the
FOUNDATION
report
Winter 2021
in this issue: MESSAGE FROM UHKF PRESIDENT AND CEO Page 2
HONOURING YOUR CAREGIVER CAN SAVE LIVES Page 4
DONORS HELP PUT KINGSTON ON THE MAP FOR BREAST CANCER IMAGING AND PROCEDURES Page 7
Managing Mental Health Through the Holidays The holiday season is often a pivotal time of year and a period of celebration and togetherness. The dizzying array of responsibilities and demands may leave many people feeling stressed or anxious. For others, it may also be a time of extreme loneliness, isolation and depression. By being balanced, planning ahead, seeking and offering support, we can help minimize these potential problems for ourselves and others. “One reason for concern is the time of year. With less natural daylight compared to summertime, many people suffer from ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder’ and vitamin D deficiency, both of which adversely affect mood and energy levels,” says Dr. Deji Ayonrinde, Providence Care’s Clinical Director for Community Mental Health programs. “It’s also a time of self-reflection and
evaluation for many of us, which can cause regret and anxiety. Thankfully, the treatments are quite simple – a special indoor lamp that simulates natural daylight, the use of vitamin D supplements and a balanced approach to any New Year’s resolutions or big life decisions.” For those impacted by loneliness and isolation, it’s important to try and speak with someone you feel comfortable with. Connecting in person is ideal, but phone and video calls will help too. But it’s important each of us remains vigilant and reach out to anyone who may need our help. “The responsibility is on each of us in our community to reach out to anyone who may be struggling. That smile, hello or short phone call might make a world of difference to someone else,” says Dr. Ayonrinde. Continued on page 2...
If you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out. If you think of someone who needs help, act now. Through the community spirit Kingston is known for, perhaps we can all find peace and joy during the holidays. Managing Mental Health Through the Holidays Continued from page 1. “For those that have them, pets can also help improve our well-being. Walking a dog, for instance, offers natural daylight, exercise and opportunities to be mindful, to observe nature, and even interact with others. It can create a completely different biorhythm that helps you relax. All of this on top of the benefits that pet companionship brings to combat loneliness.”
Maintaining healthy habits, such as eating well, getting plenty of sleep, exercising and avoiding excessive tobacco, alcohol and other substances, is very helpful. Perhaps the most important thing is learning to recognize your own holiday triggers and taking action early to counter them. Preventing stress is often a lot easier than treating it. “It’s important you recognize that some negative feelings may be natural and normal, even during the holidays and especially when combined
with the uncertainty of a pandemic,” says Dr. Ayonrinde. “If any feelings cause you extreme distress or affect your sleep or relationships, it’s worth speaking with your family physician. There are a number of things they can do to help.” If you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out. If you think of someone who needs help, act now. Through the community spirit Kingston is known for, perhaps we can all find peace and joy during the holidays.
Message OF THANKS from UHKF President and CEO
Tom Zsolnay President and CEO UHKF
As we approach the end of another challenging year, I’d like to take this opportunity to send a heartfelt thank you to you – UHKF’s donor family.
This year you have shown the Kingston region, and the province at large, what it means to be a supportive, caring and thoughtful community. Whether it’s purchasing lifesaving equipment, volunteering or running events to raise vital funds for Kingston’s healthcare facilities, donors have been champions in our community’s time of need. It has inspired me beyond words. As the world approaches another winter during the pandemic, I would encourage everyone to remain patient and
vigilant, especially in relation to each other’s wellness and mental health. The anxieties and uncertainties of the pandemic continue to affect many in our community. If you need help, ask for it. If you see someone in need, reach out to them. Let’s build towards a brighter 2022, in the same way we got through this last year — together.
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UHKF 50/50 Lottery – You Win, Our Hospitals Win, We All Win! education, healthcare facilities and research that benefit the 500,000 people living in Kingston, southeastern Ontario and beyond. Many donors have been inspired to purchase tickets because of their amazing patient experiences, such as August jackpot winner Nikki Pearson. Her husband, Todd, had quadruple bypass surgery at KHSC after an angiogram discovered the main artery to his heart was 100% blocked.
Pictured: Jennifer Rodgers, September jackpot winner.
“Wow, wow, wow!”, “My jaw just about hit the floor” and “I’m in shock!” are just some of the reactions from jackpot winners of the monthly UHKF 50/50 lottery. The UHKF 50/50 is an online game where individuals purchase tickets for the opportunity to win 50% of the total money raised through the sale of tickets for each draw. Jennifer Rodgers, the September jackpot winner, was working when she received the surprising news she won! “I’ve worked at Kingston Health Sciences Centre for 15 years,” says Jennifer. “I think the UHKF 50/50 is great. It gives people the opportunity to help and support their local hospitals while giving them a chance to win something.”
“Now that Todd is at a point where he’s himself again and everything is wonderful, I think how differently it could have turned out,” says Nikki. “Fortunately, he had great people at the hospital and the care he received was absolutely incredible… From the doctors to the nurses to the cleaning staff to the men and women who brought the food trays, they were all so kind and wonderful. And Todd came out of it with a new lease on life.” July jackpot winner Corrie was also motivated to give back. “My husband and I have both been through cancer treatment and we feel very lucky with the hospitals that we have,” says Corrie. “That’s why the 50/50 lottery is an excellent idea and the more people that know about it the better.” UHKF is excited about this new fundraising initiative and would like to thank all community members who have participated thus far. Please continue to help us spread the word because when you win, our hospitals win, we all win! Get your chance to win today! Visit www.uhkflottery.ca.
“I’m thrilled that I won but I obviously did not expect to. I only entered to support UHKF and help the community,” says Mary Myers, June jackpot winner. “I was just so surprised,” says Corrie Barrett, July jackpot winner. “I’m not usually that lucky. We’re still getting used to it but thank you to UHKF!” The other 50% per cent of the lottery’s proceeds support Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) and Providence Care, contributing towards much-needed equipment, programs,
Lottery Licence #RAF 1206801 3 | WINTER 2021
Honouring Your Caregiver Can Save Lives ART HIVE An Honour Your Caregiver (HYC) gift is a wonderful way to show appreciation for the staff at Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) and Providence Care, while providing much-needed funding for equipment, education, research, facilities and more.
Thanks to a generous donor who gifted $100,000 to honour Dr. Stephen Archer and KHSC’s Cardiology Department through the HYC Program, the Cardiac Care team will soon be able to implement a new electronic medical record system, purchase a new Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) machine and create a database for KHSC’s Heart Failure Clinic. This new equipment will improve patient care and enable participation in research projects, offer
swifter patient diagnoses and treatment, and facilitate participation in clinical trials of new drugs. “I have been very touched by this gift from a remarkable and intelligent patient of mine,” says Dr. Archer, a cardiologist and Program Medical Director for Medicine at KHSC. “The donation will have a significant impact, including being the difference between funding and not funding the lifesaving POCUS equipment. HYC gifts from donors, big or small, validate the work
that we do. It’s very flattering and encourages our team. Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured and grateful that we have received this substantial contribution that will benefit staff and patients for years to come.” If there is a caregiver you would like to recognize, you can honour your caregiver too! Visit www.uhkf.ca or fill out the form below.
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YES! I WANT TO SUPPORT LIFE-SAVING CARE... Cut out this form and mail to: University Hospitals Kingston Foundation, 55 Rideau Street, Suite 4, Kingston ON, K7K 2Z8
I wish to support care by making a monthly gift of $ 10th day of the month. I wish to support care by making a single gift of $
which will be withdrawn on the .
I am interested in learning about planning a fundraising event. Please send me more information. Method of payment: I have enclosed a blank cheque payable to UHKF, marked “VOID” for my monthly gift. I prefer to donate by credit card. Visa
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American Express
Name on card:
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Expiry date:
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Signature:
We recognize donors by name in our publications: I do not wish my name to be published. You may change or cancel your monthly gift at any time. Tax receipts will be issued for all qualifying gifts of $20 or more. Charitable Registration No. 820218147R0001. We do not sell or rent our mailing lists.
UHKF Awards Philanthropists and Volunteers THE DAVIES AWARD FOR PHILANTHROPIC LEADERSHIP
THE IAN WILSON AWARD FOR VOLUNTEERING IN FUNDRAISING
The Davies Awards were first presented by Kingston philanthropists, Michael and Elaine Davies, through the Kingston General Hospital Foundation, in honour of its 25th anniversary in 2005. Recipients of the Davies Award are individuals, organizations and community groups who have demonstrated outstanding philanthropic leadership benefitting Kingston’s healthcare facilities and ultimately, the care of our families, friends and neighbours in southeastern Ontario.
The Ian Wilson award was established in 2011 at the close of the “Together We Can” campaign to honour individuals who, like Ian Wilson, set themselves apart by their incredible commitment, their undying enthusiasm, and the sheer number of hours they devote to their volunteer roles on behalf of UHKF and our healthcare organizations. Recipients are volunteers who demonstrate outstanding efforts in the solicitation of donations benefitting our healthcare facilities through an event, organized campaign or informal activity.
Davies Award Recipient: Rose of Hope (pictured above) The visionary women behind the Rose of Hope golf tournament have raised nearly $2.5 million during their 23-year commitment to improving the diagnosis and care for women with breast cancer in the Kingston region. In 2018, the Rose of Hope committee signed a five-year pledge to raise $500,000 which they completed in 2020, two years ahead of schedule and during a pandemic. Thanks to Rose of Hope, and other generous donors, Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is now constructing a new Breast Assessment Centre which will elevate local breast cancer services to a new level of sophistication, significantly reducing wait times and providing a state-of-the-art environment for patients. UHKF is grateful for the continued passion and outstanding leadership shown by Rose of Hope as they support access to quality health care for those in the community that need it most.
Ian Wilson Award Recipient: John Armitage (pictured below) For over three decades, John Armitage has volunteered when it counted the most. John has a bold, strategic and collaborative approach, and he is generous with his knowledge and network. His ability to open doors and make new healthcare champions in the construction industry and the local business community is unparalleled. Despite a busy career in construction and family commitments, he has once again volunteered as a fundraising champion. John has been the recipient of excellent health care at the Kingston hospitals, and he appreciates the important role they play in making Kingston a great place for families and professionals to live and do business. UHKF is lucky to have John Armitage in its corner as the Foundation embarks on an ambitious capital campaign for the next phase of redevelopment at Kingston’s hospitals.
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UHKF Awards Philanthropists and Volunteers THE SISTER DOROTHY FOURNIER AWARD FOR VOLUNTEERISM Last year, UHKF established the Sister Dorothy Fournier Award for Volunteerism to recognize the outstanding contribution of long-time UHKF volunteer, Sister Dorothy (“Sister D”). The award is granted to an individual, organization or community group who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer commitment by dedicating their time to UHKF in support of work efforts, event preparation and mission moments, all to benefit health care in Kingston.
Sister Dorothy Fournier Award Recipient: Jessica Hutchings (pictured above) Jessica Hutchings and her daughter, SpencerElizabeth, have been dedicated volunteers since 2018. The story of Spencer-Elizabeth’s birth, long NICU stay and countless other specialist appointments at KHSC, has inspired donors to contribute nearly $334,000 collectively through UHKF. Support for our partner sites is more than just giving gifts, it’s also coming together wherever possible to inspire the community and share the great work that both KHSC and Providence Care do. As volunteers, Jessica and Spencer-Elizabeth have logged countless hours over the last two years—meeting with Foundation staff, attending media events, being interviewed for stories, appearing for photo and video opportunities, and more. Jessica’s support has helped UHKF raise mission-critical funds and showcase a truly inspirational care story with the community at large. Jessica truly embodies the spirit of a grateful patient and family member, and demonstrates outstanding volunteer commitment.
From left to right: Elaine Davies, Sherri McCullough and Caroline Davies.
Ian Wilson and John Armitage.
Tom Zsolnay, Marie Mackenzie (UHKF staff member), Jessica and Spencer-Elizabeth Hutchings.
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Donors Help Put Kingston on the Map for Breast Cancer Imaging and Procedures Finding a breast lump or abnormality can cause an enormous amount of anxiety for patients and their families. For years, patients with cancer in southeastern Ontario have had to visit multiple hospital sites or clinics in different Kingston locations to receive imaging and treatment, including equipment in need of replacement. Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) staff have consistently desired the opportunity to give a better care experience to their patients. Thanks to the generosity and passion of donors, that dream has now become a reality. Slated to begin opening in early 2022, the new Breast Imaging Kingston Centre will be a cutting edge clinical facility off of Highway 15 in the east end of Kingston. It will house all things breast cancer imaging and diagnosis care in one accessible location, with private and comfortable spaces for patients.
“We said at the beginning that if we were going to do this, we wanted to create a centre that allows the highest level of breast imaging care in North America, and I think we’ve accomplished that,” says Karen Pearson, Director of Imaging Services at KHSC. In addition to the amalgamation of services, the centre will provide patients with access to the best possible breast care technology. “It gives me goose bumps and makes me emotional to think about how far we’ve come in this journey,” says Eric Sauerbrei, Radiologist and head of the Women’s Imaging Section of the Department of Radiology at KHSC. “Now, not only do we expect our wait times to decrease significantly with this new centre, we’ll increase our rate of cancer detection because the new technology will be that much more sensitive and accurate.”
notable and influential are the visionary women behind the Rose of Hope golf tournament, and the ever generous and philanthropic A. Britton Smith. This centre would not have been possible without them. “I am happy to contribute to the advancement of breast imaging locally,” says A. Britton Smith. “We are very proud to be a part of this wonderful new centre that will save a lot of lives,” says Sherri McCullough, Cataraqui Golf and Country Club and Rose of Hope Chair. “We are very grateful to our partners at the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation for all the support and encouragement they give us, and we would especially like to thank all of our members, donors and sponsors whose generosity and dedication has helped to make this dream come true.”
Numerous donors have made significant contributions towards the new centre. Two of the most 7 | WINTER 2021
the
FOUNDATION
report
WINTER 2021
Donors Brighten Spirits in the Holidays Imagine having no family or friends to celebrate holidays and exchange gifts with. This is the unfortunate reality for many of Providence Care’s patients, clients and residents. With the support of donors, Providence Care’s Patient Comfort Fund helps staff and volunteers to celebrate the holidays with the people they serve. Throughout the year, the fund helps purchase items supporting patient mobility technology ensuring connections with loved ones, as well as other comfort items or emergency funding for families experiencing difficulties with nonmedical costs. During the holidays, the fund also purchases hundreds of gifts for all patients and clients at Providence Care Hospital, and all active mental health services outpatients in our community. “We look after a lot of people who have no family or who have families far away,” says Janet Hunter, Providence Care’s Director of Volunteer Services. “But we want to ensure that everybody gets a gift during the holidays. For many of our patients, clients and residents it will be the only gift that they receive. It’s a way for us to show that we are thinking about them.” From clothing to gift cards to trinkets, these gifts have a huge impact on morale. Last year, gifts delivered to patients at Providence Care Hospital included locally-sourced, handmade quilts.
Everyone loved them. Staff and volunteers had never seen such moving reactions. “It was so beautiful watching the patients open the quilts. So many were crying because they had not received such a beautiful gesture as a holiday gift before,” says Janet. “They wrapped themselves in the quilts and showed them off to everybody. Patients still come by my office draped in their quilt saying how much they love having it on their bed every night. Even talking about it now I’m tearing up because it’s just amazing how those gifts made such a big difference in their lives.” Especially for those with family members who cannot visit or may not be able to afford to send gifts, the impact of receiving something means more than words can express. “We get a lot phone calls and thank you cards from family members who are out of town or who don’t have the funds to send a gift,” says Janet. “They are so thankful that their loved one is able to receive a thoughtful gift, and we know that they all enjoy and look forward to it each year. These holiday gifts truly leave a lasting impression on everyone involved!”
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