Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
2075 Bayview Avenue M4N 3M5 Toronto, ON, Canada

Sunnybrook has ranked #2 in Canada and #25 globally in Newsweek's annual World’s Best Hospitals ranking. The high ranking is a tribute to the talented group of people that make up Team Sunnybrook thank you for all that you do! Read more: https://sunnybrook.ca/foundation/media/item.asp

I was 55 years old when the tremors started. At the time it was minor but gradually my two hands were shaking so terribly that it was a battle to eat, drink, or write. I needed my wife’s help. I couldn’t look after myself. It was quite debilitating. In May 2012, I was one of the first patients with essential tremor in Canada to receive focused ultrasound treatment in a clinical trial at Sunnybrook. The doctors put a special headframe on me. I was inside the MRI and ultrasound... was targeted to treat the part of my brain causing tremors on the dominant side of my body, the right side. During the procedure I was brought out to do tests. When I touched the doctor’s finger without shaking, there was just total amazement. Afterwards, I was given a cup of water to drink. Before, I would’ve thrown it all over the place, but instead I took it, and I drank it. I was totally awestruck I could do that. Afterwards it was a huge change in my life. I could have a cup of coffee, which is really important in the morning! Being able to write again was another milestone. Focused ultrasound is a life-changer for many people who have tremors. It can give them a new life. Especially now, since my wife passed away, I have to do things myself. It’s been a huge help to me to be able to drink properly and look after myself properly. I vacuum the house and I do a lot of other things like water the garden. My left side still has tremors but because my right was treated, I have more control. I am proud to have participated in this work. To feel that I had a small share in that makes me very happy. I knew if it was a success, it would help other people. One of my goals in life is to try and help as many people as I can. I also want to say to the team at Sunnybrook that you all are something very special to me. I’m so grateful. Focused ultrasound changed my life. Marking a 10-year milestone: Cliff Tony Lightfoot was one of the first patients in a Canadian study at Sunnybrook in May 2012, that led to the approval of focused ultrasound treatment for patients with essential tremor. Learn more about focused ultrasound at sunnybrook.ca/fus

February is #BlackHistoryMonth. In a new photo series, some of our team members share their experiences working in healthcare and their reflections on what this month means to them:

Black History Month has always been a time to celebrate the beauty of people of African descent. More recently I’ve been intentional about pre-colonial African history, so I can teach my daughter that her history did not begin with African enslavement. It’s important that she knows how rich her history is, so she can be confident in who she is where she comes from, says Kamilah Clayton, Patient Administrative Assistant at Sunnybrook. Kamilah is pictured (middle) with her mo...ther, Valrie Phillips, who is a (retired) registered nurse, and her stepfather Michael Phillips, who is a (retired) OR attendant. Both Valrie and Michael worked at Sunnybrook for over 30 years. Now Kamilah is following in their footsteps; she’s been working at the hospital since 2000. This #BlackHistoryMonth, we invited Sunnybrook team members to share what this month means to them. Read Kamilah, Valrie & Michael’s full reflections: https://sunnybrook.ca/content/?page=black-history-month

Meet Dr. Adrienne Chan. This infectious disease physician is at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic at Sunnybrook. Throughout her career, Dr. Chan worked on the front lines of both the SARS and Ebola epidemics. She has also spent much of her career focused on infectious diseases in the developing world. In this Canada’s International Development Global Affairs Canada feature, Dr. Chan offers her global perspective on the COVID-19 pandemic, and shares the lessons she’s learned from her experiences on the front lines: https://www.international.gc.ca//global-covid-19-perspecti

Nearly a year after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, there’s another crisis brewing beneath the surface: undetected breast cancers. If you are due for a mammogram, we want to see you. Book your screening test today: bit.ly/breast_screening

Personally, Black History Month means representation. It provides an opportunity for myself and others to discover, celebrate and understand the impact that Black people and our culture have on society both past and present. Particularly within STEM, where we continue to be underrepresented, celebrating Black scientists, doctors and entrepreneurs, gives youths a vision of where they could be and what they can achieve." - Ashton C. Trotman-Grant. Ashton is a PhD candidate i...n the Department of Immunology at the University of Toronto and Immunology researcher at Sunnybrook Research Institute. Read more about what Black History Month means to Ashton, and learn more about his work here at Sunnybrook: sunnybrook.ca/content/?page=black-history-month

In a world first, a team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons at Sunnybrook implanted a specialized mitral valve repair ring through a catheter, giving hope to patients who otherwise would be out of treatment options:

Please give today to help ensure Sunnybrook’s critical, life-saving research and innovation gets the strongest possible start to 2021 - and take advantage of your 2020 tax credits: http://bit.ly/sunnybrookyearend Did you know your unused tax credits for charitable donations expire at midnight tomorrow? Give today to take advantage of yours, and help our hospital at this urgent and critical time. This has been a year like none other, and we’re looking toward a better 2021. And as always, Sunnybrook’s health care teams are putting everything on the line to keep our community safe, when it matters most.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an uncommon heart attack that predominantly affects young women in their 30s, 40s or 50s. Meet Dr. Mina Madan, director of a specialized clinic for patients affected by this condition: instagram.com/p/CK1d6s-H2r8/

Baby Carlisle spent 17 weeks in Sunnybrook’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). He was born on August 25, 2020 at 23 weeks, weighing just 700 grams. We’re excited to share that he’ll be ringing in the New Year at home!

2020 has been a year unlike any other. Team Sunnybrook has persevered through it all, facing the COVID-19 pandemic with the utmost resilience, leadership and courage. Take a look back at just some of the moments from inside of Sunnybrook this year. View the full gallery: bit.ly/insidesunnybrook

For us, they were courageous. For us, they sacrificed. For us, they served. They are Canada’s veteran heroes. In this photo series, view images of Canada’s heroes as they were during their time in the war, and now, as residents of our Veterans Centre: bit.ly/canadas-heroes

"In the middle of the second wave, the transmission in the community is increasing, and our 'social bubble' needs to be kept to only the individuals that are under the same roof." Hear from Dr. Jerome Leis, our Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control.

"Consider scheduling in time each day for self-care to help decrease stress and anxiety, and boost mental health to support your new year's journey," suggests psychiatrist Dr. Matthew Boyle.

Former Toronto Maple Leafs captain Darryl Sittler encourages Canadians to support Operation Raise a Flag and the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre Honour and thank our veterans: http://raiseaflag.ca #CanadaRemembers

For 30 years, occupational therapist Estella Tse has worked with patients who have life-changing injuries. More than fixing a limb or teaching a skill, it’s about bringing possibility into people’s lives, she says. Her story: instagram.com/p/CJW2dk1sk1o

Personalizing cancer therapy: see how our researchers are using advanced imaging, robots, and artificial intelligence to bring precision medicine to patients with leukemia. Read more: https://sunnybrook.ca/research/media/item.asp

These teeny babies in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are ready for Santa's arrival! Merry Christmas!

I’m very proud of the role that the Merchant Navy played in providing desperately needed equipment, fuel, food and personnel to Europe and around the world," says veteran Clay Hayes. Read his story and support Operation Raise a Flag: sunnybrook.ca/foundation/raiseaflag/#our-veterans #CanadaRemembers

How does Operation Raise a Flag support our veterans? Hear from the Medical Director of our Veterans Centre on CTV Your Morning: https://ctv.ca//how-operation-raise-a-flag-supports-and-ce Say thank you to Canada's veterans. Support Operation Raise a Flag today: http://raiseaflag.ca #CanadaRemembers

An exciting day! Today, Sunnybrook began administering the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to residents of our Veterans Centre the largest Veterans' care facility in Canada. The first two recipients said they were excited to be part of this historic moment: - Richard Ratcliffe, 92 years old, served with the Royal Canadian Navy during the Korean War and Cold War.... - Stanley Dinney, 98 years old, served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Sunnybrook Veteran residents are among those prioritized to receive the vaccine from our first shipment, which arrived yesterday. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine will be administered in two doses, given 21 days apart. More: https://sunnybrook.ca/media/item.asp

November 5-11 is #VeteransWeek. In this video, residents of the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre share what Remembrance Day means to them. Join us in thanking our veterans: http://raiseaflag.ca #CanadaRemembers

You can tell Melissa Leung is smiling under her mask as she checks on a patient in Sunnybrook’s Maternal and Newborn Unit. "I'm often a listening ear; every pregnancy is so different," says Melissa. Melissa, a registered practical nurse or RPN, was always drawn to women's health. Before joining Sunnybrook’s team, she worked at a fertility clinic. Patients are so strong at every part of their journey, whether it’s trying to conceive or navigating life with a newborn. It’s an ...honour to be there for them. As an RPN, Melissa says her days fly by as she gets new parents up to speed on postpartum and newborn care, including teaching how to bathe a baby and providing breastfeeding education. She's had ups and downs personally since the pandemic began. She and her partner had to postpone their September wedding to next year. A bright light was welcoming Mochi, a French bulldog who is very keen to cuddle, to their home. When asked her advice for a stressful day, Melissa says, Just know you’re not alone, whether it’s at work with colleagues, or home with family and friends. It’s okay to lean on others.

With Remembrance Day just one week away, the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre is getting some help adapting its ceremony during the pandemic. As Natalie Kalata explains, that help is coming from a 92-year-old Korean War veteran.

This week, Sunnybrook's Tory Trauma Program enrolled the first patients in its new BRAVE (Breaking the Cycle of Violence with Empathy) Program. It's the first program of its kind at a Canadian trauma centre.

This week, Sunnybrook is celebrating recipients of the 2020 Bertin Awards for Excellence in Customer Service. These awards provide us the opportunity to recognize exceptional non-clinical staff who go above and beyond! Read more: https://sunnybrook.ca/media/item.asp Congratulations to Bertin Award winner May Yiu, Executive Assistant to the President & CEO. In this video, see why May was nominated: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wF-gJe0Q2KM

When Elijah arrived at Sunnybrook’s Ross Tilley Burn Centre in 2017, his injuries were so severe that the difficult decision was made to amputate both his arms to save his life. Where he once enjoyed activities like snowmobiling, fishing and motocross biking, Elijah faced the prospect of having to relearn how to do just about everything. "Rehabilitation is a team effort," says Dr. Marc Jeschke, director of the Ross Tilley Burn Centre; and Elijah has played many roles on that ...team from receiving care at the burn centre and St. John’s Rehab to helping Sunnybrook fine-tune some of the most cutting-edge artificial limb control technology. The latest version features multiple sensors and pattern recognition technology that give him the ability to manipulate fingers independently and even an opposable thumb. The technology only recently made the leap from research to commercial product. It is so new the team had to wait a few weeks to get the elbows approved by Health Canada. Read more about Elijah’s journey: https://sunnybrook.ca//you/new-prosthetic-technology.html Watch a video of his story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pnk6WODt4A0

In July, Danielle and her husband welcomed twins Elise and David, born at 27 weeks. The twins were born mid-pandemic, and following the loss of the couple’s son Josiah. It still brings me to tears remembering how we felt supported, so well informed and cared for, says Danielle.... On this World Prematurity Day, read Danielle's story:

"I always dreamed of being a mom," says Esther, who had been married just a year when she was diagnosed with both lupus and stage-four chronic kidney disease. Suddenly, her lifelong dream of parenthood seemed to come to an abrupt halt. Late-stage and end-stage kidney disease can significantly affect fertility, and those who do conceive face significant risks, such as preeclampsia and preterm birth. With the support of Sunnybrook's Pregnancy and Kidney Disease Clinic, Esther i...s now a mother of two. Read about her journey: https://sunnybrook.ca/f/your-impact/a-dream-fulfilled.html

A global COVID-19 treatment trial has shown that current antivirals are of little benefit to hospitalized patients. Researchers looked at remdesivir, hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir & interferon. Dr. Robert Fowler co-led the trial's Canadian arm:

Meet Archana Kunasegaram and Michelle Mendoza, who are with Sunnybrooks Occupational Health and Safety team. They are safety specialists who develop ways to ensure staff are safe from hazards. We make sure employees are safe at work and aim to minimize or eliminate hazards theyre potentially exposed to. This includes hazards such as chemical agents, noise and infectious diseases, says Archana (pictured left). One of my priorities during COVID-19 has been physical... distancing throughout the hospital. Physical distancing is a control strategy to reduce the risk of spreading this virus. Were working on improving clinics, units and common spaces and adjusting our strategies as things change, for example, as we welcome more visitors. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Michelle had only been working at Sunnybrook for a few months. I really hit the ground running, she says. Its been a challenging issue, but very rewarding to work with teams to ensure our ideas are helping them. Im focused on personal protective equipment (PPE) usage and developing back-up plans to reduce the risk of supply issues. Occupational Health and Safety is adapting to changes constantly, says Michelle (pictured right). We need to stay flexible, think on our feet, and really listen to what staff are telling us. Thats how we develop ways to improve. Reflecting on the experience so far, Archana says, Whether its a change in a cleaning process or equipment, our team wants to make sure all these COVID-19 process changes keep staff safety as the priority. Im really proud of our Sunnybrook teams for being brave and being there for each other its been very inspiring to see. Says Michelle, The psychological impact of this pandemic shouldnt be minimized. Stress is a hazard in itself. Everyone needs to take care of their physical, mental and emotional needs. I want to remind our staff how amazing they are and to look after themselves so they stay well and resilient.

Earlier this year, Dr. Samira Mubareka and Dr. Rob Kozak were part of a team that isolated SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. We caught up with them to chat about their research and what's next:

The MR-Linac is the first and only machine in the world to combine simultaneous external-beam radiation and high-field strength MRI. While still in clinical trials, the merging of these technologies could transform radiation therapy for some of the hardest-to-treat cancers, and more common cancers, too, including pancreas and prostate. Learn more about the work Sunnybrook’s radiation oncologists are doing with the MR-Linac and sign up for our virtual panel where experts will discuss personalizing cancer care: https://sunnybrook.ca//your-impact/precision-and-hope.html

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer and its treatments can cause many changes to a woman’s body. After treatment, some women may find themselves experiencing challenges with their body image. In this resource designed with input from women facing breast cancer experts share tips & strategies to help: bit.ly/cancer-body-image

Each year, players and Leafs Alumni members visit Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Veterans Centre to honour our Veterans and their families. Earlier this month, we had the honour of meeting, speaking with and thanking Veterans and their families through a virtual visit. #LestWeForget

When Canadas first COVID-19 patient was admitted to Sunnybrook, nurse Clarice Shen volunteered to care for him. I really believe that everything aligned so that I was in the right place, at the right time, to help this patient, she says. Read Clarice's story, and watch as she shares her experiences on Cityline, where she was gifted with a much-deserved surprise! ... Read: bit.ly/Clarices-Story Watch: youtube.com/watch?v=iRURmBzDIP0 - Tourism Authority of Thailand Canada Tracy Moore #HealthcareHeroes

Happy Halloween from our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)! Each Halloween, families in our NICU mark the occasion by making costumes for their little ones. Celebrating holidays & milestones like these can help bring joy to NICU families during what can be a challenging journey.... These moments of joy have been especially meaningful & important for families during these unprecedented times

Are you feeling 'Zoom fatigue'? Here's why video chats can be exhausting and what you can do about it:

"I hope that by taking part in this clinical trial I can help make a difference," says Pat Wilson, the first patient with Parkinson's disease in the world to be part of a groundbreaking trial by Sunnybrook and UHN researchers. Read more: https://sunnybrook.ca/research/media/item.asp

Two years after the Yonge Street Tragedy, Cathy is walking tall. The severity of her injuries kept her confined to a hospital for two months, followed by two years of working to regain her mobility with the help of St. John's Rehab. For #RehabilitationDay, she shares the story of her rehab journey. Read more: https://health.sunnybrook.ca/patient-sto/cathy-rehab-story/

How fast can a COVID-19 vaccine realistically become available? Dr. Rob Kozak, scientist and clinical microbiologist at Sunnybrook, recently answered this and other questions about vaccine research and development:

In a groundbreaking, world-first clinical trial, a team of researchers from Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and University Health Network are using focused ultrasound technology to deliver a therapeutic directly to affected brain regions in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Read more: https://sunnybrook.ca/research/media/item.asp

When Dr. Alvin Zipursky's beloved wife Freda passed away from ALS, he started the Freda Fund in her memory. Alvin wanted to make a difference in the lives of patients and through their support of Sunnybrook’s ALS clinic, the Freda Fund is doing just that. Recently, their support of ground-breaking research helped the clinic make history when they used MRI-guided focused ultrasound to reach deep into the brain and safely and temporarily open the blood-brain barrier in ALS patients. Read more about the Freda Fund’s impact:

A Sunnybrook hospital project joining MRI to radiation therapy is seeking better ways to treat the deadliest brain tumours. The team is specializing in glioblastomas, the type that killed The Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie in 2017. http://torstar.co/aHz450BPoxM

"Watching them find their passions in life is incredible," says mom Sandy. "There are no limitations. They want to try something new and they follow through."

While Thanksgiving gatherings are limited to our households this year, it’s still important to stay safe while preparing a meal of any size. Occupancy at our burn centre is already very high, and we’re concerned about needing to admit even more people this weekend because of burns from cooking, says Dr. Marc Jeschke, Medical Director of Sunnybrook’s Ross Tilley Burn Centre. More tips for safely preparing a holiday meal: https://health.sunnybrook.ca//tips-for-giving-thanks-safe/

On Sept 15, join our experts for a virtual talk on youth mental health. Theyll discuss youth mental health during the pandemic and strategies for supporting young people who are struggling. Sign up now and submit questions for our expert panel: https://secure2.convio.net/sfou/site/SPageServer/

Pandemic life can be stressful and overwhelming. Psychiatrist Dr. Karen Wang offers ways to help cope with 'pandemic fatigue': - maintain a routine - acknowledge & accept emotions - practice self-care - find the good... - reach out for help See more

As the colder months approach during the pandemic, it's important to plan ahead to help support elderly loved ones, says geriatric psychiatrist Dr. Damien Gallagher:

"People really need to get tested if they have any symptoms that could range from a common cold to more flu-like symptoms because it could definitely be coronavirus," says Dr. Jerome Leis, Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Sunnybrook.

Meet Tony Videira, a linen worker at St. John's Rehab. His daily route of collecting and delivering linens means he visits every unit and is a familiar face. "It's a busy role and keeps me moving all day." While his work responsibilities didnt change with COVID-19, Tony says he did have to alter some of his routes to accommodate inpatient units caring for recovering patients. "The virus was so new, and were still learning about it, so everyone has been very careful to take ...precautions and wear the proper protection." Despite doing so through masks, Tony says interacting with staff is a highlight of his day. We look for support in each other. We all still have a job and service to provide. We just have to take those extra steps to stay safe. When leaving St. John's Rehab where Tony has worked since 1985 he says those safety precautions continue. "My wife is immune-compromised and we have a young daughter at home. She is only three, but already understands how important it is that we all wash our hands."

In moments of stress or anxiety, box breathing is a relaxation technique that can help calm your body and mind. Read more: https://health.sunnybrook.ca//box-breathing-calm-stress-a/

Thanksgiving may look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find ways to stay connected with those we love. This year, celebrate with those outside of your household by: Mailing out handwritten cards Sending flowers or a food delivery Cooking & enjoying a meal together virtually... More tips:

"Practicing good hand hygiene, keeping hands away from the face, wearing a mask, minimizing the touching of shared surfaces (like opening a door with your hip or elbow) and remaining physically distant as much as possible will all be important in preventing transmission of all kinds of viral bugs common in the fall/winter season, in addition to COVID-19," says Natasha Salt, our director of infection prevention and control.

This week is #MentalIllnessAwarenessWeek. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone. There is hope, and there is help. #MIAW20 Get resources and information from our Department of Psychiatry:

In a massive global study, researchers from Sunnybrook, the University of Toronto and Western University are investigating the impacts of COVID-19 on the brain:

Since suffering a stroke in March, Julian has been working with a team at St. John's Rehab to regain his strength, balance and mobility. "Now, all of my mind is on exercise, getting back my health and my capability of daily life," he says.

On Sept 21, join our experts for a virtual talk on COVID-19: From Prevention to Recovery. Visit our Speaker Series website to: sign up for an email reminder watch the live webcast... send questions to our expert panel See more

Congratulations to Dr. Isabelle Aubert, who was recently awarded the country's highest research honour: a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair. Read more about her world-leading research in brain repair and regeneration:

Have you experienced COVID-19? We're looking for people to share their story and help us improve the care experience for future patients. Participants in this project will receive a gift card.

Back-to-school this year will be unlike any other due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sunnybrook psychiatrists share their insights to help parents and children navigate this challenging time:

Face masks are a critical tool in helping curb the spread of COVID-19. For some children and adults, wearing a mask can take some getting used to, and may cause anxious feelings. A psychiatrist's tips for coping with mask wearing when anxiety strikes:

Earlier this year, 99-year-old WWII veteran George Markow set a goal to walk 100km to raise $100k for COVID-19 research. Today, he reached the 100km milestone! Congratulations, George! We are so grateful to you and everyone who has donated so far: https://ca.gofundme.com/f/99-yr-old-walking-100-km-for-medi

Look at your poop before you flush. It could save your life. Colorectal cancer is a disease that every adult should be aware of, regardless of age. Learn how to identify early signs of the disease and know when to get screened: bit.ly/LookBeforeYouFlush

Chadwick Bosemans death at 43 has people asking questions about colorectal cancer, and researchers say cases are going up among people younger than 50. Sunnybrook Hospitals Dr. Shady Ashamalla talks to Ian Hanomansing about the risks and recognizing the warning signs.

Tips for supporting individuals with hearing loss when wearing a face mask or covering while out in the community:

For Susan Robarts and the rehabilitation team, COVID-19 triggered a complete reversal in the way care is delivered. As a clinical supervisor in the Holland Bone and Joint Program, Susan oversees a team of eight advanced practice providers who assess and triage patients with a wide range of joint problems to determine a treatment plan and arrange a surgical consultation when needed. They also see patients for their surgical follow-up in a team approach with surgeons. We typic...ally see about 700 patients per month in person, and follow up with an additional 25 over the phone. The pandemic reversed these numbers overnight, so we had to work together to develop a system where we could provide virtual care to most of our patients, says Susan. The care the team provides is helping to add capacity during COVID-19 by supporting patients with joint pain at a time when the health-care system is stretched. They also play an important role as scheduled surgeries continue to resume. Were part of the solution to getting back up and running as efficiently as possible by expediting those patients that need to see a surgeon. Now more than ever, our team approach to care is needed, says Susan. Similarly, in the outpatient physiotherapy program, 20 classes per week were abruptly stopped. We had to become incredibly innovative and resourceful in order to pivot to treating patients through virtual care, says physiotherapist Mark Anunciacion. Its really challenging to go from a hands-on profession, to providing care by video. While you can assess wound healing by video, we had to get creative to assess things like mobility, range of motion and strength, and create an environment where teaching complex therapeutic exercises is possible. This innovation has created new ways to support patients and represents an exciting opportunity to make care more accessible, says Mark. Its a bold step forward that will improve access to a team of experts at the Holland Centre for local and remote patients alike. In a strange way, COVID-19 has challenged us to be more creative in meeting patients needs, says Susan.

Congratulations, Dr. Krista Lanctôt! This innovative study is the only Canadian trial among 16 Alzheimer's Association Part the Cloud-Gates Partnership Grant Program winners from around the world.

Critical research led by Sunnybrook into suicide prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic is receiving an immediate $100,000 investment from TELUS and the Entwistle Family Foundation. Led by Dr. Mark Sinyor, suicide prevention expert and Sunnybrook psychiatrist, researchers will combine data from Toronto's three regional trauma centres. The information will be analyzed to determine what drives suicide risk during this pandemic and help guide prevention efforts.

Meet Alia Thawer and Susan Singh, who are with Sunnybrooks Oral Anticancer Medication (OACM) team. They make sure that patients taking oral drugs for their cancer receive them in a safe and timely way. The OACM team includes pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, social workers and drug reimbursement specialists. We oversee the process from prescribing, to access, to reaching out to patients in the community remotely to make sure they are adhering to their treatment and not suf...fering any unnecessary side effects, says Alia, pictured left. The role includes counselling patients when they start a drug, helping some secure funding for medications and making sure they are getting timely refills. "With COVID-19, our program had to adapt to care for patients in a new way that involved fewer face-to-face encounters. This meant a lot of changes had to happen, says Susan, pictured right. We worked with physicians, nurses and clerical teams to identify which patients could be assessed virtually to minimize visits. For these patients, we had to adapt our workflow to be able to proactively anticipate patients who would need drug delivery. We also worked with physicians and patients to ensure medications were couriered safely without a lapse in treatment, she says. We ramped up usage of tele-oncology to provide drug counselling, symptom assessment and blood work monitoring so patients could receive care at home, says Alia. Pharmacists, allied health, nurses and physicians did an excellent job at communicating back and forth to ensure the needs of patients were being met safely. Looking forward, Alia says the team is extremely proud of how the Odette Cancer Centre pharmacy has come together to create innovative solutions to keep staff and patients safe while maintaining high quality care. This collaborative spirit makes us very hopeful for the future. We are one small piece of the puzzle but are grateful to the excellent pharmacy leadership who helped us do our part to quickly adapt to the evolving situation. Most of all, we are so grateful to patients who worked with us in trying to develop new models of care.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, fear and anxiety surrounding hospital visits has caused some patients to put off getting the medical care they need. Please do not ignore medical symptoms, continue to take care of chronic medical conditions, and seek medical care when needed. Hospitals are safe, with numerous protocols in place to help protect our patients:

Meet Dana Chatzitassis. She works in Environmental Services at Sunnybrook. Every day, Danas expertise protects the health and safety of staff, patients and visitors to the hospitals palliative care unit. She is specially trained in cleaning and disinfection protocols, which are critical in minimizing the risk of infection and spread of viruses like COVID-19. Dana, together with a team of 500 other highly trained Environmental Partners from her department, has been on the fr...ont-lines of the pandemic since day one. The procedures and chemistry employed in the environmental cleaning and disinfection processes are very involved and meticulous, and they must be undertaken with great care and attention to detail. Its been a very difficult time, very stressful. As individuals and as a department, were hyper vigilant anyway. But now, were afraid to let our guard down because there are still cases circulating and we dont know who has it. We want to protect everyone here and feel a huge responsibility to keep things contained. Dana says the strength and resilience of her team is helping her cope. Im the eternal optimist, and a lot of the people I work with are the same. While COVID-19 has changed and exhausted all of us, were still hopeful. We cant wait for the day that we finally see the other side of all this. Read Dana's full story: bit.ly/danas-story

Amanda Orichefsky knew from a young age she wanted to be a mother. "I wasn't sure it would happen though. Amanda, an artist, was born with arthrogryposis, a neuromuscular condition that affects the movement and strength of her limbs. She and her partner David gave up trying to get pregnant and got a new dog. Within months, Amanda was pregnant.... Under the care of Dr. Anne Berndl and the team at Sunnybrooks Accessible Care Pregnancy Clinic, she had a healthy pregnancy. Baby McKenzie was born on July 15, 2020, weighing five pounds, nine ounces. After a short stay in the hospitals neonatal intensive care unit, McKenzie is now home with her family. Amanda has thought about the moment she was handed to her mother 31 years ago. I was literally folded in half, with my feet up near my face, says Amanda, who uses a motorized wheelchair and lives with her supportive mother Annette and David. She has had 14 surgeries throughout her lifetime, with the first at just a few months of age to lower her legs and correct her clubbed feet, as well as two scoliosis surgeries in her early teens. Always a nurturer to both her younger step-sister and her niece, family has been important to Amanda. Her other passion is art. She has a diploma in Fine Arts & Animation from George Brown College and is a member of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists where her pieces are available for sale. Pregnancy had its ups and downs says Amanda, who has anxiety around her health. Sunnybrook has supported me through it all. I am beyond grateful. Now, holding McKenzie, Amanda says shes ready for this new chapter. Im loving being a mommy so much and Im learning new ways to care for her by myself each day. Shes very healthy and happy. Its all I could ask for. - Our photographer spent some time documenting Amanda's pregnancy, birth and life as a new mom. View some of these photos in this gallery.

Do cloth masks help slow the spread of COVID-19? How often should I wash my mask? Can I just wear a face shield instead? August 7 - 14 is World Mask Week. In this post, our experts answer common questions about masks and mask use:

Meet Karen Lam and Natalie Kriajeva. Karen is the manager of Sunnybrooks M1 outpatient pharmacy. She is one of 12 pharmacists working there with 15 technicians, including senior technician Natalie. The pharmacists on the team provide extensive knowledge about medications, and the technicians assist in preparing and delivering prescriptions. Both are important parts of getting patients the medication and care that they need. "COVID-19 brought in some functional changes, like ...what personal protective equipment we need to wear in the space that we work in, but the care we give to our patients hasn't really changed," says Karen. "It's just been a bit more difficult to communicate with them through masks and plexiglass, but patients have been understanding." Natalie says the pharmacy has been busy as many patients have been worried about running out of medication during the pandemic. "The team is here to help patients get their prescriptions, and also have been working extra hard to send medications by courier to people who can't come in or don't feel comfortable doing so." Together, Karen and Natalie also work to ensure their staff remain safe and taken care of. They say every day presents new challenges, but a healthy working environment is always top of mind. "Of course, everyone is more stressed during this time, but we have a culture here to make sure we keep smiling and don't feel too bogged down," says Karen. "By taking care of ourselves, we're making sure we can also keep taking care of others."

Sunnybrook is the first adult burn centre in Canada to treat severe burns with a specialized laser. The results are offering some patients a new recovery path. Read more: https://health.sunnybrook.ca//specialized-laser-treatment/

Today is #InternationalFriendshipDay. Odette Cancer Centre registered nurses Tanis Watkins and Debbie Lawrie have been friends for more than two decades. When I started working in the outpatient clinic, Debbie and I just clicked, Tanis recalls. She had a welcoming smile and theres a real sincerity to her. She really helped me adjust to the new role. Debbie says it was Tanis sense of humour and contagious laugh that brought them together, as well as the realization they ...share the same birthday. So its like we are sisters, Debbie laughs. Their friendship, they agree, is simply about supporting each other. We dont always agree about everything, but we are always there for each other, Debbie says. Theyve been by each others sides through many life events, including the current COVID-19 pandemic. Having been nurses for many years, we have been through many endemics and weathered many challenges, Debbie says. But nothing has been quite like the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the many changes to processes at work, the global pandemic has brought so many changes at home, too. Everyone has been affected by this in different ways, Tanis says. Its been great to have each other. We look out for each other. Yes, Tanis just got me ordering coffee through an app so I dont have to wait in line! Debbie says. So we look out for and learn from each other. #internationaldayoffriendship #friendshipday

This year, we have seen 70 patients injured riding motorcycles (including dirt bikes). Remember always wear a full set of motorcycle safety gear: Helmet Jacket Gloves Boots... Pants Get geared up & make your way to the open roads ahead:

Heartwarming news We're so happy for you, Mara, and we thank you for your kind words and support for our Palliative Care Unit: https://donate.sunnybrook.ca/palliativecare

When the going gets tough, Or Har-Gil gets creative. The art therapist uses the visual arts to help her clients reflect on their thoughts, feelings and experiences. Its about taking those feelings that are floating around inside of us and finding a way to express them through the art itself or verbally through speaking about our art and sharing afterward. Or has been an art therapist for 10 years. For four of those years, she has been setting up a drop-in table at Sunnyb...rooks Odette Cancer Centre several times a week, where patients and family members could stop in for a creative moment to bead or draw while they wait for an appointment, a test result or a medication to be mixed. The program was all about meeting people where they are and managing anxiety in the moment, she said. Its an opportunity for a brief encounter for support and connection. Of course, the global COVID-19 pandemic meant Ors in-person art therapy sessions were put on pause. Along with the rest of the Patient and Family Support Program team, Or started exploring virtual options. We are all feeling isolated throughout the pandemic, and for people facing cancer, which is already isolating, many are feeling it even more as they stay distanced from others and really limit close contacts to stay safe. Or will now go virtual every Tuesday for Odette Cancer Centre patients who wish to join in. Her hope is that the virtual art therapy sessions (which require registration but no art experience and theres no pressure to share out loud) will provide some connection and support. I want to tap into your resilience: what can you create with what you have at home? Its less about the art materials, and more about the creation. It doesnt matter if you have paints and brushes or a Post-It note and a pen. All you need is a willingness to learn or try something new, and an interest in a bit of self-care. For more information about these virtual art therapy sessions, visit https://sunnybrook.ca/content/ ----- Or was photographed at home by her husband Ryan

Andrew Kennedy is used to overseeing a busy clinical setting as a patient care manager at the Holland Bone and Joint Program, and that experience has helped him in his new role as manager of Sunnybrook's COVID-19 Assessment Centre. "I got a team together within a few days, and early on we were testing in the emergency department," he says. "We soon realized we needed a more sustainable model, so everyone from maintenance to parking to our infection prevention specialists mob...ilized quickly to prepare a bigger space in another area at the Bayview campus. His team also provides support and remote testing to other Sunnybrook sites, community partner agencies and various long-term care and retirement homes in the city. "It's a lot of work and extended hours for the team, but that community outreach is really meaningful." Andrew says getting tested for COVID-19 can be stressful for patients, so providing a reassuring environment is important. "We are all following best practices and working together to make the testing experience as smooth as possible for patients. We're here to help." For more information about Sunnybrook and COVID-19, visit https://sunnybrook.ca/content/?page=novel-coronavirus

On January 25, Canadas first case of COVID-19 was confirmed at Sunnybrook. Take an inside look at what happened in the hospital six months ago, as our incredible team of experts came together to contain a new virus and provide care to the countrys first COVID-19 patient: https://www.ourwindsor.ca//10124148-how-a-toronto-hospita/

"I am not sure what the fall and winter will bring, but know that all the hard work that was done in the hospital this past spring will serve us well in the future. -- Sharon Yamashita is the clinical coordinator for pharmacy in Sunnybrook's Critical Care Unit. She optimizes medication therapy in critically ill patients and provides support to the medical and nursing staff on issues related to drug therapy. She is also involved in teaching.... Sharon says COVID-19 triggered a flurry of pandemic planning at the hospital, like preparing for possible drug shortages and training pharmacy staff to work in the intensive care units. "Change is difficult at the best of times, so it was hard not to be overwhelmed by the information and demands that were shifting sometimes on a daily basis," she says. "It was a tremendous effort on the part of the whole pharmacy department. She says COVID-19 made her teaching duties equally hectic, as all classes and workshops had to be quickly converted to online platforms. Despite the turmoil, Sharon says she is feeling cautiously optimistic. "I am not sure what the fall and winter will bring, but know that all the hard work that was done in the hospital this past spring will serve us well in the future.

Researchers from Sunnybrook, University Health Network and University of Toronto are developing an app that aims to monitor the symptoms of COVID-19 patients recovering at home, and alert a health-care provider if the patient requires medical care. We want to make sure people with COVID-19 who develop severe disease while recovering at home get help before they become critically ill, says Dr. Andrea Gershon, respirologist and scientist at Sunnybrook Research Institute. Read more: bit.ly/COVIDFreeatHome

Yacob Hailemariam remembers how he felt when he needed surgery one year ago. Ill never forget that experience of needing to be helped and feeling anxious, so now I use that to help people whenever I can. Its so important to treat others the way you want to be treated. Yacob used this sentiment to make some incredible connections when his role was redeployed in March. He normally works as a regional reprocessing technician, working with a team of about 50 people to ensur...e instruments and equipment needed for surgeries and procedures around the hospital are properly sterilized. When non-urgent surgeries were put on hold in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Yacob provided masks to patients and screened patients for symptoms of illness for two months at Sunnybrooks Bayview campus' main entrance. It was a stressful time, but I absolutely loved interacting with patients one on one, he says. I had a chance to ask how people were doing, and how I could help them. Listening to their point of view really helped people feel more comfortable. I really made some meaningful moments. One that resonates is the relationship he developed with a patient who comes to the hospital several times a week. When I first met the patient, they mentioned how sad they were. Then we started talking about all the positive things we could focus on. By the time I got the patient up to their clinic, they asked if I could accompany them again during their next appointment. I did, and it was one of the most satisfying moments Ive ever had at Sunnybrook. Yacob says hes grateful for these emotional investments, and all the support of other staff and coordinators who worked alongside him during this very challenging time. Were all getting older and at some point well need care. If you see the opportunity to help someone, take it.

Colleen was 24 weeks pregnant when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. The diagnosis came in March of this year, amidst a global pandemic. In May, her care team delivered her baby Cayden by Caesarian section, then performed a radical hysterectomy the same day. In June, Colleen was declared cancer-free. Her story:

With what is believed to be the first test of its kind, Sunnybrook scientists have demonstrated a way to detect hearing disorders using a simple blood test: