Donate to Giving Tuesday 2022

Make 2X the difference this Giving Tuesday!

Taking place on November 29th, Giving Tuesday offers us a chance to work together to make an even greater difference for our dedicated health care teams and the patients who rely on them.

To further the impact of your giving, several members of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Partners in Care philanthropic family have stepped forward to match all gifts made on or before Giving Tuesday, up to a total of $50,000.

Your Giving Tuesday gift will help to fund the cutting-edge equipment, technology and facilities that our health care teams need to continue providing exceptional care to patients from across the province.

Let’s transform health care together this Giving Tuesday. Give and your gift will be matched!

Make your donation here.

$3M gift from Stephens family supports Withdrawal Management Centre

British Columbia is in the midst of a poisoned drug crisis. In the last nine months, more than 1,500 people died from poisoned illicit drug use in the province – the most deaths recorded by the province during this time period.

Currently, resources for substance use are available yet scattered and difficult to navigate for an already vulnerable population. This is why the Stephens family has donated $3M towards a new, purpose-built Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) Withdrawal Management Centre.

Nature’s Path co-founders Ratana and Arran Stephens

“Addiction touches everyone,” says Arran and Ratana Stephens, Co-Founders of Nature’s Path. “No one is immune, no race, or ethnicity. It does not matter whether you are rich or poor or educated. So many people in the world, and so many here in British Columbia are affected by addiction.”

“By helping to establish this Withdrawal Management Centre, we hope we will be able to make a difference in many lives, to give people an opportunity to move beyond their addiction.”

Ratana and Arran Stephens, Nature’s Path

The Withdrawal Management Centre will aggregate many of these resources currently distributed across Vancouver and put them under one roof. These resources will be interconnected, providing clients and their families with an improved treatment and support system, simplifying access to care. The goal is to make the Centre as accessible and comprehensive as possible.

“The Withdrawal Management Centre will be a leading addictions care facility that will bring together specialists, services and additional social supports in a culturally safe and welcoming environment. It will enable us to provide the best possible care for patients with substance use challenges and create space for recovery,” said Bob Chapman, Interim Vice President, Vancouver Community at Vancouver Coastal Health. “The poisoned drug crisis has taken a devastating toll on our communities. We are grateful for the Stephens family and VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation for their support of the Withdrawal Management Centre and the creation of a consolidated substance use treatment and recovery facility offering a symbol of hope for our community.”

VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation has raised over $5M in support of the Withdrawal Management Centre.

“Arran and Ratana Stephens have worked hard to build their lives and businesses on doing what they know to be the right thing to do, and this tremendously selfless gift is a continuation of that legacy,” says Angela Chapman, President & CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. “They are true visionaries, leading the way in giving to support people recovering from substance use, and de-stigmatizing this critical aspect of health care. Their generosity strengthens our community.”

The Withdrawal Management Centre is scheduled for completion in 2027. Philanthropic support will directly impact the quality of care at this centre.

“I know our donations have had an impact,” said the Stephens. “As a human being, you don’t live for yourself alone. Wherever there is a need, wherever you can make a difference, you must do so.”

Hockey coach’s life saved by his team

COVID-19: A nurse’s struggle to survive

Take care: four unexpected sources of mental health distress

Psychiatrist Dr. Cameron Anderson shares several unexpected sources of mental distress that when addressed can help your mental wellbeing

1. SOCIAL MEDIA AND NEWS INTAKE

COVID-19 and its related news are understandably the leading stories in news outlets and social media channels. Its impact is felt by all to varying degrees, and there’s a strong desire to keep on top of the latest developments.

However, when this is the majority of information we take in on a daily basis, it can cause mental distress. As the perception of threat increases, so do our bodily responses, including anxiety and worry.

Instead, Anxiety Canada recommends you try and limit how often you intake news about the pandemic (or any major news story) so that you can keep yourself informed while still maintaining your mental health. Commit to only checking in a couple times per day, set times to check in, disable news alerts, or rely on family and friends to provide major updates.

2. LACK OF SLEEP

We’ve all heard it before — sleep is important. It’s a tale backed by science, as it allows your brain to focus on important body responses, form new pathways for learning, remembering, and processing information, and rebuild your energy for the next day.

Lack of sleep is linked with a number of chronic diseases and conditions, including depression. This can become a cycle as lack of sleep creates stress during the day, which in turn contributes to further sleep troubles.

Try to commit to a consistent bedtime routine and minimize caffeine, watching TV or using the computer before bed.

3. STRESS

When you are stressed, your body responds as though you are in danger. It makes hormones speed up your heart, you breathe faster and you can experience sporadic bursts of energy.

Some stress is normal, however if stress happens too often or lasts too long, it can cause health problems.

It’s important to have positive coping responses to stress at the ready, as some strategies are not as helpful as others and some of our go-to supports — like social connection and routine — have been disrupted during the pandemic.

Positive responses include: listening to music, laughing or crying, taking a bath or showering, going out with a friend, doing creative activities, and many more.

4. INJURIES AND CONCUSSIONS

The connection between concussions and mental health is often overlooked. An estimated 25 per cent of mild traumatic brain injury patients develop a mental health condition such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder within three months of injury.

Concussions can be destructive, affecting the ways your body functions: your thinking, your emotions, your sleep. You may feel confused, have trouble remembering things, or generally feel sluggish and tired. Suddenly you can feel more emotional, sad, irritable, nervous or anxious. And it can directly impact your sleep, leading you to either have too little, too much, or none at all.

Receiving a diagnosis and treatment plan can greatly help patients recover. Seek help if you suspect you are suffering from this condition. Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) has created a concussion guide for adults to help you get started.

TAKE CARE

No one is perfect. We’re all facing our own challenges in our unique and nuanced ways during this global pandemic. Do what you can, and if you find yourself in need of a little more help, then try accessing some of the resources above.

This has been a challenging time, and it’s essential not to neglect your mental health. So please, take care. If you find yourself in need of additional support, click here to see our list of mental health resources

2021 Leadership Award Recipients: BC’s Health Care Workers

COVID-19 has impacted all of our lives. And not one of us has escaped the impacts.

Yet none bore the strain more than our health care stars — the heroes on the front lines who, despite knowing so little about this new and infectious disease, stepped bravely into our hospitals and health care centres to care for our most critically ill patients.

This is why VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is proud to grant 2021’s Leadership Award, presented by Odlum Brown, to BC’s Health Care Workers.

“I think we can all agree that health care workers are the stars of our health care system,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer. “They have continued to provide care, without pause or hesitation, to everyone who has been most in need — whether with COVID-19 or another illness.”

Dr. Henry bestowed the award at the 25th Night of a Thousand Stars gala, presented by B2Gold Corp., on October 22, 2021.

The Leadership Award recognizes individuals, families or organizations that are leaders in our health care system. Those who have made a significant contribution to our hospitals and health care centres, and who have made it their mission to transform health care and save lives.

“I can think of a no more deserving group to receive this year’s Leadership Award than BC’s Health Care Workers,” said Dr. Henry.

“I think the value of this award for all the health care workers in BC is really that level of acknowledgement. It’s a way to formally say you are all heroes. You have all gone above and beyond. And we appreciate you in ways we could never express.”
– Michelle de Moor, Interim Vice President, Vancouver Acute Services

Straight from the Stars

The Leadership Award is for all of BC’s Health Care Workers, including kitchen staff, housekeeping, volunteers nurses, doctors, administrators, and more, who each play a vital role in our health care system.

Here is what some of them had to say about receiving the award.

“I think that we’ve overcome a lot and it’s just great to be recognized,” says Ramie Locke, Registered Respiratory Therapist, who helped care for Jaclyn Robinson when she was severely sick with COVID-19 in the ICU. “I think just like the 7 o’clock cheers and the signs, they make us feel like we’ve been seen. The award does the same thing and shows that people recognize our dedication and recognize what we’ve been doing, and they’re grateful.”

“Knowing that we played a big role in this situation has been emotional,” says Lily Bucahan, housekeeper.

“In the midst of seeing the challenges of our staff, what you see is incredible acts of compassion, of heroism and creativity,” says Titus Wong, Regional Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control. “You want to say thank you, but it seems just not enough… just not enough.”

“It’s remarkable that people are getting through it, and all the departments are up and operational, and they deserve our thanks for that,” says volunteer Stuart de Vroome.

VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is proud to support all of BC’s Health Care Workers. Thank you for being there for us this, and every, year. Your dedication and commitment to helping those in need of complex and urgent care is inspiring, and we can think of no one group more deserving of this year’s award. Congratulations.

$1 million raised! Thank you for supporting our stars

On October 22, 2021, a passionate philanthropic community dedicated to the transformation of health care in BC raised an incredible $1 million at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s 25th Night of a Thousand Stars gala, presented by B2 Gold Corp.

In person and at home, hundreds of people from across BC celebrated our health care stars and raised vital funds to support the future of BC’s health care system.

These gifts fund groundbreaking research, recruit and train world-class health care workers, and equip them with the tools they need to save and improve lives. This will directly impact the future of health care at our hospitals and health care centres, creating a healthier tomorrow for all British Columbians.

“This year we are especially grateful to our community of supporters who have come together to celebrate our health care heroes and contribute to advancing the best health care in British Columbia.”
– Angela Chapman, President & CEO, VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation

We were honoured to have special guest Dr. Bonnie Henry present the 2021 Leadership Award to BC’s health care workers. And, we thank VGH nurse and grateful patient Jaclyn Robinson for sharing her inspirational story

“The community not only opened their wallets and gave generously to support the people, places and programs that make for the best health care in BC, they opened their hearts to let our medical stars know that we are truly grateful for the personal sacrifices and service they have rendered throughout this pandemic,” says Angela.

From each of us at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, thank you.

Take care: improve your mental and physical wellbeing

Life has been pretty challenging lately, hasn’t it?

These past 18 months, maybe even more, have been a struggle. Many individuals have had to give so much of themselves to try and navigate their way through this pandemic. Whether it has been from personal or professional experiences, the way our daily lives shifted has resulted in many increased feelings of stress and anxiety, and the results are still to come on what this has meant, and will mean, for our wellbeing.

That said, I think it is remarkable that so many of us are still caring for ourselves while taking care of others. Just don’t forget—you’re important. You matter. And sometimes it’s OK to take time for yourself.

Take a walk. Take a break. Take a moment. And if you find yourself needing a little more help, here are some research-based tips that can help improve your mental and physical wellbeing.

Get moving!

Exercise does wonders. It leads to new brain cells with better connectivity, improved mood, healthier weight management, better sleep, and a reduction in inflammation. You don’t need to take up cross-fit or train for a marathon to see the benefits ¬¬¬— daily walks or yoga sessions are a perfect way to get started.

Eat for your brain

Wholesome nutrition such as following the principles of the Mediterranean diet is another key component for wellbeing and can prevent or delay cognitive decline and possibly also Parkinson’s disease.

This means more greens and other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish and poultry and less butter, cheese, pastries, sweets, red meat and fried or fast foods.

Connect with your community

Connections with your friends, family and neighbours are key aspects to your mental health.

Social integration and community are crucial for happiness and longevity. So foster relationships with friends and family and reach out if you need help. Talking with a friend when you’re feeling down can have a profound impact. Likewise, helping others also has health benefits for the helper.

Keep learning

An active brain is a healthy brain. Learning or practicing new skills helps keep your mind sharp and can be a lot of fun. Whether it’s working on a craft project, becoming a puzzle master, or reading a new book, stretching your mental muscle every day is not only satisfying, it’s good for you!

Take a mindful moment

Mindfulness is the practice of purposefully focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgement. By immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and feelings of a particular moment you can improve your ability to focus, reduce stress and better manage anxiety and other mental health challenges.

Following these steps can help improve mental and physical wellbeing. But if you find yourself in need of additional support, click here for additional resources.

No one is perfect. We’re all facing our own challenges in our unique and nuanced ways during this global pandemic. Do what you can, and if you’re able to implement some of these steps into your day, then that’s wonderful.

Just remember above all to take care.

Spinal surgeon donates $1M to build ‘Living Lab’

Dr. Brian Kwon, Canada Research Chair in Spinal Cord Injury and Marcel Dvorak Chair in Spinal Trauma at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), has donated $1 million in award winnings to establish a “Living Lab” for spinal cord injury research and care, centred at VGH, UBC, and the Blusson Spinal Cord Centre.

“I believe a better future for injured patients is possible, and I see it in the work my colleagues and I are able to accomplish with the help of philanthropy,” says Dr. Kwon.

“This is why it was an easy choice for me to give back. This is bigger than me. This is about the future of spinal cord injury research and our vision for curing paralysis.”

Dr. Kwon received the inaugural Visionary Prize from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation for his distinctive contributions to the world of spinal cord injury (SCI). The $1 million prize specifically recognized Dr. Kwon’s global leadership, visionary science, landmark advances, and collaborative spirit to accelerate scientific and clinical progress in the SCI field.

Dr. Kwon decided to donate the entire award of $1 million to further fund the work he and his colleagues are undertaking, including helping to establish the “Living Lab” for spinal cord injury at VGH.

The “Living Lab” is a novel idea which aims to ensure that patients who suffer a catastrophic spinal cord injury and are brought to VGH have access to the most advanced treatments and cutting-edge research studies to maximize recovery. It also will enable patients to be part of the scientific discovery process that will enhance and inform novel personalized medicine approaches.

“The idea is to create a continuous cycle of care and research, to ensure that VGH remains at the forefront of spinal cord injury treatment for the benefit of all British Columbians,” says Dr. Kwon. “I think the system so far has allowed us to provide exemplary, state-of-the-art care. But I think that there is a lot that we can do to expand the opportunities for many more of our patients to be part of cutting-edge research studies and receive novel therapeutic approaches”.

“We have to change the centuries-old story of spinal cord injury,” he says. “Instead of accepting permanent paralysis after SCI, we must work towards a future where the application of scientific innovation can restore these patients to full physical function.”

Dr. Kwon’s $1 million donation to support this vision is part of a larger drive to bring in and nurture the next generation of spinal cord injury experts at VGH, allowing British Columbians to be the first to benefit from their clinical breakthroughs.

“It’s absolutely worth the investment,” adds Dr. Kwon. “It’s about fast-tracking cutting-edge research and pushing hard to make it beneficial for patients.”

VGH is a centre for excellence in spinal cord injury research and treatment, and cares for the most complex spinal conditions in patients, no matter where they are in B.C.

Learn more about Dr. Brian Kwon’s research