches

2017

Teresa Atkinson becomes the 24th President of the BC & Yukon Branch

2018

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THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Leadership Weekend Brings Volunteer Leaders Together

Nanaimo Kidney Condo opens

2019

South Asian Starry Night Benefit takes place

2019

Life expectancy in Canada is 82 years

2019

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New Kidney Foundation logo and brand released

2020

THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

First virtual Kidney Walk

2020

Yukon permanently ends Daylight Saving Time

2020

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100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin

2021

THE KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF CANADA | BC & YUKON BRANCH 50th ANNIVERSARY | WINTER 2021

Wayde Hayley becomes the 25th President of the BC & Yukon Branch

2021

First virtual Kidney Gala

2021

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Kidney Foundation BC & Yukon Branch 200 - 4940 Canada Way Burnaby, BC V5G 4K6 604 736 9775 | 1 800 567 8112

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