St. Joseph's Health Care London

As we near the end of the year, we take a look back at some of the most read and trending stories shared this past year across St. Joseph's Health Care London. From our Behind the Mask series that captured the feelings, sacrifices, triumphs and more of health care workers, volunteers and community members during COVID-19, to Biigajiiskaan, an innovative and collaborative program designed to transform the mental health care experience of Indigenous peoples, and also St. Josep...h's partnership with Western University to establish the William and Lynne Gray Research Chair in Mobility & Activity, you can find these stories and more highlights online: https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca//most-read-and-trending-stor Atlohsa Family Healing Services Western University Faculty of Health Sciences - Western University

Christmas may be over but your gift will make a difference all year round.

This Christmas season, St. Joseph’s spiritual care practitioners and music therapists are offering a virtual service and carols. This is a traditional Christmas service of songs and Christian scripture to inspire viewers to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ. All are invited to join in creating a contemplative pause in your day to watch this video. Blessings of peace and hope, and prayers for joy and love are extended to one and all during this sacred season. Watch the Festival of Lessons and Carols: https://loom.ly/nwbElsw

If you could have a conversation with the COVID-19 virus, or write a letter to it, what would you say? Through journal entries, members of St. Joseph’s Third Age Outreach Program had a lot to say. Participants wrote to COVID, as if they were speaking to a person. While blunt, the words are what many of us across the globe are feeling and the exercise was designed to bring isolated older adults together to talk about how the virus has impacted their lives. The journaling also ...helped to reduce their anxiety, and lay all their emotions out on the table to help empower them - in a world where so many individuals have felt at the mercy of this unprecedented pandemic. Here is just one of those journal entries: https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca//our-s/conversation-covid-19

The socks have arrived! More than 1,000 patients, residents and Veterans in our care will feel extra cosy and warm this Christmas thanks to you.

Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can help lift people’s spirits during uncertain times. Inpatients in Parkwood Institute’s rehabilitation programs recently received handmade art to bring a little extra holiday cheer to those who might be feeling isolated during the holiday season. The art was made by little ones at Parkwood Children’s Centre and showed that you are never too young to spread some much-needed holiday joy. https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca//our-s/tiny-hands-big-hearts

Focused on the needs of others, Spiritual Care volunteer Stefan Nichol wanted to show patients at St. Joseph’s Mental Health Care Program that they are not forgotten: https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca/news-and-me//never-forgotten

If you need a COVID test in London-Middlesex you can learn about where to go for testing also book online by visiting: https://covidtestinglm.ca/

Diabetes Awareness Month helps highlight the importance of regular eye care to avoid vision loss. Prevention is key with a healthy lifestyle but you also need to make sure you schedule an eye exam and get tested for diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy (changes in the retina due to diabetes) is a consequence of diabetes which affects the eye, it can also be accompanied by dry eyes. Learn more about from Dr. Rookaya Mather in her DocTalk about Dry Eye and speak with your doctor abo...ut any concerns related to diabetes or dry eye: https://loom.ly/3NrXYyQ #DocTalk #NDAM #Diabetes Diabetes Canada

Learn more about the symptoms of COVID-19

The lighting of pink lights across our caregiving sites is a reminder to those in hospital that they are not forgotten during the holiday season. Help them glow even brighter with a gift to Season of Celebration.

Because of your gifts to Season of Celebration, the elves have been busy with boxes and bows! More than 1,000 cosy red socks are packed and ready to be delivered to patients, residents and Veterans in our care this Christmas. Thank you!

How do you know if you need a #COVID-19 test? Check this infographic. If you need a test, you can book one online by visiting https://loom.ly/F-aRWZI Family Service Thames Valley Middlesex-London Health Unit

From October 25 to 31, we celebrate and recognize the unique contributions of Respiratory Therapists (RTs) within our organization. RTs provide health care to people at all stages of life who have difficulty breathing due to illness, injury, disease or disability. We are grateful for the many RTs working across St. Joseph’s and the care they provide to patients in complicated respiratory situations. Visit the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapist’s website to learn more ...about their important role within our health care system: https://loom.ly/_SqvvrI #RTWeek2020

It's Canadian Patient Safety Week (Oct. 26 -30)! The theme for 2020 is Virtual Care is new for most of us, asking questions shouldn’t be. Without leaving home, many St. Joseph’s patients are receiving care, education and therapy through various virtual technologies. All are being tapped with excellent results and appreciative feedback. Learn how St. Joseph's is making significant strides to establish virtual care as a sustainable, safe and effective tool for health care t...eams post COVID-19: https://loom.ly/6kIrS4Q #PatientSafetyWeek #ConquerSilence

OAKRIDGE ASSESSMENT CENTRE UPDATE: Oakridge phone lines (519-667-6886) are now answered live. until the next day's appointments are filled. Then the phone lines will no longer accept voicemails. Once phone lines close, please call back the following morning at 8:00 am. Learn more: http://ow.ly/PTGn50BZbRA

St. Joseph's Service Recognition Program is a celebration of the dedication and commitment of our staff, physicians and volunteers. This year more than 700 recipients were recognized for reaching career milestones with St. Joseph’s. Rachel Chandler and Ann Aarts were among the recipients celebrating a 40-year career milestone.... Here are their stories: https://loom.ly/NWjv-Jc

Lori Linton was relieved to find the right kind of treatment for depression at St. Joseph's. She shares her story as our patient spokesperson for the spring 2020 Dream Lottery campaign. Thanks Lori! Dream it, Win it https://loom.ly/0vYtM0w

Thanks for always treating the Veterans who reside in our care like royalty. We are grateful for your support!

It's Canadian Digital Health Week, recognizing how digital health is transforming the delivery of care across the country. The pandemic fast-tracked virtual care at St. Joseph’s without leaving home, many St. Joseph’s patients are receiving care, education and therapy through virtual connections. Next steps are underway to ensure virtual care options are here to stay. At the core of this work are patients and families, who will shape the future of this important health care strategy. Learn how St. Joseph's is making strides to establish virtual care as a sustainable and safe tool for health care teams. https://loom.ly/6kIrS4Q #ThinkDigitalHealth

It was a lifesaving finding for Barbara Moscovich a tiny tumour pinpointed using contrast-enhanced mammography at St. Joseph’s Hospital where women are benefitting from the latest in breast imaging technology. Read Barbara’s story and how she’s advocating for changes in screening for women with dense breasts: https://loom.ly/3C4d7X8 #Breastcancer ... #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #BCAM See more

Due to COVID-19, BRA Day 2020 has been transformed into a nationwide, free virtual event for women considering breast reconstruction. Join the Peter Gilgan Centre for Women's Cancers in partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons. Patients of St. Joseph’s Breast Care Program are encouraged to tune in on Oct. 21, from 7 - 10 pm. Learn more and register: https://loom.ly/sK30hiw #breastreconstruction #breastcancer

Season of Celebration launched with a single question from the care-giving team, How can we make Christmas a little brighter for those in our care, who can’t go home for the holidays? Today, that question is more important than ever before. Patients and residents will not be able to be with loved ones this Christmas due to safety precautions around COVID-19. You can make Christmas more cheerful at a time when it’s needed most. Your gift to Season of Celebration will help p...urchase care and comfort items and new technology that enables the best medical care. https://loom.ly/C75ckig

If you need a COVID-19 test before your appointment at St. Joseph’s, you will be told well in advance. If you have not been informed, then you do not need a test before coming for your appointment. Learn more on our COVID-19 information for patients, families and visitors: https://loom.ly/2pG4IjM

Rhianne Chalmers opened a dog grooming salon last summer only months before the government-mandated shutdown forced her to close the doors. Suddenly, her dream of running her own business was put into question. Read about her story from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/3anEx #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

St. Joseph's is focused on the safety of everyone in our buildings. In 2019, we were accredited with Exemplary Standing for the third time straight showing our dedication to quality and safety. Please join us, @WHO and international partners as we celebrate #WorldPatientSafetyDay. This years theme is Healthcare Worker Safety: A Priority for #PatientSafety. Show your support by participating at https://www.patientsafetyinstitute.ca///Pages/default.aspx. First event's at 10 am.

Will has learned some valuable lessons about running a business and managing people during the pandemic. But he’s unrelenting when it comes to making Heeman’s your happy place. Behind the mask, Will shares his story: https://fal.cn/3aTuE #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

BRA Day takes place Oct 21 from 7-10 pm, it is a free event for those considering breast reconstruction surgery. Hear directly from leading breast surgeons and talk with women who have been through breast reconstruction surgery. The event will also include breakout rooms and panel discussions along with a "show and tell lounge" where you can see the real-life results of breast reconstruction and of mastectomy without reconstruction. ... Learn more and register https://loom.ly/sK30hiw #BRADay #BRADay2020 Canadian Cancer Society Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons

From the earliest days of COVID-19, infectious diseases expert Dr. Michael Silverman has tirelessly informed and guided hospital leaders and clinicians in London as they navigated the pandemic. Learn how this unwavering commitment has won the physician rare dual honours by London’s hospitals: https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca//dual-honours-remarkable-phy

Please note that due to the high volume of patients requiring testing, they are now prioritizing patients with symptoms, those who require testing for medical procedures and contacts of an individual with COVID-19. #ldnont #middlesex

After Londoner Joan Hubert was in a head on collision, doctors feared she would never walk again. With the help of the rehabilitation team at Parkwood Institute, Joan was able to take her first steps and is on the road to recovery. Each year Parkwood Institute provides rehabilitation to more than 9,700 patients. #RehabilitationDay

Medical Device Reprocessing Week Oct. 11-17 is an annual celebration to acknowledge the essential role central processing (CP) technicians play in the health care system. A total of 35 technicians work in CP at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Parkwood Institute and are key to providing the instruments and supplies needed for clinical staff to complete procedures on time while ensuring safety for patients. Across St. Joseph’s, technicians turn over about 5,300 trays each week - more... than 275,000 trays every year. With a focus on patient safety and quality assurance, the proper reprocessing of reusable patient care items is more important than ever. COVID-19 has demonstrated the importance of CP technicians and the critical role they play in ensuring patients get the best quality care. #MDRweek2020

Spiritual Care Awareness Week (Oct. 18 - 24) helps us to take a moment to recognize those who listen carefully, care deeply, and respond gently. As a faith-based organization, we recognize the importance of spiritual care, and we honour those who provide this service. Through a dedicated team of spiritual care practitioners and volunteers we meet the needs of those in our care - body, mind and spirit.

Ryan had to learn a completely new job, one he has found gratifying as he strives to keep everyone safe while ensuring adequate personal protection equipment for the region. Read about Ryan's story: https://fal.cn/3ajwE #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Virtual COVID-19 run for our hospital, which helped raise $12,088 in support of St. Joseph's Health Crisis Fund. And a very special thank you to the event's top three fundraisers, Michael, Chantal and April!! What a great idea to do a virtual run in the current circumstances. Well done VR Pro Inc.

At this time of Thanksgiving, we are grateful for the many staff, donors, volunteers and community partners who make a lasting difference in the care we provide. From our St. Joseph’s family to yours, be well and be safe. Happy #Thanksgiving.

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. As St. Josephs continues to expand the Zero Suicide Initiative across our organization and beyond, we remain committed to providing the best care for those at risk of suicide. Its okay to not be okay, and its okay to ask for help. Learn how Zero Suicide at St. Josephs is helping to close systemic gaps in care: https://loom.ly/Z8xt1N4

There is a new appointment booking website for #ldnont COVID testing. Book appointments at the Oakridge Assessment Centre online at http://covidtestinglm.ca If you need assistance or don't have access to the internet, call 519-667-6886 and leave your name, call-back number and reason for test. https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1224849467888482&id=472430739797029

Elated by reconnecting with her regular patients, Sarah hopes to never again witness patients go without care or missing time with their loved ones while in hospital. Sarah's story from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/3adsL #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Keep the people you love safe and pledge to #StoptheSpread this Thanksgiving weekend. https://loom.ly/9NpAz48

Watch what Dr. Jeremy Burton has to say about the golden age in microbiome research https://www.lawsonresearch.ca//golden-age-microbiome-resea

At St. Joseph’s, staff and physicians have been caring for our community during the pandemic. From behind the mask they have demonstrated compassion, dedication and strength. Thank you to all the care and support professionals. Many of you have faced challenges in your personal and professional lives, all while delivering exceptional care. The resiliency of our teams has shone brightly, just as it did when our founders faced perils over 150 years ago. We would also like to t...hank all essential workers in our community who wear a mask with us as we all continue our crusade. Let the stories from Behind The Mask inspire you: https://fal.cn/3aVa3 #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Think youre allergic to penicillin? Theres a good chance you actually arent. One in 10 people believe they have a penicillin allergy but the actual numbers are much lower. Its important to know for sure your health depends on it. St. Josephs allergist Dr. Samira Jeimy is working to liberate patients from a bogus penicillin allergy label. https://loom.ly/4lD-ffo

Celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday safely this weekend. Keep your family, friends and community safe by following #COVID-19 social gathering guidelines to limit social contact: https://loom.ly/Qhk89Pc

A very important message from Western University about #Thanksgiving precautions. THANK YOU to students in London and surrounding regions for your efforts to #FlattenTheCurve. Together, all of us must remain vigilant in the fight against #COVID-19. Read the message from Western's President: https://loom.ly/DCRlxMI

In Recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept 10, The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention is hosting a free, online event: "So, you say you want to help me..." Registration is required and spaces are limited.

Did you know the rate of mental illness and addictions among Indigenous people is more than double that of non-Indigenous individuals in Canada? Or that suicide rates among Indigenous youths are five times higher? On World Mental Health Day, we highlight a momentous new program offered through St. Joseph’s and Atlohsa Family Healing Services called ‘Biigajiiskaan (BEE-GAW-JEES-GAWN): Indigenous Pathways to Mental Wellness.’ ... Read how this collaborative program aims to break down long-standing barriers to care faced by Indigenous peoples and transform their mental health care experience: https://loom.ly/79H-eEM #WMHDay World Health Organization (WHO)

Celebrate the #Thanksgiving holiday safely this weekend. Keep your family, friends and community safe by following #COVID-19 social gathering guidelines to limit social contact: https://loom.ly/Qhk89Pc

Shelley moved to a new city and started a new job only a month before the onset of the pandemic. She quickly learned that being flexible was crucial to stay ahead of the change. Read more about her story: https://fal.cn/3a6TZ... #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Keeping her personal and work life balanced has been a bit of a challenge but Krisztina is meeting each challenge head on. Read about her story: https://fal.cn/3aPwN #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

On September 2, 1945, World War Two veteran Bob Kennedy had two reasons to celebrate. It was his birthday and the signing of the official surrender documents to mark victory of the allied forces over Japan and the end to the war. This year for his 100th birthday, Bob decided to record a cd of songs to celebrate and remember. Listen as he sings his version of Will Fyffes Im ninety four this morning. If you would like to buy a cd it is available for $5, please email [email protected]. #VJDay #veterans #WWII #Parkwood Canada Remembers Veterans Affairs Canada

The London Knights 50/50 closes tonight at 8pm. The pot currently sits at $9,305. You have a few hours remaining to get your 50/50 tickets to help support the St Joseph's Health Crisis Fund for COVID-19 Relief!

A Thanksgiving weekend message from #MLHU. Please share widely. We’re all in this together. We can get through this together - and we’re thankful to be going t...hrough this with you. #Thanksgiving2020 To fight this second wave of #COVID19, we’re asking you to avoid close contact with anyone who doesn’t live in your household and to avoid non-essential travel to COVID-19 hotspots (GTA, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City). This might seem challenging, confusing, and frustrating; and we know we’re asking a lot, but we all need to work together. We need to rise above and keep each other safe. The number of COVID-19 cases is increasing - and the second wave is here. What we do right now will change what happens in the weeks ahead. We need to do everything possible to keep our schools and businesses open and more importantly, we need to keep our loved ones, especially older family members, safe. We’ve asked you to make a lot of sacrifices over the past 6+ months. Now we’re asking you again. Please join us.

The once busy hallway where Betty works has become quiet, but that hasnt stopped her from supporting patients and families in a time of need. Betty shares her story from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/3a2JY #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Catholic health care advocates for a caring society that hears everyone’s voice - especially those who are most vulnerable. Read how an innovative, collaborative program of Joseph’s and Atlohsa Family Healing Services is transforming the mental health care experience of Indigenous peoples: https://loom.ly/79H-eEM #CatholicHealthCareWeek

The past few months have been the hardest time in Camilles life. With her husband recovering from a serious accident in the hospital, she wants nothing more than to be at his side. But strict health and safety protocols in place to limit exposure to COVID-19 have made it challenging to spend time with someone in hospital. Read Camille's story: https://fal.cn/39Zrf... #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Nervous about trying a new role, Kaliopi was gifted with a rewarding experience she never expected. From behind the mask, Kaliopi shares her story: https://fal.cn/3aNOf #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

At St. Josephs, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional care that allows patients and residents to live life to the fullest, which is made possible because of your generosity. One way your support helped warm hearts this past year was through the Valentines Day Prom hosted for the Veterans Care Program at Parkwood Institute! See more highlights from the past year. ... : https://fal.cn/39Ykc

Deana and her team were able to meet the needs of patients where no one else could and during a time of significant change and their gratefulness kept them motivated. She shares her story: https://fal.cn/39WJD #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Join St. Josephs 2020 blood donor challenge! St. Josephs is once again taking part in the Canadian Blood Services (CBS) Hospital Challenge from Aug. 1 to Oct 12. This annual challenge sees hospitals across Ontario go head-to-head to donate the most units of blood per capita (employee population). As hospitals resume surgical procedures, blood donations are needed now more than ever. Be sure your donation counts during the Hospital Challenge and at all times by registering with St. Josephs Partners for Life (PFL) program. Register with Partner ID: STJO012736. Book an appointment by calling 1 888 2 DONATE, or visit www.blood.ca. To book a group appointment, contact [email protected].

Patricia Ward enjoys a moment with a monarch butterfly before it's released into the wild, free to continue an age old journey to Mexico. This summer, Patricia and other residents of St. Josephs Veterans Care Program helped raise monarch butterflies through a partnership with Swift Care Ontario. Over the last couple of years, residents have helped maintain a butterfly garden at Parkwood Institute to provide a safe haven for our pollinating friends before they depart for the winter.

With work halting for more than 1,000 invaluable volunteers, Tracys job quickly changed from coordinating volunteers to managing screening at St. Josephs entrances. Tracy shares her experience from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/39PsZ #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Did you know that every year St. Josephs Hospital provides nearly 25,000 short-stay surgical treatments? Because of donor support, we were able to enhance our operating rooms to ensure the best care possible for patients while training the next generation of surgeons. Your donation makes a difference. See our Community Impact Report to learn how.... : https://fal.cn/39OgT

During the month of August the London Knights are running an online 50/50 draw in support of St. Joseph's Health Crisis Fund. The prize pool is already more than $6,000! Get your tickets today! Visit : https://fal.cn/39O1j for details.

Avid hugger, Dr. Sandra Northcott not only shifted her care delivery to a mostly virtual presence but is concerned for her ailing parents out east. Dr. Northcott shares her story: https://fal.cn/39MjL #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Months after the province gave hospitals the green light to resume surgeries and appointments cancelled by the COVID-19 lockdown, Londons hospitals are bouncing back to near pre-pandemic patient volumes https://tinyurl.com/yxw686p3

A single mom, psychologist Marilyn Hill had to adapt her personal and professional life to meet her and her patients needs. Read Marilyn's story: https://fal.cn/39IEO #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

The generosity of donors has made unique dementia care possible for the residents in the Memory Care Unit at Mount Hope. Residents are able to experience familiar things from their past like visiting the grocery store, post office or cinema, bringing them a sense of comfort. Take a tour of the interactive village that enables quality care at St. Josephs.... : https://fal.cn/39HrW

Great article on the collaborative Indigenous mental wellness program offered through Atlohsa Family Healing Services and St. Joseph's Health Care London

George finds it remarkable that a virus small enough to only be seen under a microscope can bring the entire world to a complete stop. He shares his experience from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/39Eq1 #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Beverley was ready to start a new career as a pastry chef in April, but the pandemic actually reinvigorated her interest in nursing. The call-to-service was one she couldnt refuse. Read more about Beverley's story from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/39Brj #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Shelly Segui, Program Secretary in Specialized Geriatrics Services at Parkwood Institute, wants to know if you will join her in signing up for the VR Pro Races Virtual COVID-19 Run. This event has already raised more than $11,000 in support of St. Joseph's Health Crisis Fund and there's still plenty of time to register. When you sign up $15 from your entry fee will be donated to St. Joseph's and you'll receive plenty of swag to wear on your run. What are you waiting for? Regi...ster today: https://www.events.runningroom.com//virtual-covid-19-run-/ See more

Today marks the official launch of a momentous new program offered through St. Josephs and Atlohsa Family Healing Services. Biigajiiskaan: Indigenous Pathways to Mental Wellness aims to break down long-standing barriers to care faced by Indigenous peoples and transform their mental health care experience. Learn more: https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca//biigajiiskaan-hope-healing-

Donations touched every part of St. Josephs care in 2019-20. From imaging equipment like the 3T MRI, to internet-based mental health services, to iPads that enable residents and patients to communicate with loved ones during challenging times. Read more about donor dollars in action this past year.... : https://fal.cn/39xsb See more

As an Infection Control Practitioner at St. Josephs Hospital, Lorna knows that each of us must play a role in preventing the spread of the virus. Together, we have the power to control our collective destiny. Read Lorna's story: https://fal.cn/39sty #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Carl works tirelessly in his department while continuing to volunteer in a group that helps health care workers cope with their mental health needs. Carl shares his story from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/39pjU #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt

Were keeping communities moving! Thanks to a generous $2.5-million donation from Bill and Lynne Gray, weve partnered with Western University to establish Canadas first-ever research chair in mobility and activity. The Chair will play a central role in Westerns research into mobility and aging, and in the scientific leadership and development of the Gray Centre for Mobility & Activity at St. Josephs, which aims to help address mobility issues facing members of our community, and those across Canada. Read more : https://fal.cn/39p2Q

He asked, and she said yes! Because of the generosity of donors, 100-year-old Veteran Bill Thomson was able to ask Iris (his wife of 76 years) to their first prom at Parkwood Institute. This is one of many reasons why your donation matters. See more highlights from the past year. ... : https://fal.cn/39nSQ

Daniel has had to make several personal sacrifices in recent months, but he remains focused on the people in his care and enjoys watching them achieve their physical health goals. Read about his experience from behind the mask: https://fal.cn/39l2U #BehindTheMask #LdnOnt