fall 2009
vim&vigour
findingfindingfindingharmonyharmony
breast cancer survivor sheryl crow fine-tunes her perspective on life and health
rheumatology care goes online
mental illness: a story of recoveryDESMOND TUTU CAPTIVATES ST. JOSEPH’Spage 4
Danone invests
millions in research at
St. Joseph’s
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457 King Street, London Ontario, Canada N6B 1S8 Telephone 519 439 8080 Facsimile 519439 8081 www.themarketingdepartment.ca
Legacy Giving ADfor Vim & Vigor MagazineDeadline Feb 20, 09
REVISION:
PLEASE GIVE.519 646 6085 www.sjhcfoundation.org
St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation supports St. Joseph’s Health Care, London, which includes St. Joseph’s Hospital, Parkwood Hospital, Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, Regional Mental Health Care London and St. Thomas, and Lawson Health Research Institute.
“ I’ve seen � rst-hand the gentle, compassionate and professional care o� ered at St. Joseph’s to women and children when they are in desperate need.”
Leith Coghlin’s legacy is to help ensure St. Joseph’s is able to provide compassionate care for women and children. That’s why he chose to support the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Program through a gift of life insurance.
There are many policy options, and monthly payments make it an a� ordable way to make a meaningful contribution to the advancement of patient care, teaching and research. You too can leave a legacy. Please contact us to learn more.
A legacy gift allows me to give more.
Leith Coghlin, pictured with Cheryl, Linda and Tammy of the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Program
FdVVFA0986_C2_Legacy Ad.indd 1 6/16/09 3:26:38 PM
I❋ incredible HULCAn illustrious career of achievement and health-care advocacy has won orthopedic surgeon Dr. Robert McMurtry of St. Joseph’s Health Care, London the 2009 James H. Graham Award from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
A specialist in upper extremity, wrist and hand surgery at the Hand and Upper Limb Centre (HULC) at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Dr. McMurtry has influenced health-care delivery provincially and across the country.
The award honours a person whose achieve-ments reflect the aims of the Royal College. “Dr. McMurtry is an extremely valued member of the HULC team and we’re all very proud of his accomplishments,” says HULC director Dr. Jim Roth.
❋ remember when ... On July 7, 1989, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother opened Western Counties Wing (WCW) at Parkwood Hospital where veterans receive long term and specialized care. Veterans felt a close connection to the Queen Mother through her high visibility during World
War II, and her 1989 visit left a lasting legacy in the history of veterans care at Parkwood.
Today, up to 296 men and women who served in World War II and Korea are cared for in a home-like setting overlooking beautiful grounds. An interdisciplinary team provides a range of services to meet the needs and enhance the qual-ity of life of these veterans.
❋ celebrating excellenceSt. Joseph’s Health Care, London congratulates the recipients and nomi-nees of the 2009 Sisters of St. Joseph Awards for Excellence. The awards recognize individuals or teams across the organi- zation who demonstrate the same remarkable attributes of the Sisters: excellence, positive attitude, reliability, honesty, efficiency, creativ-ity, respect, caring, compassion, empathy and appreciation for the work of others.
This year’s award recipients are:
• Marg Wilson, food services technician at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care
• Karen Kramer, registered practical nurse, specialized geriatrics, Parkwood Hospital
• Nick Barden, registered nurse, ACT 3, Regional Mental Health Care London
• Amado Espiritu, rehabilitation therapist, acquired brain injury, Parkwood Hospital
❋ performance mattersSt. Joseph’s has added to its website infor- mation on surgical site infection and hand hygiene compliance among health-care workers. Public reporting inspires improved performance, enhances patient safety and strengthens confidence in Ontario’s hospitals. For more, visit www.sjhc.london.on.ca and click “How We Perform.”
Individual achievements and a sense of history shine at St. Joseph’s
A Tradition of Excellence
St. Joseph’s notebook
Dr. Robert McMurtry
The Queen Mother visits with veterans at Parkwood Hospital during her 1989 visit.
The 2009 winners of the Sisters of St. Joseph Awards for Excellence are Nick Barden, left, Amado Espiritu, Karen Kramer and Marg Wilson.
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 9 1
FdVVFA0986_01_Notebook.indd 1 6/16/09 2:50:52 PM
WWhile some bemoan the rapid pace of change in mod-ern society, in no other fi eld has change manifested itself so positively as it has in medicine. It wasn’t long ago, for example, that people who suffered a spinal cord injury did not survive such a trauma, or those with cancer could not even hope for recovery. Improvements in treatment are almost constantly being developed, creating more opportunity, and hope, than ever before.
This issue of Vim & Vigour highlights a number of medical areas where the pace of progress has changed lives and offered new optimism for those chal-lenged by devastating injury, debilitating mental illness or life-changing chronic disease.
Sheryl Crow’s story of her fi ght with breast cancer is one such example. Access to better diagnostic imaging technologies and ever-evolving treatments now make it possible to survive many forms of cancer, including breast cancer. The new magnetic resonance imaging machine (MRI) at St. Joseph’s Hospital is one tool allowing us to battle breast cancer as never before. Made possible through private community donations and ongoing fundraising by St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation, this new technology is equipped with specialized breast imaging capability accessible for the fi rst time in our community.
Chronic disease management is a signifi cant part of our work at St. Joseph’s. Advances in the treatment of diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, asthma, dementia and many other long-lasting illnesses have created more opportu-nities for individuals to live longer, healthier lives. Our work at St. Joseph’s includes a focus on preventing chronic disease and an emphasis on healthy aging—what each of us can do to safeguard against illness that can impact so many aspects of daily living.
Yet even in our current, high-tech medical environment, hope remains a natural part of the health-care experience. Today there’s greater reason to hope than ever because of exciting developments made possible through medi-cal research and state-of-the-art equipment.
Thanks to your outstanding support of the work we do, we can offer that hope to others. As always, we are grateful for your generosity and commitment to St. Joseph’s.
Medical advancements mean hope for so many
A Bright Future
connecting with our community
Vim & Vigour,TM Fall 2009, Volume 25, Number 3, is published quarterly by McMurry, McMurry Campus Center, 1-888-626-8779. Vim & VigourTM is published for the purpose of disseminating health-related information for the well-being of the general public and its subscribers. The information contained in Vim & VigourTM is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Please consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment and/or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.
268 Grosvenor StreetLondon, ON N6A 4V2519-646-6085www.sjhcfoundation.org
If you prefer not to receive Vim & Vigour TM from St. Joseph’s Health
Care Foundation, please call 519-646-6085.
ST. JOSEPH’SHEALTH CARE FOUNDATION
2009-2010 Board of DirectorsJeff Macoun, Chair Peter McMahonMichelle Campbell, President Jim MignaultSharon Doubt Marcello NapolSamira El-Hindi Cliff NordalFaisal Joseph Joseph O’NeillPaul Kiteley Dr. Hassan RazviBrenda Lewis Rick SpencerFrank Longo Dr. Donald TavesJeff Malpass Tania TestaRon Martindale Jr. Patrick Tremblay
ST. JOSEPH’S HEALTH CARE, LONDON
2009-2010 Board of DirectorsGerald Killan, Chair Dr. Rob McFaddenPaul Brisson Rev. William McGrattanKimberley Chesney Margaret McLaughlinJacquie Davison Susan MuszakDr. Vikas Duggal Cliff Nordal, PresidentDr. Adam Dukelow Scott PlayerMarcella Grail Graham PorterDoug Hamilton David Van TrigtDr. Carol Herbert Peter WhatmorePaul Kiteley Robert Wood Gaétan Labbé
Contributing WritersMelissa Beilhartz, Betty Dann, Laura Dockstader, Anne Kay, Marek
Kubow, Jennifer Parraga, Dahlia Reich, Renée Sweeney
Editors in ChiefKathy Burrill and Michelle Campbell
EditorDahlia Reich
ProductionMcMurry
Publications Mail Agreement #40929046. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: 268 Grosvenor St., London, ON N6A 4V2.
Cliff NordalPresident & CEOSt. Joseph’s Health Care, London
Michelle CampbellPresident & CEO St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 92
FdVVFA0986_02_Connecting.indd 2 6/16/09 2:52:24 PM
fall❋
contents
special
7 nurturing the spirit The St. Joseph’s
breast assessment program provides wholistic care, including spiritual support.
features
22on the cover Musician Sheryl Crow
beat breast cancer and emerged with a new attitude on health and life. Read about her personal journey and her message on early detection.
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 9 3COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT ASCROFT/CPI
4 the essence of being human A sold-out London audience hears the inspiring words of Desmond Tutu.
6 care at the click of a mouse Rheumatology patients at St. Joseph’s now have access to an innovative online service.
10 take five Better health is just five minutes away with these easy-to-implement tips.
16 root causes Give the gift of wellness to your kids, grandkids and future generations by creating a medical family tree.
18 men: don’t duck the doc A guide to screenings and early diagnosis to make sure you’re in top form.
30 eat to beat cholesterol Stock up on these foods to help keep your numbers in check.
32 bouncing back from boomeritis Avoid injury and maintain an active lifestyle with this boomer-tailored fitness advice.
35 compassionate company Trojan Technologies is committed to environmental health in London and around the world.
36 diabetes decoded Diabetes myths abound—find out what’s fact and fiction from a writer who has the condition.
40 view masters Discover the wonders of medical imaging tests and what they mean for your care.
46 small change, big results Learn how charities can benefit from the most modest of donations.
49 breaking down barriers Mental health was the focus of Roméo A. Dallaire’s talk at the Breakfast of Champions.
50 emerging from the dark The story of one patient’s road from mental ill-ness to recovery and independence.
52 philanthropy in tough times Giving back is a boost not just for the community, but also to your own happiness.
53 centre stage The Urgent Care Centre at St. Joseph’s has moved to a new state-of the-art space.
54 a fitting tribute St. Joseph’s Annual Tribute Dinner will feature portraits of courage, determination and compassion.
departments1 St. Joseph’s
notebook A St. Joseph’s surgeon is honoured and outstanding staff members receive awards.
2 connecting with our community With your support, we continue to stay on top of medical advancements.
8 faces of St. Joseph’s Cliff Nordal looks at the interplay between faith and science.
55 inspired to give The Lions Club is dedicated to helping the blind and visually impaired.
56 giving with impact Danone makes history with a $7-million donation to support research at St. Joseph’s.
FdVVFA0986_03_TOC.indd 3 6/16/09 2:53:16 PM
Archbishop Desmond Tutu moved and inspired a sold-out crowd in London with his compelling message of hope, compassion and how we are each our “Brother’s Keeper.”
The world-renowned human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize recipient was the keynote speaker at the May 22 Signature Speaker Series hosted by St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation. In an extraordinary event for London, Tutu shared his wisdom and the principles that guide his life, that of “Ubuntu,” described as the essence of being human. We cannot be human in isola-tion, believes the world figure. We can only be human in relationships.
“We were honoured to host the Archbishop,” says foundation president and CEO Michelle Campbell. “His message is so appropriate to the mission of care and compassion that is St. Joseph’s.”
guests from far and wideCBC News: Morning anchor Heather Hiscox was emcee for the event, which attracted guests from across Canada and Europe. The foundation also involved young people in Tutu’s visit. Four students with the Thames Valley District School Board and the London District Catholic School Board dedicated to improving the lives of others won tickets to the dinner and their schools were given seats to watch a remote live feed of Tutu’s speech in the London Convention Centre.
Tutu became a household name with his public crusade against apartheid in South Africa. In recent years, he has turned his focus to raising awareness about the plight of those
living with HIV/AIDS. His visit to London was particularly meaningful given St. Joseph’s leading role in HIV care and probiotic research that support those living with the disease at home and in Africa.
Held every two years, the Signature Speaker Series spotlights St. Joseph’s new and evolving role within the international health care com-munity and raises critical philanthropic funds for the organization. Proceeds from the event benefit The Spirit of St. Joseph’s Health Care Fund for the most urgent care, teaching and research needs across St. Joseph’s.
Photos on opposite page
1. Members of a 100-member choir greet guests as they enter the ballroom.
2. George Zubick welcomes Archbishop Tutu. 3. Ian Campbell of iCONECT, sponsor for the event, along
with his wife, Lynn, and children, Jordan and Nicole, with Archbishop Tutu.
4. The Archbishop enjoys a quiet moment before addressing the audience.
5. Archbishop Desmond Tutu captivates guests at the Signature Speaker Series.
6. Archbishop Tutu with Marvin DeVries and Tania Testa of Trojan Technologies, grand reception sponsor.
7. Brenda Done, a nurse with St. Joseph’s infectious diseases care program, participates in a healing ritual at St. Joseph’s Chapel.
8. Patrick Tremblay of RBC, private reception sponsor and foundation board member, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
9. Sister Joan Atkinson, Sisters of St. Joseph, presents the Archbishop with a gift during his visit to St. Joseph’s Chapel.
10. The Archbishop chats with Dr. David Hill, director of Lawson Health Research Institute, and his daughter, Jessica.
11. Diane Beattie and David Mosher of Hewlett Packard, event sponsor, greet Archbishop Tutu.
By Jennifer Parraga
London hears
the inspiring
words of
international
human rights
advocate
Desmond
Tutu
essenceof being human
the
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 94
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heartfelt thanksSt. Joseph’s Health
Care Foundation is
grateful to the cor-
porate sponsors of
the 2009 Signature
Speaker Series for
their generosity,
vision and belief
in the mission of
St. Joseph’s. “The
corporate commu-
nity has once again
risen to the chal-
lenge,” says Jeff
Macoun, foundation
board chair. “Through
their leadership and
commitment, we can
continue to support
the role of St. Joseph’s
as an international
leader in care, teach-
ing, discovery and
innovation.”
1 2
3 4 5
6
7 8
9 10 11
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Keeping tabs on patients just got a whole lot eas-ier for rheumatology psychologist Dr. Marilyn Hill. In fact, it’s as simple as a click of the mouse.
The Beryl and Richard Ivey Rheumatology Day Program (RDP) at St. Joseph’s Health Care, London recently launched a chat room where caregivers and RDP patients can virtually “talk” to each other about issues related to their chronic illness. Patients can chat with patients or with the experts about the availability of community resources or the challenges of implementing newly learned disease management skills.
The chat room was launched in 2008 and the numbers of patients signing on is increasing steadily, says Dr. Hill. It’s just one component of an overall program called RDP On-Line devel-oped to promote long-term disease management, address potential relapse triggers, and provide novel, cost-effective follow-up treatment.
at-home answersOther interactive, online options include a fre-quently asked questions page, a problem-solving workshop, and an “ask a pro” section where patients can post anonymous questions to RDP staff in psychology, social work, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and pharmacy. Patients usually receive an answer to their questions or issues within a few days.
About 35 per cent of RDP patients are cur-rently accessing the Web-based services without booking an appointment or leaving their home.
“Managing a chronic illness like rheumatoid arthritis, fi bromyalgia or lupus requires disease education, coping skills and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Hill. “It’s a lifelong process, and long-term treatment follow-up facilitates success. However, distance, mobility issues and staffi ng are all bar-riers to regular outpatient appointments.”
With the innovative online service, patients can get answers to their questions, participate in problem-solving as a means to improve coping, and chat with others who share their diagnosis, all in the time it takes to click a mouse.
By Betty Dann
A new online program is empowering rheumatology patients
at the click of a mousecare
Dr. Marilyn Hill
More than 4.4 million Canadians are living
with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. Nearly two
million live in Ontario.
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 96
quite an impactA new regional rheumatology strategy is cur-
rently being developed at St. Joseph’s Health
Care, London thanks to a bequest of $250,000
made by Mrs. Beryl Ivey. Throughout her life,
Mrs. Ivey generously donated significant sup-
port to the rheumatology centre to establish
the Beryl and Richard Ivey Day Programs.
The new strategy will directly impact patient
care as it increases access to services by
enhancing training of nurse practitioners in
the region, broadcasts patient
education sessions to
telemedicine sites across
Southwestern Ontario,
and creates a fund for
patients with financial chal-
lenges from across the region so
they can attend the Beryl and
Richard Ivey Rheumatology Day
Program sessions.
Mrs. Ivey passed
away in December
2007, but her spirit
and generosity
live on.
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By Dahlia Reich
The St. Joseph’s breast
assessment program takes a
wholistic approach to care
nurturing
spiritthe
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 9 7
was the beginning of a journey during which Ferriss would discover strengths she never knew she had and meaning in the turmoil of breast cancer.
“Ralph helped me see that I have control of this situation, challenged me to see the positives and led me to understand what was really important—living each day, spending time with people you love and who love you.”
A diagnosis of cancer can be “so incredibly overwhelming for the human spirit that spiritual care becomes not only helpful but essential,” explains Hale. “The biggest obstacle is the mis-perception that spiritual care is about religion when it’s actually about emotional and spiritual support. We are willing to go to the dark places with people and help them while they transition through pain, despair and hope.”
an essential part of healing After her diagnosis, Ferriss began chemotherapy to shrink the tumour before undergoing surgery. She also met weekly with Hale. On the day of her surgery, he was there too, for Ferriss as well as her family. “I would go to my sessions with Ralph on good days and bad and every time I left, I felt spiritually uplifted and optimistic.”
Today, the mother of two is cancer-free. Emo-tionally and spiritually, the news is also good. “For me, spiritual care has been as essential as the medical treatment I’ve received. Even if the cancer comes back, I’ll deal with it. I feel I can beat it. Ralph has helped me see that.”
Facing breast cancer, Margie Ferriss found strength in the spiritual guidance of St. Joseph’s chaplain Ralph Hale.
Margie Ferriss could actually see the lump in her breast. It started out as a small cyst her doc-tor watched closely for nearly a year, but in the last fi ve weeks it had grown from the size of an olive to that of a tangerine. The harmless cyst was now the London mom’s worst nightmare.
“What else grows like that but cancer? I couldn’t believe this was happening to me.”
Referred to St. Joseph’s Hospital for a biopsy in May 2008, Margie was fi lled with dread, imagining the worst and wondering how she would cope. She would fi nd the answers with the help of Ralph Hale, a chaplain with spiri-tual care at St. Joseph’s and a member of the support team of the breast assessment program.
a wholistic approachThe program brings together caregivers to pro-vide emotional, practical and spiritual support; advocacy and education; diagnostic and pathol-ogy services; surgery; and community resources in an integrated approach to meet women’s needs from the time of an abnormal screening or clinical fi nding to diagnosis and treatment.
“Our aim is to provide wholistic care and that means nurturing the physical as well as spiri-tual and emotional being,” explains coordinator Gillian Milcz. “For many women, a diagnosis or even the threat of breast cancer brings a host of issues to the surface and spiritual care can be invaluable.”
When a terrifi ed Ferriss arrived for her biopsy, she was offered the support of spiritual care. It
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AAs a child growing up in a rural farm area in Northern Manitoba, it was through a small, home-built telescope that I began to discover the wonders of the universe. And I have maintained interest in astronomy ever since. The United Nations has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy, marking the 400th anniver-sary of Galileo’s use of the telescope. People are encouraged to have a “Galileo Moment,” inspir-
ing a renewed interest in our universe.
In the early part of the 17th century, Galileo’s quest to validate the theories of Father Nicolaus Copernicus, namely that the earth revolves around the sun, came into confl ict with some in the Catholic Church. Galileo felt the Church’s interpretation of the Bible should be altered because observational science was proving it
wrong. At the same time, the Church felt it nec-essary to defend the views, declaring alternative ideas to be heresy, eventually placing Galileo under house arrest.
new knowledge, deeper understandingI believe the confl ict between Galileo and the Church, science and religion, was an important turning point in history. In time, it led to a deeper understanding that the human quest for truth
and knowledge lies within the relationship between science and faith, and that there is an ethical dimension in this relationship. This relationship is also at the heart of being a health-care organization founded in faith and compassion for the suffering of others, while seeking our best knowledge and capacity to heal and provide comfort.
Now more than ever, Catholic and other faith-based organizations must examine their missions in today’s environment and continue to offer a place where the questions of science bring about new knowledge, and the questions of theology lead to deeper understanding. St. Joseph’s is just that community—a commu-nity of moral, ethical and scientifi c discernment; a place of hope, renewal and excellence.
finding balanceIn a world where human health is sometimes marginalized as a type of case, a waiting list or the cost of care, all people of goodwill are seeking the deeper dimensions of health, includ-ing the spiritual. We remain steadfast in our mission to serve all those who come to us in need, to meet and exceed today’s standards of performance, to make new discoveries and advance knowledge, and to uphold the values on which we were founded.
St. Joseph’s is a place where scientists, theo-logians, ethicists and care providers strive to bring science and faith together in harmony. This is not always easy, and sometimes we are confronted by others who have differing opin-ions or perspectives. We accept these challenges and we learn from them. These, too, are our “Galileo Moments.”
Lessons for today from a 17th-century clash between theologians and a heretical astronomer
Science, Faith and ‘Galileo Moments’
faces of St. Joseph’s B y C l i f f N o r d a l
Cliff Nordal, president and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health Care, London
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 98
FdVVFA0986_08_Faces.indd 8 6/16/09 3:13:53 PM
He personally witnessed the atrocities of geno-cide. At the end of his ordeal, a very different man returned to Canada.
Outspoken, honest, wise and reflective, Lieutenant-General the Honourable Roméo A. Dallaire, Force Commander of the United Nations Assistance Mission to Rwanda in 1994, shared his struggle with crippling post-traumatic stress disorder by speaking at the third annual Breakfast of Champions on June 19.
The focus of this year’s breakfast, jointly pre-sented by St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation and the Canadian Mental Health Association, London Middlesex, was on workplace stress and its impact on the individual and family. The
problem, which grips nearly 50 per cent of the Canadian workforce, is estimated to cost the Canadian economy about $30 million a year. And the numbers of those suffering are steadily increasing.
“Through the Breakfast of Champions, we are raising awareness about critical issues relating to mental illness and working to elimi-nate the stigma that creates barriers for people seeking assistance,” says Michelle Campbell, foundation president and CEO. Proceeds from the event support community-based projects aligned with the mission of both St. Joseph’s Health Care, London and the Canadian Mental Health Association.
By Jennifer Parraga
The Breakfast of Champions raises awareness of mental illness
breaking down barriers
thank you to sponsorsSt. Joseph’s extends
its appreciation to
the many sponsors of
Breakfast of Champions
who have made mental
health a priority: CAW;
General Dynamics;
Lilly; Clintar Landscape
Management;
Genpharm; Homewood
Employee Health;
Lamplighter Inns
(London) Limited;
London Hospital Linen
Service; Longo Food
Service Equipment Inc.;
OPSEU; and Rogers
Communications.
A special thank
you goes to an anony-
mous sponsor who
helped make the
breakfast possible.
Lieutenant-General (retired) Roméo A. Dallaire shares his compelling presentation to more than 800 guests at the Breakfast of Champions event.
Sheila Wilson (left) and event sponsor Brenda Lewis of Homewood Employee Health along with London Police Chief Murray Faulkner (left) and Deputy Chief Ian Peer.
Lead sponsor Tim Carrie (centre), CAW Local 27, and presenting sponsor Major General (retired) Tom De Faye (right) of General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada meet with Roméo Dallaire before breakfast.
Roméo Dallaire meets with veteran Bill Findley (left), Elaine Gibson, St. Joseph’s vice president, and Cliff Nordal, St. Joseph’s president and CEO, during a tour of Parkwood Hospital’s operational stressinjuries clinic.
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 9 49
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By Laura Dockstader
Barb Peters, left, credits her care team, including vocational counsellor Donna McManus, with helping her along the path to recovery from mental illness.
Barb Peters was only 24 when first hospital- ized at St. Joseph’s Regional Mental Health Care London (RMHC) in 1993. Extremely ill, she recalls little of that time. But she does remember being so frightened she wouldn’t engage with other patients or staff, simply standing against the wall on her ward for weeks without speaking.
After a series of possible diagnoses, doctors finally determined that Peters was suffering from severe bipolar disorder. She remained in hospital for five years.
Of all the challenges during her hospitaliza-tion, the greatest hardship, says Peters, was missing out on her youngest brother’s life. He was only four years old when she came to the hospital and nine when she left. “You never get that time back,” she says.
gaining independencePeters eventually “came out of her shell” and began interacting with others. It took the efforts of a team of professionals—nurse, doctor, psy-chologist and art therapist—to help Peters onto the path to recovery. She was discharged in 1998 and moved to one of RMHC’s Homes for Special Care with a goal of eventually living independently in her own home. In 2001, Peters reached that goal, moving into her own apartment where she lives alone, within walking distance of her family.
Having worked in a local restaurant for the past four years, Peters credits the support of
A story of mental illness,
rehabilitation and recovery
emergingfrom the dark
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 950
FdVVFA0986_50-1_MentalHlth.indd 50 6/16/09 3:16:21 PM
RMHC’s Andrews Resource Centre vocational program for helping her reach the point where she could gain employment in the community. For 11 years, Peters worked at the centre, where she received the guidance of vocational coun- sellor Donna McManus. “She knew I was ready and that it was time for me to move on. She helped to give me the push out of my comfort zone that I needed.”
“Vocational counseling gives hope, builds confidence and bolsters self-esteem,” explains McManus. “The focus is not on the disability but on the unique abilities and assets that a client possesses as an individual.”
Peters has served on the RMHC patients’ council for 12 years as an inpatient and outpa-tient representative, holding several executive positions along the way. In 2008, she became the chair and hopes to lead the council in taking on several new initiatives, including creating a more welcoming orientation process for newly admitted patients. “We need to have this estab-lished as a standard practice, certainly before we move to new facilities.”
As a council member, Peters is pleased to be involved in planning for RMHC’s new mental health facilities, which are being designed with a rehabilitation focus.
hope and recoveryShe has now transitioned to the care of her family physician in the community. While vigi-lant in watching for any signs of her illness, she’s confident she can cope if the symptoms return. “I know now what I would need to do. I wouldn’t want to start over, but now I know I could do it if I had to.”
These days, Peters is enjoying day-to-day life—being an aunt, walking the family dog at the park, and being a part of her loved ones’ lives, no longer missing out on important time with them.
A sense of hope is very important for those suffering with mental illness, she says. Even during the dark days, Peters believed she could recover and was determined to do so. “I knew I would get there eventually. It was a long journey to get to where I am today, but I just had to keep moving forward.”
on the horizonCurrently, St. Joseph’s is developing a new recovery-based approach to
care, one that is reflective of the mission and values of St. Joseph’s Health
Care, London.
“The journey we are embarking on requires a fundamental shift in
thinking for our staff as well as the patients and families we serve,” says
Dr. Sandra Fisman, chief/chair of psychiatry. “The whole notion of a recov-
ery focused approach, along with the principles of psychiatric rehabilitation,
is evidence based, humanistic and in keeping with the mission and values
of St. Joseph’s. To support this shift, we will need to transform the culture
and educate all of our staff in their knowledge and approach to care.”
A key component of the change involves construction of two new
mental health care facilities, one in London and one in St. Thomas. These
facilities will provide new healing environments that are as supportive,
nurturing and comforting as the care delivery itself.
getting ‘smart’A touch of home away from
home will be possible for
mental health patients at
Regional Mental Health Care
St. Thomas with an exciting
pilot project under way in the
psychosis program.
Staff are creating a simulated
apartment in the hospital for
patients coping with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and
preparing to return to the community.
Each patient will live in the homey apartment on his or her own for
up to one month. During this time, the care team provides electronic
cuing and monitoring by means of “smart” technology. The patient also
receives care in person as needed.
The technology consists of a computer station accessible by the
patient that is equipped with camera and speakers and can accommodate
medical monitoring equipment such as a blood pressure machine. The
station is linked to a similar clinician station at a remote location. The
patient and care team are able to connect at any time and monitor all
aspects of the patient’s progress using this technology.
Smart technology, the patient station
emerging
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 9 51
FdVVFA0986_50-1_MentalHlth.indd 51 6/16/09 3:16:34 PM
By Michelle Campbell
times Michelle Campbell is president and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation and vice president of fund development at St. Joseph’s Health Care, London. A leader in the field of philanthropy and health care fund development, Campbell is the author of many articles on the subject and frequently speaks at conferences nationally and internationally.
a good causeIf you would like St. Joseph’s Health Care, London to benefit from your charitable giv-ing , you can fill out the card inserted in this
magazine, or call us at 519-646-6085. Online donations can be made at www.sjhcfoundation.org.
magazine, or call us at
go
Helping makes us happy,
so be selfish—give to others
tough
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 952
At no other time in recent memory have Canadians faced such a tough economic envi-ronment. And at no other time has there been more community need. Many charities and not-for-profi t organizations are on the frontline when it comes to providing critical support to Canadians in need.
Despite the economic woes reported daily in the media, there’s evidence that giving continues to be a personal priority for many. A fall 2008 survey conducted by Ipsos Reid reported that 82 per cent of Canadians surveyed said they would continue to maintain their charitable giv-ing during the economic downturn, and even consider increasing it, despite the challenge to their own economic circumstance. The reason given by many was that there are a growing num-ber of people in need. Quite simply, the economic downturn is creating a greater desire to give.
small acts make a differenceAccording to industry sources, the charitable sector has traditionally weathered economic recessions better than other sectors of the econ-
omy, and there’s reason to be optimistic this charitable giving can be sustained.
At the same time, however, giving during a recession is likely to shift to some sectors over others. And for some charities, even a small decrease
in support can spell disaster. Despite the important work they do, these
organizations may simply disappear.In these times, charities need more help
than ever because they’re helping more
people than ever. It may be cliché to say “every bit helps,” but it’s also very true. In our own case at St. Joseph’s Health Care, London, every small act of kindness, whether it’s volunteering to read to a patient or making a donation of any size for the purchase of medical equipment, makes a real difference to someone’s life.
speaking to the heartBoth giving and volunteering have as many benefi ts for the giver as they do for the receiver. The feeling of goodwill that comes from making a charitable gift to provide care and comfort in some small way speaks to the heart of what makes us human and connects us as individu-als. The personal satisfaction derived from volunteering has actually been medically docu-mented as a physiological reaction arising from endorphins created through deep feelings of achievement, contentment and joy. Helping others actually makes us happy.
So in these challenging times, when you need more inspiration and happiness in your life, be selfi sh—reach out to others. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll receive in return.
phila
nthr
opy
in
FdVVFA0986_52_Recession.indd 52 6/16/09 3:17:36 PM
Days before a patient was registered, before a waiting room chair was occupied and the first patient’s name was called by the triage nurse, there was touring, singing, praying and cel-ebration in the waiting room of the new Urgent Care Centre (UCC) at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
In early spring, St. Joseph’s officially opened the new centre in a celebration with staff, partners, politicians and the community. It’s something Karen Dyer has been anticipating for 28 years–ever since she first started at St. Joseph’s. As director of primary and urgent care, Dyer has travelled the country visiting other urgent care centres and used her experience to help mold St. Joseph’s four-year-old UCC into one of the most successful in the province.
“The brand new space is a vision I’ve had since the idea of an urgent care centre at St. Joseph’s was first conceived,” says Dyer.
a demonstrated needUntil the move, the UCC operated out of the former emergency department at St. Joseph’s in less-than-ideal conditions. Now with state-of-the-art space designed specifically for urgent care, the centre’s success will only grow. The new space features increased privacy at triage, enhanced wheelchair accessibility, private exam rooms replicated to resemble a family doctor’s office, and specialized rooms for casts, sutures and eye care.
“In 2005, the first year the UCC opened, we exceeded our expected volume of patient visits and every year since then we have continued to grow,” says Peter Tanaka, site chief for urgent
donations support cutting-edge equipmentThe new Urgent Care Centre opened its doors with brand new equip-
ment supporting frontline care thanks to funding from St. Joseph’s
Health Care Foundation. More than $90,000 in donations was directed
to support the purchase of an eye examination lane, surgical lights and
stretchers. In total, the foundation has granted more than $400,000
for renovations and equipment for the Urgent Care Centre.
Urgent Care Centre staff had the honour of cutting the ribbon during the official opening of the new centre. From left, Sara Marlow, Karen McGaw, Karen Dyer, Joanne Barr, St. Joseph’s President and CEO Cliff Nordal, and Dr. Don Gutoski.
centre stagecare. “The people of London and the region have clearly demonstrated the need for this type of facility. As pressures on our health care system continue to increase, the Urgent Care Centre provides an essential service to those patients who require immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening problems.”
the second phaseThe UCC is one of several new spaces recently completed as part a redevelopment project that will see the renovation of about 81,175 square feet of St. Joseph’s Hospital for acute/ambulatory care in the first phase of construction. The second phase, which has already begun, will involve an additional 106,000 square feet of renovations, to be completed in 2011.
The redevelopment of the hospital, says President and CEO Cliff Nordal, “gives our staff a new patient-centred environment in which to care for and support our patients and their families.”
The Urgent
Care Centre’s
move to a
new state-of-
the-art space
is something
to celebrate
By Marek Kubow
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 9 53
FdVVFA0986_53_UrgentCare.indd 53 6/16/09 3:20:34 PM
join usThe St. Joseph’s
Annual Tribute Dinner
presents “Portraits of
Personal Triumph” on
Sept. 23 at the London
Convention Centre.
Proceeds from the
event will be directed
to urgent and emerg-
ing patient care needs
across St. Joseph’s
through The Spirit of
St. Joseph’s Health
Care Fund.
Tickets are $150
per person; $1,500
for tables of 10. To
purchase tickets,
visit www.sjhc
foundation.org or
contact Alyson Robb
at the foundation
by phone or e-mail:
519-646-6085,
alyson.robb@sjhc.
london.on.ca.
vim & vigour · fa l l 2 0 0 954
Saluting personal excellence and recognizing individuals for being the best they can be—that is the essence of the St. Joseph’s Annual
Tribute Dinner. It’s about people whose extraordinary approach to life inspires us all.
Past honorees have included London’s Spriet Family, Bill Brady, and in 2008, Erin and David Nash. These are individu-als who, for many years, have dedicated themselves to the continued excellence in care, teaching and research at St. Joseph’s Health Care, London and to the health and well-being of our community.
The Annual Tribute Dinner was inspired by the courageous patients of St. Joseph’s and the committed, skilled professionals who care for them. For this year’s dinner, St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation is proud to present “Portraits of Personal Triumph,” a tribute to the extra-ordinary lives of those in our care and to the St. Joseph’s professionals who care for them.
“At St. Joseph’s, you don’t have to look far to be inspired by the extra-ordinary,” says Michelle Campbell, foundation presi-dent and CEO. “Whether it’s a patient who has overcome all odds or a caregiver who gives endlessly to patients and their families, we see it every day.”
The St. Joseph’s Annual Tribute Dinner
presents “Portraits of Personal Triumph”
a fitting
tribute
The evening of inspiration will feature the music of John Lennon and Paul McCartney in Jim Witter’s musical performance of “The Long and Winding Road.” “Today, more than ever, we are inspired by storytellers who, through their words and music, bring us hope and joy,” says Wayne Dunn, chair of the Tribute Dinner. “I can’t think of a better musical presentation to highlight this wonderful event.”
By Jennifer Parraga
FdVVFA0986_54_Gifts2.indd 54 6/16/09 3:22:24 PM
wWhen he was just two weeks old, Luc had his first operation to save his sight. Since then, he has undergone six surgeries, and he’s only four years old. Diagnosed with glaucoma soon after birth, the youngster will likely receive care at the Ivey Eye Institute of St. Joseph’s Health Care, London for the rest of his life.
Thanks to the generous support of many peo-ple in the London area, Luc and thousands of patients cared for each year at the institute will continue to have access to the finest technology, frontline equipment and care programs.
❋ proud supporterThe Lions Club of Central London is one such generous donor. The service club has pledged a gift of $50,000, which will support equip-ment that will completely outfit an examination room in the institute’s new space, now under construction at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
The Lions Club and other generous donors are helping St. Joseph’s serve the blind and visually impaired
Crusading Against Darkness
B y J e n n i f e r P a r r a g a inspired to give
Announcing a $50,000 gift to St. Joseph’s Ivey Eye Institute are, from left, Brian Nicholds, Jim Balicsak, Ed Busko, Sandy Leadlay, Dr. Tom Sheidow and Stu Rayner.
Through community-focused events throughout the year, the Lions raise funds to support various causes related to the visually impaired. “We take our role as Knights of the Blind very seriously,” says Lion Jim Balicsak. “We have met the doctors at the Ivey Eye Institute and have seen the important work they do. We want to support them every step of the way. We are very proud to be a part of a project that is improving the health of the citizens in this community.”
❋ opening next yearThe Lions’ gift is a significant contribution to a $1 million goal of St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation to support state-of-the-art tech-nology in the new institute. Expected to open in early 2010, the new space will be specially designed for a wide range of eye care and will include 53 examination rooms, a diag-
nostic centre, procedure rooms and a patient educa-tion centre.
Renown for its care, teaching and research, the Ivey Eye Institute is the main referral centre for eye disease in Western Ontario, serv-ing patients of all ages, including children.
For more information on the funding priorities of the institute, please con- tact St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation at 519-646-6085. Online donations can also be made at www.sjhcfoundation.org.
A long history of serviceIn 1925, deaf-blind
activist and author
Helen Keller challenged
Lions Clubs to become
“knights of the blind
in the crusade against
darkness” during the
association’s interna-
tional convention. Today,
Lions Clubs around the
world are recognized for
their service to the blind
and visually impaired,
and the London Central
Lions Club actively fund-
raises for many com-
munity projects related
to the cause. Proceeds
from the London club’s
events will be directed
to the Ivey Eye Institute
of St. Joseph’s Health
Care, London.
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 9 55
FdVVFA0986_55_Inspired.indd 55 6/16/09 3:24:40 PM
FFor close to a century, Danone Group and its founding companies have been dedicated to bringing health through food to as many people as possible. This mission is backed by new discovery through science and research, and a strong social commitment to people around the globe.
On May 22, Danone took a major step in demonstrating this commitment by announcing a research investment of $7 million in support of the Lawson Health Research Institute at St. Joseph’s Health Care, London. It’s the largest single donation ever made to St. Joseph’s.
“At Danone, we believe that economic and social progress go hand in hand. We strive to help people grow, live better and get more out of life by providing them with better food, a wider variety of flavours and more healthful pleasures,” says Bernard Hours, co-chief oper-ating officer of Danone. “This investment will support groundbreaking research to help people around the world achieve health and a greater quality of life.”
local to global contributionsThe announcement was made to more than 500 guests at the Signature Speaker Series event hosted by St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation. Danone representatives from Paris, France, New York and Montreal were in attendance to share the news.
The support will establish a new research Chair in Human Microbiology and Probiotics. It will create and sustain a dynamic working team that will build upon, advance and main-tain national and international excellence in probiotic research, delivered primarily in the form of functional foods and dietary supple-ments. In keeping with the legacy of Dr. Daniel Carasso, originating founder of Danone, the
research chair’s contributions will have an impact on the health and well-being of people locally, nationally and internationally.
making historyThe first scientist awarded the chair is Dr. Gregor Reid, an internationally renowned expert in pro-biotics. “This support provides Danone, Lawson Health Research Institute and St. Joseph’s with an opportunity to make a substantial impact on the lives of people around the world,” says Dr. Reid. “By taking innovative ideas, develop-ing product formulations and then proving that they enhance human health—this is really a remarkable opportunity.”
“This is the most significant, singular private research investment ever received by St. Joseph’s,” says Michelle Campbell, foundation president and CEO. “Danone has made history at St. Joseph’s and in London, Ontario. We are very grateful for their support.”
With the goal of enhancing health through food, Danone invests $7 million in research at St. Joseph’s
A Sound Investment
giving with impact B y J e n n i f e r P a r r a g a
Bernard Hours, co-chief operating officer of Danone, with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, keynote speaker at the Signature Speaker Series event.
Bernard Hours, co-chief operating officer of Danone, announces his company’s $7-million investment in research at St. Joseph’s and Lawson Health Research Institute.
Dr. David Hill, middle, director, Lawson Health Research Institute, and Dr. Gregor Reid, right, inaugural Chair, Human Microbiology and Probiotics, present Bernard Hours with a special gift in honour of Danone’s landmark investment in research.
vim & vigour • fa l l 2 0 0 956
FdVVFA0986_56_Impact.indd 56 6/16/09 3:25:48 PM
VERSION: 2A DATE: TIME:
COLOUR: DESIGNER:
St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation April 20, 2009 11:45 am
CMYK CM
CLIENT:
DOCKET #:
SIZE:205-174
8.375"w x 10.5"h trim + .125" bleed
JOB DESCRIPTION: PRODUCTION NOTES:
457 King Street, London Ontario, Canada N6B 1S8 Telephone 519 439 8080 Facsimile 519439 8081 www.themarketingdepartment.ca
Signature Speaker Series 2009Archbishop Desmond Tutu Sponsor Thank You Ad
INSIDE BACK COVER for Vim & Vigor MagazineFull Colour, Full Page AdArtwork Due: May 6, 2009
REVISION:
� ank You To Our Sponsors
St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation thanks its corporate partners for their leadership and vision in supporting the 2009 Signature Speaker Series event, “An Evening with Desmond Tutu.”
The St. Joseph’s Signature Speaker Series is a unique event experience. Inspiring, enlightening and intimate – it is an evening that celebrates the interconnection we share as members of the global community.
PRIVATE RECEPTION SPONSOR
DIAMOND SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS
GRAND RECEPTION SPONSOR
NATIONAL MEDIA SPONSOR
E X C E L L E N T H E A L T H C A R E R E Q U I R E S P A R T N E R S H I P A N D C O L L A B O R A T I O N
Through their commitment, we can continue to support St. Joseph’s Health Care, London and its role as an international leader in care, teaching, discovery and innovation.
FdVVFA0986_C3_ThankYouAd.indd 1 6/16/09 3:27:11 PM
St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation 268 Grosvenor StreetLondon, ONN6A 4V2Please return Canadian Addresses to above address
RESERVE YOUR TICKETS NOW!
WEDNESDAY
SEPTEMBER 23
519-646-6085 www.sjhcfoundation.org
Featuring the music of
John Lennon & Paul McCartney
JIM WITTER
LONDONCONVENTION
CENTRE
PER PERSON
$150
2” AREA FOR PRINTING OF MAILING INFO
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS
All proceeds from this year’s event will be directed to urgent and emerging patient and resident care needs across St. Joseph’s through The Spirit of St. Joseph’s Health Care Fund.
VERSION: FinalA DATE: TIME:
COLOUR: DESIGNER:
St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation May 13/06 2:15 pm
CMYK RS
CLIENT:
DOCKET #:
INSERTION DATE:
SIZE:205-177
8.375”w x 10.5”h trim, 7.75”w x 9.875”h live
JOB DESCRIPTION: PRODUCTION NOTES:2009 Vim & Vigour Ad (Back Cover) allows 2” mailing panel at top
REVISION:
D. GRANT & SONSLIMITED
A TRIBUTE TO THE EXTRAORDINARY LIVES OF THOSE IN OUR CARE
AND TO THE ST. JOSEPH’S PROFESSIONALS WHO
CARE FOR THEM.
FdVVFA0986_C4_TributeDinne.indd 1 6/16/09 3:28:12 PM
