The Living Proof CANADIAN TRANSPLANT ASSOCIATION ISSUE #45

IN THIS ISSUE

World Transplant Games Provincial Updates 2017 Canadian Transplant Games in BOARD OF DIRECTORS In this Issue President’s Message

President – Dave Smith [email protected] President’s Message...... 3 Submitted by Dave Smith, President 2017 World Transplant Games...... 4 Vice-President – Bianca Segatto It’s hard to believe how time passes us [email protected] Friendships Fuel Athlete’s Focus...... 5 by so quickly these days. Maybe it’s Team Transplant Dragonboat...... 6 just me as I get older, wanting to slow Treasurer – Michael Sullivan things down in an effort to squeeze [email protected] Billion Steps Challenge...... 6 more life out of each day that goes by. CTA Alberta...... 7 I am a transplant recipient of 21 years Secretary – Robert Sallows [email protected] CTA New Brunswick...... 8 now, because of the unselfish act of my amazing brother Barry. He donated Gloria Santini Memorial Award...... 8 Membership Director – Neil Folkins one of his kidneys to me at a time in my [email protected] CTA British Columbia...... 9 life when the normal day to day routine of living was gone, and I was looking at Team Manager – Niva Segatto CTA Ontario...... 10 the possibility of years on dialysis. [email protected] Chasing Greytness...... 11 Time passes. Which is truly a CTA Québec...... 12 miracle thanks to the pioneers of organ get what it’s like be given the gift of you might be able to share your talents PROVINCIAL DIRECTORS The Donorthoners...... 13 transplantation across the country and life or have been one of the precious with the us. Many of us are ready to around the world. We recipients, now people who have shared the gift of pass on our wisdom and make way for Alberta – Hirde Paul Singh CTA Manitoba...... 13 life with others. Our membership new energy and ideas. [email protected] can experience the fact that time does 2018 Canadian Transplant Games...... 14 fly by as we get older, because we are in continues to give back in many ways In January, I was fortunate to enjoy British Columbia – Margaret Benson Remembering Aubrey Goldstein...... 15 fact... ‘getting older’. Something that within their local communities, as well my first World Transplant Winter [email protected] was not possible in the past without as participating in transplant research Games in Anzere, Switzerland, where Calling all Youth Nominations...... 15 Manitoba – Ken Morley the hard work from the amazing surveys, fitness activities and programs I shared my experience with a fantastic [email protected] doctors, nurses, researchers, scientists that will better the future transplant team from Canada, made up of and pharmaceutical companies who experience for the next generation of transplant recipients and donor/donor New Brunswick – Kristen Wheaton have made this all possible for us. recipients. family members. They showed the [email protected] Looking back at the life I have had With all the volunteer hours spent world the spirit and determination of Newfoundland – Heather Lannon since my transplant, it has truly been after my regular work day ends, while our mighty group of 8, as they medaled [email protected] a miracle of events. 18 years ago I was continuing to look for new ways to in many of the various . I Nova Scotia – Cindy Osmond sharing transplant stories with other engage the public with the success couldn’t be more proud of the effort, [email protected] recipients while competing at the stories of organ and tissue donation, I camaraderie and heart they displayed, 1st Canadian Transplant Games in find comfort knowing there are some while showcasing the gift of life. Ontario – Sandra Holdsworth Sherbrooke, Quebec. In 2002 I joined very genuine people coming up behind For those who haven’t attended [email protected] the CTA as a Provincial Director me who share the same enthusiasm the transplant games yet, we are Quebec – Karina Prevost and the rest is history. I honestly and passion towards organization preparing for the 2018 Canadian [email protected] can’t believe the 16 years has passed and will continue to move the CTA Transplant Games in Vancouver, BC On the cover: since the time I decided to do my forward while adjusting to the ever- July 2nd to the 7th. You will never Canadian team participates at the 2018 World Transplant best to give back to a community that changing times. My time with the know what you are missing until you Winter Games in Switzerland welcomes all new recipients with open CTA has been well spent, and I look have had the chance to spend a week arms and creates a feeling of family forward to meeting and mentoring with fellow recipients in a warm and and belonging to both the donors and those willing to step forward and take welcoming environment. Check out recipients. on a role within the organization. If the CTA website for information on We acknowledge and thank all who supplied There are no other transplant you feel you are interested, follow up how to register. It is something you photos and stories for the Living Proof. organizations like ours in Canada that with your local provincial director or should experience at least once in your are run by a group of volunteers who any of our board members, to see how lifetime. I hope to see you all there! Publication Mail Agreement Number: 40033698

2 3 2017 World Transplant Games Friendships Fuel Athlete’s Focus

Submitted by Niva Segatto, Team Manager Submitted by Grey Brett

I remember arriving in Malaga after what seemed like an entire day travel. I felt exhausted and exhilarated, having travelled from Toronto, through Paris, France and connecting to Malaga, Spain with my wife Carla and our 4 year old daughter. I had been concerned about our long layover in Paris - if you know any energetic 4 year olds, you know that they are unpredictable little bundles of... let’s say joy. Our particular little bundle, Charlie, turned out to be a perfect traveller. After finally making it to Torremolinos and the Team Canada hotel, all three of us were crashing, energy-wise. The many hours of travel had caught up with Gold 19 us. We gave in to the idea of a late-evening nap and, not surprisingly, we ended up missing the bus to the opening ceremonies of the 21st World Transplant Games. Whoops. Silver 15 Soon enough it was training day – an opportunity to take will continue to be friends with for a very long time. Great visit the pool I’d be competing in and get in a solid workout. athletes and even better people. I was keen to get in the water and swim out some of the Day 2 at the pool found me with even greater Bronze 21 nerves, excitement and tension that had built up over the strength. I felt energetic and very happy to be there. Frankly, past few days. You see, I had trained extensively for this event I didn’t want it to end. My wife and daughter, who had been and planned to give it my all. I felt committed to putting instrumental in getting me through my liver transplant in Malaga, Spain was the host of the forth an effort that would make my family and my donor June of 2015 were having a great time as well and connected 2017 World Transplant Games in proud. I swam during that practice with a new friend I had with others supporting loved ones through their own the beautiful Costa Del Sol region. met in person just a few days prior. Another liver transplant versions of a now-familiar story. I felt lucky to be cheered Approximately 2000 participants from recipient who had big goals and had been training hard as on by an old friend that we had not seen for a few years 52 countries were present to celebrate well. She and I dove in, swam a solid practice, shook out the who just happened to be living near Malaga at the time, a the gift of life. nerves and were ready for the next two days of competition. well-timed opportunity to catch up in person. At the end Team Canada was represented by 47 When race day came I felt ready. In the days prior, at the of the second day of swimming, there was a lot of emotion athletes including 4 juniors, 3 donor Team Canada hotel, I had connected with so many new in the air. My goals had been met, even surpassed, and I families, and 52 supporters. These people that had gone through such similar experiences found myself saying goodbye to swimmers from around the were the first games where donors were – individuals who had received transplants and their world that I had met and competed with. All were focused able to participate in athletic events, flag as the country was approaching our world records in swimming, in age families. Each of these new friends was inspirational and and competitive yet as friendly as could be. There was this was a wonderful addition. Team 150th Anniversary. The team consisted category 30-39, 50m backstroke, 100m motivating and I found myself wanting to race for them as much discussion about seeing each other at the next games Canada stayed at a beach side resort of first time athletes and veterans, backstroke, 200m individual medley. well. Throughout that first race day, I felt strong, I swam in Newcastle, England 2019, with genuine desire to meet in the suburb of Torremolinos which including Dennis Segatto who first Congratulations to all who well and was happy with my performance but it turned out again – I plan and hope to be there! made for a beautiful sunset setting. For participated in games in 1980, him participated, as many new friendships to be the interactions I had with the other swimmers and All in all, I swam away with 3 gold medals, I set 3 many of our teammates these were their and four others from various countries and memories were made. athletes from around the world that really stuck with me. world records, 1 silver medal and 1 bronze. As personal first and we kicked things were recognized for this milestone by Comparing scars, talking about medication regimens and achievements go, I was thrilled - this represents all of the off with a meet and greet for everyone WTGF President Chris Thomas during Save the date for the next training programs, and hearing about the unique journeys hard work and training I put into preparing for the games. to get to know one another. the opening ceremonies. World Transplant Games - that led to them requiring a transplant. I felt honoured to Still, it wasn’t the hardware and records that I found the Opening ceremonies were held in the The team did very well placing 7th be among people that had been knocked down and decided most fulfilling. It was the friendships I made with people Plaza de Toros (bullring), our flag bearer overall in the medal count with 55 August 17-24, 2019 in to get back up and use physical activity to make the most of from all over Canada and the world that really gave me what Lyne Pelletier lead the Canadian team medals total! This included Michael NewcastleGateshead, UK. their second chance at life. Team Canada happened to be I was looking for and that, I know, will be sustained for into the stadium with pride holding the (Grey) Brett who set three new filled with an amazing group of swimmers who I know I years to come.

4 5 Team Transplant Dragonboat CTA Alberta

Submitted by Donna Flemming Submitted by Hirde Paul Jassal

The team interaction and In 2017, CTA Alberta celebrated was done with the support of several of Provincial Director of Alberta. camaraderie serves as a patient support the 30th Anniversary of Canadian mayors, who proclaimed NOTDAW. CTA Alberta is focusing on raising group along with the excitement of Transplant Association. In celebration A successful Transplant Trot was awareness among diverse communities, competing in festivals where we are Lloydminster CTA regional group hosted by the three regions in which like Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslims, often announced on the overhead PA proudly hung a brass plaque at the they raised funds to support various ’, Chinese, and Spanish. system of what we are all about and entrance of Lloydminster Hospital. CTA Alberta future activities and This has shown a great response, which the general public stop and listen and Calgary region, organized a CTA 30th events. CTA Lloydminster Region proudly reflects the understanding of come to meet us at our Beadonor.ca anniversary dinner, where funds were Group held their second Transplant this critical issue. As of December 1, tent to learn more about organ and raised successfully. In April 2017, CTA Trot, there were 132 registered 2017, 419,965 Albertans registered tissue donation and how to register. Alberta volunteer’s team led by the participants from across Saskatchewan their consent as organ donors. To Besides competing, we also partake Provincial Director, Hirde Paul Jassal, and Alberta, including those who check your status or to register go to in off-season community functions organised an organ donation awareness made the first recognition lapUltimateGiftAlberta.ca and be sure to like our “teddy bear” drive at event for the first time in the Legislative consisting of recipients, living donors share this with your at least 30 friends Christmas donating stuffed animals Assembly of Alberta in Edmonton, and donor family members. Calgary or relatives. to the Dialysis and Transplant Units where the team approached Health region hosted the 5th Transplant Trot, Congratulations to Cooper Pirtle, of the Hospital for Sick Children — Minister Alberta & MLAs to share along with their 3rd NOTDAW walk. on receiving the CTA Provincial Youth so it is adult transplant-related people the organ tissue donation awareness Edmonton region participated in the Award 2016. reaching out to children going through activities in the province and remind K-Days parade 2017. All three regions Team CTA Alberta athletes have the same health battles we have faced the full implementation of Bill 207. hosted picnics and had awareness talks done an excellent job in the 21st World The history of Team Transplant dragonboat festivals in the GTA and are still facing in our own lives. The buildings and bridges were lit in service clubs and schools. Transplant Games, Málaga, Spain, Dragonboat Team goes back for 20 and beyond. The majority of us are green in Edmonton and Calgary, to Alberta Health services officially and now they are ready to participate years and has touched the lives of transplant recipients but also includes If you’re interested in joining show the #LightABGreen campaign printed organ tissue donation facts in the 9th Canadian Transplant Games numerous people over those years living donors (liver and kidney) our team please call Donna organized by the CTA Alberta, to brochures in six different languages; in Vancouver. and continues to do so. We are one of to family members, those waiting support the National Organ and Tissue Punjabi, Hindi, Tagalog, Spanish, the longest-lasting dragonboat teams for a transplant, transplant-related Fleming at 416-516-4103 Donation Awareness Week. This Urdu, and Arabic upon the request out there. health care workers and donor family for more information. We are entering into our 21st season members so it covers many aspects of of bringing organ and tissue donation transplantation and the bond we share awareness through competing in is a strong one.

Billion Steps Challenge

Congratulations and thank you for making every step count. The Fit for Life Billion Steps Challenge was a 90 day challenge coordinated by the World Transplant Games Federation, designed to bring the worldwide transplant community together in unison to do something for themselves – to improve their health and fitness and making Canada had 24 teams and placed 2nd overall healthy living their new ‘normal’. We want to show the world that those living with a transplant are serious about in the world, with 117,721,434 steps, first their health and the precious gift they have been given. place was Hong Kong. Keep on stepping!

6 7 CTA New Brunswick CTA British Columbia

Submitted by Kristen Wheaton, Provincial Director Submitted by Margaret Benson, Provincial Director

“It wasn’t something that you can BC Pacific South Coast has been busy in the last year and transplant, but I had the feeling that are excited about 2018 and all it has to bring! if I could help somebody else get some On Sunday, April 23rd, as part of NOTDAW, the BC help, one way or another, it would make Pacific South Coast CTA took part in the Vancouver Sun me feel great,” he said. “This is my way Run in downtown Vancouver. We had two Transplant of dedicating something on behalf of Trotters teams (2.5km and 10km) with more than 70 people my brother.” involved. The teams sported shock lime green Transplant Each of the events were successful, Trotters T-shirts. Both teams had a wonderful time and despite cold, rainy weather over the spread the word that Organ Donation Works. weekend. Approximately 300 people BC had nine athletes attend the World Transplant participated over the course of the Games in Malaga, Spain. Numerous enthusiastic weekend. We are always so amazed supporters accompanied our athletes. Our athletes were: each year at the number of transplant three youth and five adults. Our youth did very well in all recipients and even donor families who of their events, coming home with many medals. The BC make it out in support of the cause.” athletes participated and medaled in a variety of events and In celebration of National Organ and Chouinard was one of a handful Louis said he loved the experience and were excited and honoured to represent their province and Tissue Donation Awareness Week of runners who ran in the Saint John will return next year. “The organizers of Canada at the WTG. BC sent the eldest (John Hols, 69 three New Brunswick Cities each held event Friday evening, the Moncton run the races did a very good job,” he said. years old, double lung recipient) and youngest (Addison their own Transplant Trot beginning in on Saturday, and the Fredericton event “The speeches were very meaningful. It McYong, 6 years old, heart recipient) athletes on team Saint John on Friday evening, Moncton on Sunday, earning himself a special made me feel very proud to participate Canada. Promoting organ and tissue donation all over on Saturday morning, and ending in Tri-City medal for his efforts. in supporting such a good cause.” the world was BC’s objective and with the creation of the Fredericton on Sunday morning. Chouinard said he was inspired by Louis Chouinard and Vanessa Black Canadian lapel pin we shared that message everywhere we Louis Chouinard did not have to the cause, which is to raise funds and completed all three of the Transplant visited before and after the Games. All of our athletes and trouble over deciding which Transplant awareness of the importance of organ Trots in New Brunswick over the supporters came home with amazing stories and lasting Kathleen Fleming, our new secretary and transplant Trot he wanted to take part in over the donation, after losing his brother to weekend, earning themselves special memories of their extraordinary time in Malaga. They can’t family member, whose family has been touched by weekend. He did all three. stomach cancer two years ago. Tri-City medals for the achievement. wait for the next world games in England. transplant in many ways has created BC’s version of the CTA BC worked with the Transplant Research CTA’s 30th anniversary celebratory video. CTA BC would Foundation (TRF) to help support their Recycle Ride, which like to thank Kathleen for her hard work; it is a great video, took place on Sunday, July 30th. The TRF is a transplant which demonstrates the good work CTA has been doing for Gloria Santini Memorial Award group, which supports and fundraises money for the much the last 30 years. needed research for Transplantation and Organ Donation. BC is excited to host the 2018 Canadian Transplant It is important for CTA BC to help other transplant groups Games at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in In memory of the late Gloria Santini, one of the founding about the desperate need for organ donation. Gloria will by volunteering at their events. Vancouver. We were honoured to be chosen as the city to members of the Canadian Transplant Association. Any be remembered for her unwavering commitment to saving Also held on Sunday, July 30th was our Transplant host the games. We are looking forward to showing off our member of the CTA, who demonstrates the determination, lives as well as for her participation in the World Transplant Community picnic, sponsored by CTA BC, BC Transplant, beautiful city and all that it has to offer. The majority of ambition, dedication, perseverance, and professionalism that Games, the world’s largest organ donor awareness event. Children’s Organ Transplant Society (COTS) and the events will take place right on the gorgeous UBC campus, Gloria did in promoting and supporting the CTA mission, Nominations can be submitted to the CTA president Transplant Research Foundation. The event was well attended with only a few off-site events. UBC has lots to offer our nationally and/or internationally, is eligible for nomination. ([email protected]) who will then forward the nominations to (80 people) and we had lots of great activities. CTA BC enjoys transplant community and they are helping the LOC to This award will keep the memory of Gloria alive and in the CTA awards committee. working with the other transplant groups in BC because make the games special and memorable. the hearts of many, and will encourage members, old and The CTA awards committee will review the nominees and our goals are the same: promote organ and tissue donation, new, to be involved in very productive roles in the interest of make the decision on the award recipient. The announcement increase healthy, active living post transplant and prove organ We invite all of you and your families the CTA and to make the CTA a household name, not only of the recipient of the Gloria Santini award will take place at donation works. We are looking forward to a bigger event to the 2018 Canadian Transplant Games in Canada but around the world, while educating the public Canadian Transplant Games gala dinner in Vancouver, BC. next year with more transplant organizations involved. July 2nd–7th.

8 9 Special thanks to Carol Morningstar, long time members entered their Rob’s The Organ Project requested to have CTA Ontario Board CTA Ontario for suggesting the wonderful venue. Angels team, raising over $13,000. a few ambassadors for organ donation I had the pleasure of connecting with CTA Ontario donated $5,000 of the work at the Human Resources 2017/2019 Submitted by Sandra Holdsworth, Provincial Director Maxine Featherstonaugh, a living liver funds raised from the STWM and Professional Association Conference PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR donor to her mom, who had an idea to with the funds raised by the Donor where they were selected as the featured Sandra Holdsworth do the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Teams in total, including a donation of charity of choice. Helen Farinha, SECRETARY Marathon (STWM) and raise funds $25,000 from the Organ Project came Grey Brett, Jenn Choo Chee and Carol Morningstar for CTA. We connected so well from to $65,000 which will go to support myself all attended along with Sherrie our first conversation, and I invited the High School Outreach Initiative Logan and Tom Mitrovski during TREASURER her to speak at our Fit for Life event. being administered by The Toronto the 3-day conference which was a Janice Corbin From this wonderful connection, The Transplant Institute. great success. SPORTS COORDINATOR Donorthoners was formed and a team Helen Farinha, has been the go If you wish to host an event, or have Grey Brett was entered in the STWM and raised to person for a few years for the ideas you wish to discuss, please contact STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS lots of funds for the CTA. High School Outreach Program to me or any member of our board. If you COORDINATOR Members of the Ontario Board also share her story with students, and our are not a member of the Canadian Helen Farinha participated in the Ashely’s Angels new board member, Grey Brett, is now Transplant Association, I suggest you Catwalk for Sick Kids again this involved as well. CTA Ontario plans become one, as it a great group to MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR year. CTA sponsored two teams, The to work with the Toronto Transplant belong to with many opportunities to Arlene Lindsay Donorthoners which included Maxine, Institute, Ashley’s Angels and The raise awareness to save lives. EVENTS COORDINATOR The Ontario Board took a break following Life Program, and we had others who and Team Give Life, which included Organ Project to see how we can keep Continue to live your life to the Mae Herrera the 2016 Games and all the activity that spoke about, goal setting, motivation, and Claude & France LaFlamme. Also, the HSOI going and expand it across fullest and show the world that “Organ came before them. We still continued training techniques. We also had a panel Rob Kolatschek and Mae Herrera Ontario. Donation Works.” Liaisons with our signature events, including the answer questions about nutrition, fitness, DONOR FAMILY LIAISON London Transplant Trot and the Jonathon exercise, etc. During the lunch break, Heather Talbot Talbot Table Tournament both there was an opportunity for exercise and Chasing Greytness LIVING DONOR LIAISON held in the Spring of 2017. following the sessions an opportunity France Laflamme As Provincial Director, I continue to to be tested for level of fitness by the Submitted by Grey Brett network with stakeholders, volunteer students of the University of Toronto FAMILY & YOUTH LIAISON with Trillium Gift of Life Network, sit Physical Therapy Department. This I have always been an active person As a practice of martial arts, Muay Devan Cruickshanks on a Regional Liaison Committee for event was a great success and we hope to with a strong interest in fitness. Not Thai kickboxing is easily scalable to TEAM TRANSPLANT LIAISON Canadian Blood Services, and act as a host one again in both the London and surprisingly, my passion for wellness benefit anyone at any fitness level. I use Donna Fleming co-lead on CNTRP’s Project 7, which is Toronto areas. has grown stronger, following my it alongside elements of complimentary focused on quality of life for transplant At the end of summer, a new Ontario liver transplant. I feel driven to set and fitness certifications to create fun, Area Reps recipients, pre-and post-transplant. I’m Board was formed which includes achieve goals that showcase what a personalized experiences and real- SOUTH/WEST ONTARIO also building a relationship with The returning and new members. I would post-transplant body is capable of. world results for those who reach Niva Segatto Organ Project to feature recipients on like to thank the volunteers who were Years before my transplant, working out to me with physical well-being LONDON their website and was fortunate to be part of the board for the last 5 years and as a personal trainer and running a Muay as a priority. I’m thrilled to be seeing Cora Morningstar invited to their gala where recipients have now stepped down and welcome Thai kickboxing gym, I discovered a significant increase in this sort of

TORONTO were invited to share their stories and our new board members (see Board list). the true joy of helping people become interest recently - I’m hearing from stronger, all around more capable people who want to know, “What Jennifer Choo Chee made for a great night. Our new board got to work to celebrate We have worked closely with Claude CTA’s 30th Anniversary. We hosted a versions of themselves. Today, I continue can I do after the physical ordeal of a TRI-CITIES (K/W/C) LaFlamme, the Fit for Life Ambassador dinner and dance in Niagara Falls with to offer personal training with a specific transplant to have the best outcome for Kelly Kleinschmidt for Canada, to bring awareness to the over 85 members attending. During the desire to benefit transplant recipients, my circumstances, fitness-wise?” It’s an program started by the World Transplant event we presented the Ontario Leslie near and far, who are interested in honour for me to meet the challenge of Games Federation. In April 2017, Petter Memorial Award for 2017 as greater mobility, movement, flexibility, answering a call like that. Ontario held the 1st Fit for Life Event well as 2015, as we missed this year. strength and endurance. in partnership with CanRestore. Claude Congratulations to Rob Kolatschek and I love to share, connect with and be inspired by others through my website facilitated and spoke about the Fit for Andrea Clegg who were the recipients. www.goalembassy.com and on Instagram @chasing_greytness

10 11 CTA Québec The Donorthoners

Submitted by Karina Prevost & Audrée Descheneaux Submitted by Maxine Featherstonhaugh, Living Liver Donor

The Donorthoners and the CTA — Along with the running organs I also a perfect match! When I realized that wanted to create a team of people that the fall of 2017 would mark several would help raise funds and, on race day, milestones for me — most importantly, would be dressed in matching “organ the 15th anniversary of donating my donation green” t-shirts to stand out liver to my mom; as well the 15th time and help raise awareness. Working with I would participate in the Scotiabank Sandra Holdsworth from the CTA, Toronto Waterfront Marathon; and my family and friends, we enlisted a finally, the 42nd marathon I would team of almost 40 runners and walkers run since that invasive surgery — I doing various distances on race day and of the world I had entered into, but I Au Québec, l’année 2017 s’est déroulée sous le signe du Un mois d’octobre haut en couleurs knew I had to do something special to raised over $15,000 for CTA! Many of am thrilled to be a part of it. renouveau et de l’action! Nous souhaitons remercier tous les Malgré le vent et la pluie, c’est une dizaine de membre de mark the occasion. our participants were organ recipients, The Donorthoners was my first foray membres qui contribuent, chaque jour, à sensibiliser le grand L’Association canadienne des greffés du Québec qui ont After much consideration, I decided donors and members of the CTA. into the world of organ and tissue public à la cause du don d’organes et aussi à promouvoir représenté L’ACG au sein des différentes équipes-étendards du that a charitable act would best fit Once partnered with Sandra and donation awareness and working l’importance de l’activité physique et de saines habitudes de Défi Chaîne de Vie les 14 et 15 octobre derniers sur l’ensemble my situation and that would be to the CTA the year was a whirlwind with a charity. The experience was vie après la greffe. Merci! du territoire provincial. Ce fut particulièrement touchant de raise awareness for organ and tissue of excitement! First, she asked me to beyond words and the most special Ça bouge! voir ainsi rassemblés plusieurs centaines de personnes qui ont donation and encourage people to speak at a Fit for Life conference to part was meeting and participating Plusieurs activités ont eu lieu au cours de l’année dont les Jeux mis de l’avant la cause du don d’organes d’un bout à l’autre du register at beadonor.ca. To do this, I help inspire recipients to participate with transplant recipients. They are an Mondiaux des greffés à Malaga en Espagne. Une semaine Québec! Toutes nos félicitations à Madame Lucie Dumont, la would run the Scotiabank Toronto with The Donorthoners at STWM. incredibly positive and thankful-for- incroyable! Au retour, nous nous sommes rencontrés chez directrice de ce grand projet éducatif. Waterfront Marathon (STWM) Next, was organizing the team for their-second-chance group of people Audrée dans le cadre d’un pique-nique sportif où nous Un peu plus tard en octobre, c’était le lancement Québécois dressed as a liver and have three the race, having our costumes and and their inspiration has me wanting avons pu échanger et profiter de la belle journée pour faire du programme Fit for Life à l’Université McGill. Ce friends with me dressed as a heart, t-shirts made and actually running the to be more and more involved in this du vélo, tester nos aptitudes au lancer du javelot, du poids, programme, piloté au Canada par L’Ambassadeur national a lung and a kidney. With that, marathon. Post-race, I attended the cause and with the CTA. bref, un événement qui à été fort agréable, que l’on espère FFL Claude Laflamme, est une initiative mondiale de la I also had to find a charity that would CTA Ontario’s 30th anniversary gala I am looking forward to many more répéter en 2018. Plusieurs d’entre-nous ont bien sûr donné World Transplant Federation appuyé par la compagnie suit and whom I could raise funds where I met many more inspirational experiences with this partnership and de leur temps afin de sensibiliser la population à la cause pharmaceutique Astellas. Nous sommes heureux d’avoir for, enter the CTA Ontario Chapter. organ recipients and finally, she asked am very excited for an even larger du don d’organes, que ce soit par la vente de ballons, de collaboré à l’organisation de la journée qui fut un réel succès. I searched and searched the web for me to participate in the Ashley’s Angels participation at STWM this October! témoignage lors de conférences, dans les milieux scolaires, Plus de 50 personnes, toutes greffées, se sont joint à nous pour the perfect match and when I came Catwalk for Sick Kids where I walked We’re always recruiting, so please d’implications diverses auprès de Transplant Québec, etc. une journée bien remplie où tous ont pu bénéficier de conseils across the CTA, I knew this was the a fashion catwalk in recognition of my visit www.donorthoners.org and join Nous vous en sommes reconnaissants. santé post-greffe, d’ateliers d’exercice et du plaisir de réseauter. right charity! organ donation. Whoa! I had no idea us in 2018! Fin septembre, deux équipes de greffés du cœur, des Jeux Mondiaux d’hiver des greffés poumons et du foie ont pris part à la course “Courez Nous souhaitons terminer en félicitant chaleureusement don” (course/marche à relais non chronométrée) sur Maude Schneider, greffée rénale, pour ses deux médailles CTA Manitoba l’anneau des Plaines d’Abraham à Québec. L’événement d’or en planche à neige (parallèle et boardercross) La annuel est organisé par du personnel du département de Québécoise, qui réside dans les Laurentides, conserve ainsi transplantation du CHU de Québec afin de soutenir le son titre de double Championne du Monde! Submitted by Ken Morley, Provincial Director département de transplantation et de souligner l’importance Nous poursuivons notre travail avec entrain afin de du don d’organes et de signer sa carte. Tous les membres de continuer à sensibiliser la population au don d’organes et de Our group is small but continuing to grow and prosper. We We would like to congratulate all the athletes who l’équipe ont eu la chance de se présenter devant le public promouvoir l’activité physique après la greffe, parce que la had a very successful fundraising campaign. We could not do attended the summer games. We are looking forward to et d’ainsi poser un geste de sensibilisation. C’est avec greffe, ça marche! Si vous avez envie de vous impliquer ou our Transplant Trot this year, due to conflicting schedules. going to Vancouver for the summer games. We are facing beaucoup de fierté et d’émotions que les deux équipes ont de proposer une activité en particulier, n’hésitez surtout pas We did a Grey Cup raffle and for our first time it was a some challenges due to the privacy rules, but we are doing terminé la course, grandement encouragés par l’ensemble à nous contacter! success. We had youth athlete, Allexis Siebrecht, attend the are best to recruit new members throughout Manitoba. World Transplant Games in Spain. She did very well at her des participants. À bientôt! Please help spread the word around our province! first international games, medaling in various events.

12 13 2018 Canadian Transplant Games Remembering Aubrey Goldstein

Submitted by the Vancouver Local Organizing Committee Last Thanksgiving weekend, Aubrey Goldstein, Past President of the Canadian Transplant Association passed Live the life you were meant to live. everyone, just competing and crossing away at Toronto General Hospital. Aubrey, a liver recipient That’s the ultimate goal of organ the finish line are victories. However, of 19 years, due to Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, was donation and transplantation. From make no mistake, competition is waiting for a second liver transplant due to recurring PSC. July 2nd to 7th, 2018, in beautiful fierce amongst the most elite of these Aubrey attended his first Canadian Transplant Games Vancouver, the power of this incredible participants. in Sherbrooke in 2000, along with his wife Caroline. He “Gift of Life” will be showcased with The other goal is to encourage went on to attend many Canadian and World Games, strength, agility, speed, skill and in British Columbians and Canadians competing in cycling, tennis, running and . His last some instances pure determination. to register their consent as organ games were at the 2016 Canadian Transplant Games, both Prepare to be awestruck, moved to donors. There are currently more than he and Caroline competed in cycling as it was the first time tears and overjoyed with delight as 4000 people in our country waiting living donors were also able to compete. Caroline donated a you watch transplant recipients of for their gift of life. Some of them kidney to a friend in 2014. yet to do a second liver transplant living donor procedure. all ages, compete to the best of their will die while waiting. Let’s give Aubrey, who lived in Ottawa was recently retired as a chronic For the donor it is the same surgery as is used now for first ability. hope to those waiting for transplant care physician at Bruyère Continuing Care, and as a medical liver transplant. But for the recipient it takes twice as long The Canadian Transplant Games by using the CTG and our athlete’s reviewer of clinical trial applications for Health Canada. for the operation.” (CTG) is the premiere athletic accomplishments as a platform to We can’t wait to welcome He was often called upon to give interviews about organ & “I’ve been incredibly lucky to have 19 extra years. And I’ve celebration of sport for transplant raise awareness. all of you and your tissue donation and transplantation and as a spokesperson done a lot of things in those 19 years. I haven’t waited until recipients from across the country. In 2017, BC set records for both for the CTA. He was also a member of the board of PSC I retired to travel, see the world.” Vancouver is encouraging living organ donation and transplantation — supporters to our amazing Partners Seeking a Cure. One of his last interviews was a “If we’re getting close to the end and I don’t get another donors and a member of the with a 25 per cent increase in deceased hometown of Vancouver plea for a living donor to come forward. transplant, I don’t regret anything. I lived a full life,” he immediate family of a deceased donor organ donors helping BC achieve a for the 9th Canadian “This is a hard ask to do,” he wrote. “But I’m posting this said, expressing gratitude for everyone who has stepped to participate in selected athletic record in total organ transplants. Our message because someone out there may be able to save my forward to help him. events. The focus of the Games is hope with hosting the games in BC, Transplant Games! life... At this time, they do more living donor surgeries than We are so grateful for the time and wisdom Aubrey shared to provide these individuals with a is to increase those numbers in 2018. any other transplant centre in North America. But they have with us and most importantly his friendship. venue of national competition and During the Games, our most also to prepare them for the World cherished participants will be donor Transplant Games. Every athlete families and living donors. We strive Calling all Youth Nominations is welcome, no matter what their to honour your gift of life with special ability or competency for sports. For events throughout the week. The Provincial and National Canadian Transplant Award’s committee will choose the National Youth award Association Youth awards are calling for nominations recipient to be announced at the Canadian Transplant this spring. In the early spring, provincial directors are Games this summer in Vancouver. asked to accept nominations of their local youth. Using Message from games manager Brenda Brown the guidelines for the Provincial Youth Award, provincial Let’s honour our youth by congratulating them on directors and their board of directors may choose a local a job well done and putting forth their names to candidate to receive a Provincial Youth Award. The award I couldn’t be more honoured to be the Games Manager I myself am also very excited to be competing in the be nominated for a Provincial Youth award and may be presented at the local Transplant Trot. for this year’s Canadian Transplant Games. Not only Games for the very 1st time and celebrating my 5th year possibly the National Youth Award. After the awards have been presented, on the local are we excited to host everyone in beautiful Vancouver, post kidney transplant, thanks to my daughter and the level, each province may submit the youth’s name for out at the glorious renowned UBC campus, set just above Kidney-exchange program, with my family and friends as the National Youth Award. Included with the name: a Who can be nominated? views of English Bay and beyond to the Pacific Ocean and a native Vancouverite. I look forward to meeting you in photo, a bio describing the candidate’s accomplishments, • a youth who is a transplant recipient or has the islands, but we have so many fun athlete and family beautiful Vancouver and hope you come enjoy yourselves their community involvement regarding organ donation, an affiliation to the transplant cause events planned to allow everyone time to celebrate the, with us in July. transplantation and creating awareness and any other • is under 17 years of age “Gift of Life” they’ve all been awarded, together after pertinent information that expresses the candidate’s • is a CTA member receiving transplant. commitment to the CTA/transplant cause. The National

14 15 For Supporting the Canadian Transplant Association

Become a member today and support our initiatives. If you are a recent transplant recipient, you’re eligible for a complimentary one-year membership! See our website for more information.

BECOME AN ORGAN & TISSUE DONOR canadiantransplant.com

Canadian Transplant Association c/o N. Folkins 11649 St. Albert Trail NW Edmonton, AB T5M 3L6

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