The Living Proof CANADIAN TRANSPLANT ASSOCIATION ISSUE #42

IN THIS ISSUE

Rocky Mountaineer Train For Heroes Tribute to a Transplant Surgeon Kaidyn’s Dream Addison’s Story BOARD OF DIRECTORS In this Issue CTA President’s Report for 2014

President – Aubrey Goldstein [email protected] CTA President’s Report for 2014...... 3 Aubrey Goldstein, MD CTA President

Past President – Dave Smith CTA-BC New Year’s Report...... 4 The CTA had a very good year in 2014. Much was only during the years the Games are on. Subsequently, we [email protected] Ontario Report...... 5 accomplished by your Board. We welcomed new members have decided to move toward a two year format to in order to to the Executive. These included Bianca Segatto as our Vice maintain membership levels. Vice-President (West) – Jennifer Holman CTA Saskatchewan...... 6 [email protected] President for Eastern Canada, and Mike Sullivan as our new At the Moncton Games we announced that Toronto Alberta Provincial Updates...... 7 Treasurer. Both have played significant roles in improving had won the bid for the 2016 CTG. The Ontario bid Vice-President (East) – Bianca Segatto Rocky Mountaineer Train For Heroes...... 8 the areas of their responsibility. Bianca in helping to unify committee, originally led by Richard Ayuen has been [email protected] Tribute to my Kidney Transplant Surgeon – our approach to Transplant Trot events across the country, hard at work organising the event sites, accommodations, Treasurer – Michael Sullivan Dr. William Lakey...... 12 and Mike in coordinating our financial reporting and tax arranging for meals, and transportation, among other [email protected] receipts. In 2015 we will have the ability to provide tax Games requirements. I’m sure all of you will want to join Kaidyn’s Dream...... 13 receipts at events in every province thanks to Mike’s efforts. us in Toronto for what promises to be the biggest Canadian Secretary – Robert Sallows Chaussez-vous pour le foie / Lace up for live 2014...... 14 [email protected] Speaking of the Transplant Trot, we had an increase Transplant Games we’ve ever held. The Marilyn Denis show celebrates Everyday Heroes...... 15 in these events across the country and all of them were Requests were put out for application to fill positions on Membership Director – Neil Folkins successful in raising awareness of organ and tissue donations the Board in September 2014. We were fortunate to have a Part of a Team...... 16 [email protected] while raising funds for our future work. In the coming year good number of applications for open positions on the Board. Team Manager – Niva Segatto Heart Recipients Meet doing a Commercial we know that more of these events are planned for new cities The review committees for these applications have met, [email protected] for The Heart & Stroke Foundation...... 17 and towns. Should you wish to hold one in your area please discussed and interviewed the top candidates and gave their CTA National Treasurers Report...... 17 contact us at [email protected]. suggestions to the Executive at our December meeting. Our The 2014 Canadian Transplant Games were held in incoming Secretary for 2015 (2 year term renewable twice for Addison’s Story...... 18 PROVINCIAL DIRECTORS Moncton, New Brunswick. Monique McTeirnan Black and all Board/Executive positions) is Robert Sallows. The new Toronto to Host the Next Canadian Diane Stacey co-chaired a tremendously successful event. Alberta Provincial Director is Shawna Rivait. The new Team British Columbia – Margaret Benson Transplant Games in 2016...... 19 The Opening Ceremonies provided a wonderful start to Manager is Niva Segatto. I want to thank Kathy Tachynski [email protected] the week, the events were held at top quality venues, the for 17 years of work on our Board, most of it as Secretary. Alberta – Shauna Rivait Closing Ceremonies and Gala were a delight. During the She’s promised to help Rob get up to speed with this very [email protected] week we enjoyed a special comedy evening featuring Mike important job. Tara Brady had been our Team Manager and McDonald, a well-known Canadian comic who recently Saskatchewan – Phil Gleim she did a fantastic job in Durban, South Africa. She had help [email protected] had a liver transplant. He uses his talents to speak about his from a number of great volunteers as there is no way one 20th World Transplant Games, transplant and the need for organ and tissue donation. The person can attend all event venues, meetings (usually twice Ontario – Sandra Holdsworth , Argentina 2015 people and city of Moncton welcomed us with open arms a day) and meet with all the team members who require [email protected] and many of us got to see the beauty of the area during our information about event venue locations and times of buses, The Officers and Councillors of the World Quebec – Gaston Martin time between events and as part of scheduled family events where to get health and injury assistance, and on and on. [email protected] Transplant Games Federation are pleased to run by the Local Organising Committee. I don’t mind Tara did an amazing job for all the Canadian participants. announce that the 20th World Transplant repeating that it was a very successful event. The Executive and the Board meet on an alternate monthly Atlantic – Mark Black Games will be held in Mar del Plata, Argentina [email protected] Your CTA Board met for two days prior to the Games. basis. Should you have any questions for the Executive or from 23rd to 30th August 2015. We discussed many different issues the CTA is facing in the Board please check the website for their email address and coming years and our business plan. The most significant feel free to contact any one of us. We need your input and issues are the cost of running the CTA and the low assistance as we are true volunteers. We each have family membership considering the number of people transplanted and work responsibilities in addition to our CTA positions. every year. I discussed these issues at the Annual General Please look for updates on our website and official Facebook Meeting and Mike Sullivan, our National Treasurer provided page. If you have time to volunteer on the Board, we are a financial update to those attending our AGM. One of the still looking for provincial Directors for Manitoba, Québec, We acknowledge and thank all who supplied photos ways we hope to deal with the financial crunch we’re facing Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador. for the Living Proof. is to have two year memberships. It seems that the years in From my family to yours, all the best of health and between Games people let their memberships go renewing happiness in 2015 and beyond. Publication Mail Agreement Number: 40033698

3 CTA-BC New Year’s Report Ontario Report

Submitted by Margaret Benson Submitted by Sandra Holdsworth, Provincial Director

Also at the Trot, BC’s 2014 youth celebrating the gift of life. It also gave The Ontario Division of the Canadian to help send donor families to the Trillium Gift of Life Network, the award winner, double heart transplant me an appreciation for the wonderful Transplant Association has been very Transplant Games. We have also Minister of Health, local hospitals, recipient, Robbie Thompson, was people who made the greatest decision busy over the last few years developing held other events, like the London other awareness groups, and others presented with the award by 3 year-old one can make – to donate their organs our Board and building relationships Major Baseball Game Day, Zumba committed to promoting organ Addison MacArthur-Yong, a fellow and save lives. It’s a narrative of the with various stakeholders. Dance event as well as Lawn donation. By doing so, we have heart transplant recipient and new CTA giver and the gifted as much as it is an We have a full Executive & Washer Toss Training for those developed many new relationships and member. It was truly a magical day. athletic experience, and we will forever Committee in place as well as a full who attended the Games in Moncton interest in not only the mission of the We are well on our way organizing be thankful for our organ donor’s board, which includes, a Donor last summer. Canadian Transplant Association, but this year’s Trot, Sunday, April 12th at selfless gift. The transplant games are Family Liaison, Parent Liaison & We sent a full team to Moncton, also the Transplant Games. This has 10am and looking forward to an even one big family reunion. It doesn’t matter Youth Liaison. These positions were with 51 athletes, including 15 youth been demonstrated by the many new more successful event. what organ transplant one has received; put in place to help us better liaise and 82 supporters. Ontario made athletes we had attend the games in CTA-BC members are always the struggles and health challenges we with members, to connect with them up most of the attendees and came Moncton and the number of people honoured to participate in a number experienced were the same. and to see what their vision and home with many medals and wonderful interested in the 2016 Canadian of BC Transplant sponsored events. The games were phenomenal. They goals are for the organization and to memories. Transplant Games. Representing the recipients of BC, had that small town feel to them, where increase awareness of Organ & Tissue This past November, we hosted our The 2016 Canadian Transplant to thank and acknowledge donor and you feel welcome not as a participant Donation in Ontario. Annual Awards Afternoon, where Games will be our main focus for donor families, we had a presence at but as a member of the family and it We have been very successful with we presented the Provincial Youth the remainder of 2015 and 2016. 2014 showed great success for CTA-BC General Hospital’s Pastoral was great seeing familiar faces and two of our Transplant Trot events, Award in Memory of Thomas Quinet We plan to hold fundraisers for the – we saw a rise in members, many new Care organ donor memorial service. new ones. From the opening ceremony, the London Trot in Memory of Leslie (awarded to Ryley Mitchell) the Leslie Games. Many of our board members family members, more participation in Some of our members attended the through all of the athletic events, to the Petter and the Waterloo Trot. Last Petter Memorial Award (awarded to are on the Executive Committee a wider variety of events throughout Heart Home annual Christmas party evening festivities after the games (I’m year we held our first event in Bruce Devan Cruickshanks) and the Victor for the Games as well as the Local the province and we even have the and the 90th anniversary celebration thinking Karaoke night), to the trip Grey, and we have plans to hold more Davis Memorial Award (awarded to Organizing Committee. The Games development of an offshoot CTA-BC of the Jewish Women’s Association of to Shediac and the closing gala, this in Brantford, and the Toronto & Donna Fleming & Team Transplant). are CTA’s main platform for us chapter in Nanaimo. Vancouver. was one memorable trip for me. I have Ottawa areas. We are very proud of all the recipients to showcase the success of organ Our largest event and most CTA-BC continues to have a strong competed in sports internationally, and We are also hosting the 5th Annual and nominees. donation & transplantation and we are financially successful, the Transplant presence in the dragon boat community I must say the 2014 Moncton Games Table Tournament in honour Recently, our focus has been looking forward to hosting the games Trot, saw over 400 participants, with the Gift of Life and O2P teams. experience ranks up there in my book. of Jonathon Talbot, with funds raised on developing relationships with in Toronto in 2016. 25 volunteers, 43 sponsors and six Some members have joined highly Thank you Moncton organizing transplant related booths on site. competitive teams and traveled to the committee and volunteers! Well done! Starting with a Zumba warm-up, then USA and overseas representing the See you in Toronto in 2016.” We sent a full team to a proclamation of National Organ and transplant community. Team BC echoes Jun’s statements Tissue Donation Week (NOTDAW) Another highlight for some CTA-BC and thanks Moncton for the relaxed Moncton, with 51 athletes, for the city of Burnaby by Mayor members was the National Transplant atmosphere of the games and we loved including 15 youth and Corrigan, announcements of all the Games in Moncton, NB. BC sent all the special touches added to each 82 supporters. Ontario cities and towns in BC also proclaiming 13 athletes, two of whom were youth and every day. made up most of the NOTDAW and finally Gift of Life and many wonderful supporters. For CTA-BC continues to be a strong pins presented to living donors and a small group we represented BC well part of the community and we look attendees and came home donor families in attendance, the Trot taking home 38 medals in total. As Jun forward to creating new projects in with many medals and officially started. The 5 & 8-kilometer Burnandas, one of our athletes states: 2015 such as a summer BBQ , bowling wonderful memories. walk/run went on without a hitch “I went to New Brunswick with the nights and a Transplant evening with each participant receiving a CTA mindset that I’d be seeing familiar celebration in the fall. Best wishes embossed chocolate medallion as they friendly faces and experiencing to all our transplant communities crossed the finish line. the camaraderie of kindred souls throughout Canada.

4 5 CTA Saskatchewan Alberta Provincial Updates

Submitted by Phil Gleim, CTA Saskatchewan Provincial Director Submitted by Jennifer Holman, VP - West

Head Equipment, and 33rd Street into Saskatchewan Schools. This The year 2014 was a busy one for CTA- We held an election late in 2014 Executive. We expect an exciting Automotive. A profit of $4,400 was committee is being led by Transplant Alberta. Since April’s implementation and we are very pleased to introduce year for our Calgary, Edmonton and raised for the CTA. Surgeon, Dr. Mike Moser, who was of the Alberta Organ and Tissue Shauna Rivait, our new Provincial Lloydminster committees and we look Our final fundraiser of the year part of the group in Ontario who Donation Registry, more than 60,000 Director. And we are proud to be the forward to continuing our collaboration was a raffle. All prizes were donated ultimately succeeded in making Organ Albertans have registered their intent first province to formalize a structure with Alberta Health as the provincial which included a hot air balloon ride and Tissue Donation Awareness to donate on-line at myhealth.alberta. for regional groups to function Donation Agency begins to take shape for two; a night for two at the Sheraton compulsory in Ontario Schools. ca and in provincial registry offices. independently in their local areas over the coming months. Cavalier Hotel in Saskatoon; and a To date we have had a number of That number continues to grow by under the direction of the Provincial $100 gift card to Earls Restaurant. meetings, including one with a High approximately 10,000 names each 2014 was a very busy and rewarding This fundraiser generated a profit of School Principal in Saskatoon. A month. We collaborate with the year for CTA Saskatchewan. We just over $2,000. teacher in his school has volunteered registry associations to get the word began the year by holding our annual The highlight of the year for many to include the introductory unit into out to Albertans about the registry and steak night at David’s Restaurant and of us was our participation in the CTA his Grade 11 Christian Ethics Class. the important need for donors. We are Lounge in Saskatoon. Approximately Games which were held in Moncton, We ended 2014 with a Christmas enhancing our partnerships with other 170 people attended, helping us to NB in early July. Approximately 30 Social at a Saskatoon Restaurant. organizations interested in organ and realize a profit of $3,300. people from CTA Saskatchewan Nearly everyone in our CTA tissue donation and with community In April we set up an awareness attended the games. This included Saskatchewan Membership attended. and corporate groups including Servus table and sold 50/50 tickets at a athletes as well as friends and family We enjoyed a turkey supper with Credit Union, WestJet and Rotary Saskatoon Auction. On May 11th members. Everyone was treated to a all the trimmings and then a gift Clubs. Calgary and Edmonton both just under 200 runners and walkers wonderful week of friendly competition exchange. 2014 was a wonderful year hosted very successful Transplant joined us at our annual Transplant and maritime hospitality. for CTA Saskatchewan. I would like Trot events, raising awareness with Trot which was held along the Following the games, three members to take this opportunity to thank our advertisements, with hundreds of banks of the Saskatchewan River in of CTA Saskatchewan volunteered to membership for all their hard work participants and volunteers and by Saskatoon. Major sponsors included be part of a committee whose goal is to and commitment to promoting organ engaging local businesses as race SIGA, Montana Construction, TH incorporate the province of Ontario’s and tissue donation awareness in sponsors. Funds raised have supported a Vac Services, Wheaton Pontiac, Red “One Life Many Gifts” curriculum Saskatchewan. number of creative initiatives to further our awareness activities including: Upcoming 2015 Events • 4X8 foot signs in more than 20 2015 promises to be another active year beginning with our recent meetings include hosting an awareness Barbeque hockey/sport arenas and at major our annual Steak Night. This year we are changing things at a Sobey’s Store, setting up an awareness booth and 50/50 highway intersections up by holding a rib night at Tomas the Cook Restaurant in draw at Adesa Auctions, and perhaps running a second • “Health Renewed” posters for Saskatoon on Monday, January 26th. In addition to raffle lottery. In addition to fundraising events we hope to plan at arenas, libraries, shopping areas prizes and a 50/50 draw, we have two donated quilts for a least one social event, probably our annual Christmas Social. • Bridge banners silent auction, and one of our CTA Members and his band Our “One Life Many Gifts” committee will continue to • Edmonton K-Days Parade entry to entertain us with their music. meet as we move forward in our goal to have all students • Information displays at Farmer’s Our largest event of the year, the Saskatoon Transplant in Saskatchewan exposed to information on organ and Markets, Volunteer and Trade Fairs Trot, is scheduled for Sunday, May 10th at 10am at Victoria tissue donation awareness. We will continue to work closely • Awareness Kits and presentations Park in Saskatoon. Transplant recipients as well as organ with the Saskatchewan Transplant Program to promote • Rocky Mountaineer Train of donors and organ donor families will participate at no cost. organ and tissue donation awareness to the general public Heroes sponsorship A group from Moose Jaw is hosting a second Transplant and to provide Saskatchewan Transplant Recipients with • Credit card protection sleeves Trot in Saskatchewan this year. The Moose Jaw event is information on the Canadian Transplant Association. that include our logo scheduled for May 31st in the Wakamow Valley. Finally, we continue to seek opportunities to promote our • Edmonton Corporate Challenge Other smaller fundraising events that we have discussed at organization and its goals through local media and events. sponsorship

6 7 It was the opportunity of a lifetime and for many it truly was heroes were each unique and wonderful – the candor and Rocky Mountaineer Train For Heroes a life-changing journey. As stated in the opening quotes it openness with which they shared their stories has truly made was an incredible trip, one, none of them will forget. an impact. We are incredibly grateful and will remain fans of Submitted by Margaret Benson, BC Provincial Director and double lung transplant recipient Donor Family Network Trustees, Nigel and Sue Burton your organization always. stated “We were overwhelmed to be chosen to represent UK Our heroes showed us what resilience, positivity and donor families. The trip was amazing. The train journey gave strength truly are. I was personally profoundly impacted by all of the families the opportunity to meet, share their stories, the trip and have made changes as a result of the journey. I feel laugh and cry together. We met some wonderful people, saw blessed to have met our Canadian families and experienced some fantastic places and were treated like heroes by Rocky this journey alongside such courageous individuals.”

“Following the trip, which was easily one of the most touching and inspirational journeys of my lifetime, I was inspired to try and get others in my circle of friends/associates to register to be organ donors. My big takeaway is that EVERY registrant makes a difference” — Jeff Pelletier, Rocky Mountaineer Communications Specialist

Mountaineer”. Nigel and Sue lost their 16-year-old son, I felt honoured to be part of this amazing journey and to Martin, in 2003. They met their son’s heart recipient Marc, represent not only the Canadian Transplant Association, the day before the train trip began. Sue said, “Meeting Marc but also organ donor recipients. The trip reminded me of the was such an honour. It comforts me to know that, like us, transplant games, but on a smaller scale. Fourteen families they think of Martin every day. It was a very emotional and their supporters, employees of Rocky Mountaineer moment when we first met and a very special moment when and film crews arrived at the Rocky Mountaineer train Marc took my hand and placed it over his heart. It is strange station unaware of what was to happen in the next few days. to think that Martin’s heart is still beating but we remember Through tears, laughter, hugs and deep conversations, we him with pride because of that and we wish Marc a long, left the train with a sense of peace, a true feeling of making a happy and healthy future.” difference in other people’s lives and of being one big, happy Donor families were honored for their courage, spirit in family. Thank you to all the families, the four representing the face of adversity, and commitment to raising awareness organizations and to Rocky Mountaineer for making this for the global need for organ and tissue donation. A series trip a life-changing journey. “Powerful and moving. Our Life Changing Train for In September the Rocky Mountaineer Train for Heroes of 4 videos, produced by Rock Mountaineer, Heroes trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer was pure magic. welcomed twelve organ donor related families. In vividly illustrates some of the challenges Meeting other recipients, donor families and a living donor attendance were 10 donor family members, 9 recipients, 1 and joys of this complex issue. One video was a beautiful affirmation of the power of organ donation. living donor and their families. They came from Canada, featured a Canadian donor family, the I actually get goose bumps when I reflect upon our few days Australia, USA and the UK to travel from Vancouver to Talbot’s who suffered a tragic loss when together.” Elaine Yong (Mother of heart recipient, Addison Lake Louise, representing: Transplant Sport (UK), Chris their son, Jonathon, was fatally injured in and Global news reporter) Klug Foundation (USA), Transplant Australia (Australia) a motor vehicle accident. In that moment, “Following the trip, which was easily one of the most and Canadian Transplant Association (Canada). The Life they made a selfless decision that gave life touching and inspirational journeys of my lifetime, I Changing Train for Heroes programme was developed to to four others. See their incredible story and was inspired to try and get others in my circle of friends/ honour everyday heroes who have made a significant impact watch the Talbot’s experience onboard the associates to register to be organ donors. My big takeaway on the lives of others, recognize the families who have train. Learn more about the 2014 heroes at: is that EVERY registrant makes a difference” Jeff Pelletier supported them and raise awareness of the organizations www.rockymountaineer.com/heroes (Rocky Mountaineer Communications Specialist) which continue to assist them. Randy Powell, CEO of Rocky Shannon Kidd (Rocky Mountaineer The CTA was given an incredible opportunity to be part Mountaineer said, “We are delighted to show our gratitude Senior Management Communications of the second annual Rocky Mountaineer Train for Heroes. to our selected heroes by giving them the opportunity to director) said, “Rocky Mountain was Rocky Mountaineer dedicated the 2014 train to organ and experience the magic onboard our rail journeys, where they inspired by and grateful to the CTA for tissue donor heroes in hopes of creating worldwide awareness will share time with loved ones over two uninterrupted days their incredible support of our 2014 Life to encourage everyone to register as organ donors. through some of the most stunning scenery in the world.” Changing Train for Heroes. Our Canadian

8 9

Tribute to my Kidney Transplant Surgeon – Kaidyn’s Dream Dr. William Lakey Submitted by Tammy Blair Submitted by Kathy Tachynski, Kidney Transplant Recipient (August, 1991) you can not only be healthy and active On April 26 2003, we received the call that changed our after transplant but can surpass all The kidney and greater organ transplant community lost a — his warm smile and expectations. great champion the day Dr. William (Bill) Lakey passed caring ways remained lives. A hero said “yes”. Kaidyn received his miracle, his Kaidyn is active in organ donation away. I was honored to have been asked to speak at Dr. constant. He always gift of life – a new liver. We will forever be grateful to the awareness. He shares his story locally Lakey’s funeral service and CTA was one of his chosen took an interest to see family that chose to give our son a second chance. I will and through social media (see YouTube charitable organizations for memorial donations because he how I was doing too never forget the first time Kaidyn opened his eyes after video: Kaidyn’s Dream). Kaidyn has truly believed in organ donation awareness. which meant so much accomplished so much in his short life. Dr. Lakey changed the lives of countless Albertans, to me. I was always transplant; they were so sparkling white, breathtaking. In the two years since Kaidyn began including my own, I will forever be grateful to him for his pleased to be able to let speaking, Essex, Ontario, our home part in making my gift of life a reality. My special connection him know how many On April 24, 2002 in Windsor, miracle, his gift of life – a new liver. We town increased over 11% in registered with Dr. Lakey began just over 23 years ago. After 6 ½ years years (and months) Ontario, our first son was born. We will forever be grateful to the family that donors. I am so proud to listen as he on dialysis, I received the gift of life through organ donation. it had been since my named him Kaidyn meaning fighter, chose to give our son a second chance. commands his audience’s attention and I was blessed to have an extraordinarily-talented surgeon kidney transplant, not yet knowing that his namesake I will never forget the first time Kaidyn shares his story while promoting organ lead a team through my life-changing kidney transplant. which always made him would stand for everything he was. opened his eyes after transplant; they donation. Always starting his speech The first memory I can still recall so vividly, is resting smile. Kaidyn was born 6lbs 3ozs, perfect were so sparkling white, breathtaking. the same; “I have a dream that no in my hospital room post-transplant. Dr. Lakey stopped The gift of life I received through organ donation and yet not healthy. He was born with a Since his transplant, Kaidyn has child, mother, father or loved one will in to ask how I was feeling and to check and see how my Dr. Lakey’s talents in transplantation inspired me to do liver disease called Biliary Atresia. soared. He has this over abundant ever have to die waiting for a lifesaving new kidney was doing. He was so calm, soft-spoken and more in promoting organ donation awareness so that others Biliary Atresia is a congenital absence zest for life and excels at sports. transplant.” It is beyond rewarding, it is had such a gentle nature about him. From that moment, I could have a chance like I did. He performed the first or closure of the major bile ducts, the Kaidyn has competed at 4 Canadian a privilege to watch as he impacts those could tell what a genuinely caring and compassionate doctor kidney transplant in Western Canada in 1967, and with over ducts that drain bile from the liver. Transplant Games (Windsor, Quebec around him. Kaidyn is a leader, athlete, he was. It was a simple gesture he made, stopping by each 2600 kidney transplants done to date in the Renal Most people dream of what their baby City, Calgary, and Moncton) and at ambassador for organ donation, but day of my 10-day hospitalization, but that simple gesture Transplant Program at the University of Alberta Hospital in would someday become but our dreams the in Durban, South above all, our hero. brought the world of comfort to me and my family, knowing Edmonton, Dr. Lakey’s dedication, compassion and caring were much different. We dreamt that I was in such good hands. for patients continues. he would live. That someone in their The first Christmas following my transplant, I wrote a Shortly after my transplant, I became involved with the time of sorrow would be generous and “I can accept failure, but I can’t accept not trying” Christmas card to Dr. Lakey to thank him for what he Canadian Transplant Association and when we eventually kind. That a perfect stranger would give had done for me and making that first Christmas with hosted the Canadian Transplant Games in Edmonton in our child the only thing we couldn’t… ­— Kaidyn’s favourite quote my new kidney the best gift I could have ever received. 2006, I was touched to see Dr. Lakey attend the opening the gift of life. I was pleasantly surprised to receive a Christmas card in ceremonies. It was a proud moment and joyous reunion as I At 3 months old Kaidyn had the mail a short time later signed Bill and Shirley. For introduced him to many people that day, and for my family exploratory surgery in hopes of Africa bringing home many medals and years afterwards, we would exchange Christmas cards to see him again after so many years. performing a procedure to bypass establishing world records in ball throw and I’d keep them posted on what my kidney transplant I shared Dr. Lakey’s picture with a friend who had blocked liver ducts to prevent liver and long jump. Kaidyn was awarded had enabled me to do and see in life. I would learn about never seen or met him before. He replied back saying “his damage, but this could not be performed the Ontario Youth Award in Memory their travels and/or Christmas plans with their children face shows goodness”. It was such a simple statement, but as cirrhosis had set in. Subsequently, of Thomas Quinet in 2013 and went on and grandchildren who they cherished. The love of family embodied so much of Dr. Lakey and all that he did in his Kaidyn was listed for transplant. We to win the National Youth Award in was so very clear in their cards, which was heartwarming. life, and all that he stood for as a human being. watched and waited knowing that soon Moncton. He was also very honoured It again reiterated how genuine a person Dr. Lakey really I am thankful for Dr. Lakey being a special person and Kaidyn would become very ill. Our son to receive the “Outstanding Youth was — not only as a professional, but as a loving husband, having a positive impact in my life. May you rest in peace deteriorated into a frail 13lb 1 year old Athlete Award” in South Africa for his father and grandfather. and know your goodness, compassion and caring ways, and before our eyes, fighting to live. accomplishments at the games. Kaidyn While attending university, I would walk over to the warm smile will forever be remembered. You will always be On April 26 2003, we received is the first Canadian to bring home this hospital for bloodwork or appointments and from time to a special part of my life and my family’s for the gift of life the call that changed our lives. A special award. He is always striving time would have the pleasure of bumping into Dr. Lakey you made reality through kidney transplantation. hero said “yes”. Kaidyn received his and accomplishing more, proving that

12 13 Chaussez-vous pour le foie The Marilyn Denis show celebrates Lace up for live 2014 Everyday Heroes

Submitted by Lyne Pelletier Submitted by Joanna Mitchell

Quand j’ai vu l’annonce de l’événement course près d’une Allemande avec qui même passion pour la course. Il n’y a On December 15, 2014 I was invited «Chaussez-vous pour le foie» dans le j’ai échangé quelques mots entre deux pas de cause commune, chacun court to speak at our local YMCA about bulletin d’information de la Fondation points d’eau. Quand je croise le fil pour ce en quoi il croit! L’organisation my daughter Ryley’s heart transplant canadienne pour le foie, je me suis dit d’arrivée, le soleil se lève sur l’océan est parfaite, les participants sont logés story. At the YMCA I was asked to que c’était justement le projet qui me et j’ai le sentiment d’avoir accompli de dans des hôtels avec forfaits tout inclus. wait until the group was ready for manquait et qui me sortirait d’une belles choses. Des activités sont organisées et tous les me. Once they were, my sister, who année difficile. Les décès rapprochés de L’atmosphère ressemble à celle des participants finissent par sympathiser, accompanied me, and I walked up the mes parents ces deux dernières années Jeux mondiaux des greffés, des gens de se comprendre et apprécier le bonheur stairs but instead of speaking about m’ont beaucoup affectée, j’ai parfois eu partout dans le monde qui partagent la de vivre. organ donation awareness, I was faced l’impression qu’une partie de moi était with a camera crew, my husband, morte avec eux! Je me suis donc inscrite grandma, and members of the YMCA. et ainsi engagée à lever des fonds The speaking engagement was a ruse pour la Fondation en échange d’une to ambush me for a makeover on The participation au Reggae Marathon à Marilyn Denis Show on CTV. My Negril en Jamaïque. wonderful grandma emailed the show Pour réaliser mon projet, j’ai fait appel explaining the volunteer work I do à mon entourage tant pour récolter raising awareness for organ donation. des dons que pour me construire un I was chosen as an Everyday Hero and programme d’entraînement qui me given a makeover on the show. My permettrait de courir 10km. Ces deux husband, Jeff, who I would not be able volets de mon projet se sont si bien to do all of my volunteer work without, colours from my window. Thursday reveal. As if a makeover, two nights at déroulés que le 5 décembre je me suis orchestrated the ambush. morning I was able to order room a luxurious hotel and a few days away retrouvée sur un vol en direction de la That afternoon, the camera crew service breakfast for the first time from the kids wasn’t enough, there Jamaïque! came to our home and filmed us talking in my life. That afternoon we took was a big surprise at the end. We La course a eu lieu tôt le samedi Un peu avant le départ avec Betty Esperanza de la Fondation canadienne du foie. about our organ donation story. Two “before” photos, followed by a hair also received the many gifts that were matin. En fait, pour éviter que les days later, I left for Toronto for three consultation at the famous Civello given out during The Marilyn Denis participants ne souffrent de la chaleur, days. The first day was spent shopping Salon. That evening, my husband Jeff Show holiday giveaways. le départ est donné à 5h15, il fait at Bayview Village mall for my new joined me and we enjoyed a lovely I feel so honoured to have been toujours nuit. Une foule d’environ 1000 outfit along with two other amazing dinner out with no children! chosen for this experience. There are so coureurs qui s’activent en même temps, ladies that were also chosen for the Early Friday morning we went to the many volunteers that work so hard and c’est très impressionnant. Il y a en a show. Shannon, from Edmonton, studio, the first part was spent trying deserve it just as much. The makeover qui ont de l’expérience et qui feront had fostered over 72 children and on the outfits that had been chosen and gifts were fun, but the best part la plus longue distance 42km, je les Cyndi, from Ontario, was a quadruple for us, rehearsing for the show and was having organ donation brought admire. Personnellement, comme c’est amputee. These were truly inspiring preparing for hair and makeup. Then to the forefront across Canada. And ma première participation à ce genre women and I feel blessed to have had the show went live and the Canadian really, I am not the hero, it is the donor d’événement, j’ai choisi le 10km. Dès le this opportunity to meet them and audience got to meet our family and families, like the one that saved the life début de la course, je cherche à accorder hear their stories! hear transplant Ryley’s story. After the of my daughter Ryley that are heroes. mon rythme à celui d’un autre coureur After many hours of filming and “before” segment, it was whirlwind We hope that by sharing Ryley’s story, devant moi pour qu’il m’entraîne dans shopping, we returned to our hotel of hair, makeup and putting on the we can encourage others to register as son sillage. C’est un truc que m’a donné and I enjoyed a wonderful night with makeover outfits. Before we knew it, organ donors, talk about their wishes une amie et ça marche. Je termine la Ma médaille de participation a view of the CN tower changing we were walking out for the “after” and in turn, more lives will be saved.

14 15 Part of a Team Heart Recipients Meet doing a Commercial for The Heart & Stroke Foundation Submitted by Heather Hockley to Trail to see my Nephrologist and Submitted by Scott Ouellette & Dave Allingham team of specialists. Dr. Zhang would come in during the appointment and Scott Ouellette received a heart getting to be in the commercial but diligently go over the results making transplant in August 2008 after heart getting to do it with my wife made the sure everything was good. It is these attack at age 28. He married Amy on experience that much better. I have a professionals that kept me going his 1 year anniversary of his transplant. better appreciation for the work that through my dialysis, they were there Scott has competed in the 2011 World goes into a commercial. Meeting Dave in the beginning and they continue to Transplant Games in Sweden and won was a great treat. It is always great to be there for me today. 3 gold 1 bronze at the 2012 Canadian meet another person who knows what You know who I am talking about, Transplant Games in Calgary. Scott you’ve been through. The biggest thrill the nurse that checks your vitals, and is an avid golfer and was the winner was getting the messages and emails calls to see how you are doing, in my of 2013 Alberta Mid Handicap after friends and family seen it on TV. the good work the Heart and Stroke case this is Teresa. The dietitian, who championship. Scott has done “I love to challenge myself through Foundation does. The research they tried to get me to eat more bananas, numerous talks for medical staff, donor sport. I never thought that my heart funded at Toronto General Hospital I kept telling her the only way I was families, and others. He was honoured would stop me in my tracks. Who changed the direction of my life, going to eat more bananas was with to be asked to be in the Heart & Stoke knew that after all those years of and that of my family. I am just so ice cream and chocolate sauce. Cindy Lottery Commercial. being a super fit guy that I would be happy I am here and able to be active would just shake her head and follow It was a unbelievable experience to diagnosed with a life-threatening heart and cycle with my amazing kids” — up on the next appointment. And then work on a real commercial. Not only arrhythmia. I cannot say enough about Dave Allingham there is Connie, my social worker and friend, she was there to listen and offer CTA National Treasurers Report suggestions and when I hosted my first Kidney Foundation Golf tournament she was there to partake even though Submitted by Michael Sullivan, CTA National Treasurer she was not an avid golfer. Left to right: Connie, Heather, Teresa, Cindy, the Transplant Clinic Team in Trail B.C. In 2012 I travelled to Calgary for Since assuming the position of National Treasurer there now has the ability to issue receipts to a financial donor on the my first Transplant Games and met have been some changes that have taken place, some will be spot. If you are hosting a Transplant Trot or any other CTA Wow do I ever feel lucky I have some months as doctors monitored my lab a wonderful new group of friends and obvious to our members and others will not. related event, official receipts can now be issued directly. amazing team members! After being work and ensure my new kidney was am a proud member of Team B.C., First let’s talk about the obvious changes. The Board A budget for 2014-2015 has been proposed to the Board on dialysis for 3 years I was surprised working fine. you guys are awesome! The 2014 decided to implement a two year membership fee replacing of Directors for approval. The budget will be made available to receive the call that would forever My team of doctors and nurses made Transplant games at Moncton were the annual fee, which was presented at the AGM. It was noted to all Provincial Director’s and they will arrange to forward change my life. me feel comfortable in a city where I amazing, I really connected with more that the year of the transplant games membership increased a copy should any members request it. Presented is a balance I was at work when I received knew no one yet never felt alone. My athletes and supporters and boy do due to our members participating in the games. This left a sheet for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2014, a provincial the call that a donor kidney was family, partner and two boys were a those Maritimers know how to throw financial void in the off years where in fact memberships were breakdown is also available upon request. found for me, it was a call that great team of supporters calling me a party. My sister travelled with me lower causing a shortfall in revenue. It is important to note Balance Sheet (as of October 31, 2014) everyone waiting for a transplant can faithfully and coming to visit when to Moncton for encouragement and that although we are changing to a two year membership understand. I didn’t know whether to they could. I felt great, I was able to support she is a great cheerleader and format, the rates remained the same and we continue to offer Current Assets Total 2014 Total 2013 a lifetime membership at $300. cry or shout for joy as I knew the only do things that I couldn’t do before my really enjoyed the camaraderie the Cash $653,283 $576,183 way I was getting a transplant was transplant. I had energy to walk, golf, games had to offer. I strive every day The Board also approved the printing of the Living Proof GIC 2,566 – if someone else had passed away. swim and just get out and enjoy all my to do the very best I can in memory annually. Providing members a hard copy and also to be Within hours I was on my way from new life had to offer me. of my Donor and with help from my available and distributed to local hospitals and clinics. Inventory 3,225 – my home in Cranbrook to Vancouver During my first little while back “Team Members” I continue to be the I believe our most exciting change this year is the new GST/HST Receivable 16,613 – where I would live for the next 2 home I had to make numerous trips very best I can. process put in place in regards to the Provinces collecting donations at fundraising events. Each Provincial Director Unrestricted Surplus $675,687 $576,183

16 17 But there is so much we have learned along this journey. Addison’s Story Not only have we grown stronger together, we have such deep appreciation for the time we do have with Addison. Submitted by Elaine Yong She has taught us to revel in the moment. Sometimes the simplest things bring the greatest joy – the way she giggles was a new heart. She got listed for transplant on Thursday. when you tickle her, or when she has a secret to whisper in Our medical team started making plans to get Addison your ear. We have also found a new passion, dedicating our stable enough for surgery to implant a Berlin Heart – a spare time to raising awareness about organ donation through mechanical heart pump that would hopefully keep her alive groups such as the Canadian Transplant Association and long enough for the wait. They told us to prepare for up to a fundraising for transplant research. Along the way, we have year, or even longer. met so many wonderful recipients, donors, doctors, nurses Then on Saturday, the day before Mother’s Day and five and researchers. And we have made deep and meaningful days after our arrival in the ER, our surgeon called us in friendships, which ease the burden of this “new normal”. the ICU. He wanted to speak to me so my husband Aaron Addison truly embraces life. She wants to try everything handed the phone over. “I have a Mother’s Day present for and loves to take on new challenges. Ballet, tennis, skating, you,” said Dr. Sanjiv Gandhi. I kind of scoffed thinking Chinese and are her current interests. She wants to myself, “What? Did our surgeon buy me chocolates or to take lessons too. Last year at the age of three she transplant surgery, I heard about the WTG and saw there flowers?” learned how to ride a pedal bike. She has no fear! Our recent was a Juniors category. I dared to dream of one day sitting “I have a new heart for you.” Those magic words that trip to Disneyland in Hong Kong included a spin around the on the sidelines cheering on my daughter as she competed. changed everything. I couldn’t even process it and I just Space Mountain rollercoaster. I screamed the loudest. And now we’re almost there. started shaking and repeating, “Are you sure? Is this a joke?” We live by the philosophy another 25+ year heart Every day we think of Audrey, the beautiful little girl Late that evening, we kissed our baby girl good-bye as she transplant recipient wisely shared with us – go and live the who has made all of this possible. She was only 17 days was wheeled into the operating room. We were so scared yet life you were supposed to live. For Aaron and I, we live to old when her mom Felicia had to come to terms with the so hopeful. This was her chance. She had already showed us travel and now we’ve introduced Addison to our world. So worst news a parent can ever face. Yet Felicia didn’t hesitate. she was a fighter and she wasn’t ready to give up. far, her passport stamps include Italy, France, Australia, She immediately said yes to organ donation, believing that On Mother’s Day, Addison got her new heart. Of course Thailand, , and Hong Kong. And this year, saving lives was the reason Audrey had been born. We are the story never ends there. Transplant is not a cure. It’s she’ll get a new one when we go to the World Transplant so incredibly grateful. My very first Mother’s Day was just days away and I wasn’t simply exchanging one deadly condition with another Games in Argentina. During her recovery from the Follow Addison’s story: addisonmcarthur.wordpress.com even sure I’d have any reason to celebrate. My newborn chronic condition that is more easily managed. Addison daughter Addison was in the ICU at BC Children’s Hospital has had her share of ups and downs on this transplant struggling for every beat of her tiny heart. We had already rollercoaster ride. Before she even left the OR, her new been told the grim news – her only chance for survival was a heart stopped working, also known as primary graft failure. heart transplant. Try digesting that shocking conversation, Many patients don’t survive this devastating setback. She Toronto to Host the Next Canadian especially as first-time parents already reeling from our had to go back on ECMO in the hopes her new heart just baby’s sudden heart failure and ensuing diagnosis of a rare needed a rest. Amazingly that’s just what happened. We Transplant Games in 2016 congenital heart defect. took her home from the hospital three weeks later. Addison Just three weeks prior, we had been sent home from the has also dealt with some nasty infections that sent us back Toronto has been selected as the next City to host the hospital with a perfectly healthy child after a perfectly to the hospital - one round of pneumocystis pneumonia and Canadian Transplant Games. These Games will be the SAVE THE DATE normal pregnancy. Now we had a baby who was being kept another of rotavirus. Plus the usual crazy schedule of blood 8th National Transplant Games hosted by the Canadian The Canadian Transplant Games will be held alive by a heart-lung machine and waging a full-out war work, appointments, ECHOs, ECGs, physiotherapy, scans Transplant Association. August 8 –13, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario. against time. It was terrifying and surreal. I knew the odds and tests means we have spent far too many hours at our were not in our favour. The wait list for organs in BC was ‘second home’. Vision for the 2016 Games especially dismal and Addison’s condition was so precarious Hosting profitable games which assists in funding many it was an hour-by-hour situation. “I have a new heart for you.” Those magic Ultimate “Celebration of Life” experience for all particants, including organ recipients, living donors, donor famiies, more awareness activities and events. Toronto: More than On Monday morning, we were walking around the words that changed everything. I couldn’t just a place to go because you are sick. shopping mall. Eight hours later, we were at the ER at BC their supporters, volunteers and the general public. even process it and I just started shaking and Games’ effect: helping to raise registered organ and tissue Please refer to our website at www.canadiantransplant. Children’s Hospital. By midnight, Addison’s heart was in com or email Sandra Holdsworth, Provincial Director at failure. On Wednesday the doctors told us her only hope repeating, “Are you sure? Is this a joke?” doantion rates in Ontario by 500,000 people prior to the start of the 2016 Games and a further 500,000 by the end of 2018. [email protected] for information. See you in Toronto.

18 19 For Supporting the Canadian Transplant Association

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