Peterborough Regional Health Centre Unveil Anne Keenleyside & Family Atrium After $2 Million Donation

Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) has unveiled the Anne Keenleyside & Family Atrium today in honour of a $2 million legacy gift to the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation on Monday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the PRHC.

The gift was made through Dr. Anne Keenleyside's estate, a Trent University professor of bioarchaeology who passed away in October of 2022 due to cancer. Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation president and CEO says the bequest has been invested in equipment and technology that support cancer care innovation, following Keenleyside’s request.

“Anne was clear she wanted her gift to connect her passion for scientific innovation with her desire to help the patients who would come after her. “Her generosity has allowed the PRHC Foundation to fund a second MRI for PRHC’s Diagnostic Imaging Department, as well as fully upgrading a general operating suite with state-of-the-art minimally invasive surgical tools – one of four undertaken by the Foundation,” she said. “By directing her bequest to the MRI and our minimally invasive surgical suites, her gift is already helping our hospital increase capacity and image quality for diagnostic scans and giving our general surgeons access to brand new, leading-edge tools to perform cancer surgeries.”

“Thanks to Anne’s investment, we’ve been able to increase our capacity, performing an additional 6,000 scans since the new unit became operational.” said Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC President and CEO. “Not only is this helping us address diagnostic wait times, we’re also able to produce much higher-quality images in less time while providing a significantly improved patient experience.”

Mikula added that the investment in PRHC’s general operating suites empowers the introduction of fluorescence-guided imaging. This process involves injecting contrast dyes or agents into a patient’s bloodstream prior to surgery, making their blood vessels, bile ducts, and lymph nodes light up when combined with fluoroscopy according to a press release.

“The impact of this new technology is significant,” said Mikula. “It’s already allowing our surgeons to operate with increased precision – an advancement that has tremendous implications for the treatment of bowel and other cancers.”

Heighway says the decision to name the atrium in recognition of Keenleyside’s generosity was made in consultation with the hospital and her family. It was a decision that her partner, Pat Butler, says her family and friends are very happy about.

“Anne’s gift to the hospital reflects her generous and thoughtful nature,” said Butler. “She was incredibly grateful for the expert and compassionate care she received at Peterborough Regional Health Centre and wanted to do something after she was gone to help make things better for others like her. This bequest is a gift to both her community and the healthcare professionals who cared for her after her diagnosis over 10 years ago.”

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Campbellford Memorial Hospital Seeking Community Input For New Strategic Plan

Campbellford Memorial Hospital (CMH) is seeking input from community members as it works towards creating a new strategic plan, announced on Monday.

The hospital was established in 1953. They provide acute care services including a Special Care Unit, Endoscopy Surgical Suite, Diagnostic Imaging Department, Laboratory, numerous Out-Patient Clinics, 24/7 Emergency Department and numerous community programs including Mental Health, GAIN, and Supportive Housing. File photo.

CMH has launched a strategic planning survey to gather diverse perspectives, inviting community members to share their thoughts on the hospital's future direction according to a press release.

This initiative plans to chart a bold course for CMH over the next five to 10 years, aligning with the dynamic shifts in healthcare including technological advancements and evolving care delivery methods.

“With redevelopment plans underway and the transformative impact of new technologies already being seen, this marks an opportune moment to lay the groundwork for CMH's path to 2030 and beyond,” said Jeff Hohenkerk, CEO.

While redevelopment remains a focal point for CMH, underscored by the generous land donation from local farmer Jim Curle, the strategic plan goes beyond the physical infrastructure as stated by Hohenkerk.

“This is not just about a new building,” he said. “It's about envisioning the future of healthcare that our community desires.”

The strategic planning process will also delve into an in-depth demographic analysis to discern evolving healthcare needs, ensuring that CMH is well-positioned to meet the region's demands over the coming decades.

The survey is available online and public members are also encouraged to email info@cmh.ca to share their thoughts on the hospital's future. 

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Peterborough Petes 15th Annual Pink In the Rink Game To Support Wheels of Hope Running This Saturday

In support of Wheels of Hope, the Peterborough Petes' 15th annual Pink in the Rink game is set for Saturday when the Petes host the Niagara IceDogs at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The team is wearing special theme jerseys designed by Kyle McDonald of Pioneer Inc. that highlight the names of nearly 200 people battling cancer and feature a special Canadian Cancer Society shoulder crest.

The funds support the Wheels of Hope transportation program provided by the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). It connects people to cancer treatments with volunteer drivers and travel cost reimbursements.

All Petes players and coaches will act as ambassadors for the campaign. Family, friends and fans can donate on behalf of a particular player or coach by going online and choosing their name from the dropdown menu on the CCS fundraising website.

Fans can also support the campaign through an in-person silent auction in the North Lobby on game night, a special chuck-a-puck at the second intermission or by purchasing an Official 15th Annual Pink in the Rink t-shirt and/or Anniversary Pin.

Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. has produced a limited edition run of Petes Lager featuring a Pink Can. Each can sold sees 25 cents donated to the Pink in the Rink campaign.

After raising $954,136 over the past 14 years, the Petes announced that this year’s fundraising goal is $50,000. If achieved, the Petes and the Peterborough community will hit $1,000,000 raised in the fight against cancer in Pink in the Rink’s history. 

Official game jerseys are available at the Pink in the Rink live post-game auction. Fans are asked to move to the Gibson’s Finest Club Section immediately following the game to participate in the auction. A game ticket is required to take part in the game-worn jersey auction. 

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Six Fleming College Paramedic Students Take An Icy Dip For Campbellford Memorial Hospital

Six Fleming College Paramedic students are taking the plunge to benefit Campbellford Memorial Hospital’s campaign to buy a new CT scanner, announced on Friday.

Fleming’s plunge from last year. Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

The Medic Mavericks team consists of Fleming students Danielle Blavert, Theo Guenther, Keyanna O’Rourke, Emily Escott, Maddie Mason-Gaynor, and Taiya Martin.

A goal of $1,000 is set to help the hospital’s cause.

The students will be dressed in their paramedic uniforms and will brave Trent River’s frigid temperatures on Saturday at noon. They will jumpfrom the shoreline at Lion’s Club Park in Campbellford. 

Donors can go online to give to the Medic Maverick’s campaign.

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Peterborough Public Health to Cease Sewage Permit and Inspection Program In Mid-November

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is no longer overseeing the permitting and inspection process for onsite sewage systems in the City and County of Peterborough after Nov. 17.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The delivery of these services in the region as responsibility for permitting and inspections is transferred to local municipalities after the deadline.   

“Peterborough Public Health has provided these building inspection services related to onsite sewage systems for over forty years, but we are now only one of eleven public health units offering this service,” said Julie Bromley, Chief Building Official and PPH manager of environmental health.

“This decision by the Board of Health was challenging, given the long-standing positive relationships with residents served by this program and the dedicated work of our staff in this area,” said Kathryn Wilson, board of health chair councillor. “The transfer supports a one-stop-shop for residents and builders at municipal building departments and allows Peterborough Public Health to focus on our core work, as mandated by the Ontario Public Health Standards in a period of inadequate provincial funding for our core work.” 

PPH says they are working closely with all municipalities that will return to delivery of this service to ensure a smooth transition for building departments and minimize disruptions to residents and industry experts. The transition will occur over two phases.   

Phase 1: Effective April 1, the following municipalities will receive all new applications and activities related to onsite sewage systems: 

• Township of Cavan Monaghan 

• Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan 

• Township of Selwyn 

• Municipality of Trent Lakes 

Phase 2: Effective Nov. 18, the following municipalities will receive all new applications and activities related to onsite sewage systems:

• Township of Asphodel-Norwood 

• Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen 

• City of Peterborough 

The Townships of North Kawartha and Douro-Dummer already oversee activities related to sewage systems so no changes are made for those municipalities.

Residents with open applications or permits with PPH will be contacted with further information and direction on closing their applications.

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New Consultant Pediatrician Joining Five Counties Children’s Centre

Dr. Sean Godfrey is joining Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) as a consulting pediatrician starting this month.

Five Counties Children’s Centre provides speech, physio and occupational therapies, as well as other treatment services for kids and youth from birth to age 19 years. This past year, Five Counties served more than 6,200 children and youth in its region – the highest number of clients in its nearly 50-year history. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

Godfrey has over 25 years of experience in hospital and community settings. He is splitting time supporting kids and clients at Five Counties sites in Peterborough, Lindsay and Cobourg while seeing other children, youth and their families from across the region at his new private medical practice he is setting up at Five Counties in Peterborough.

“Dr. Godfrey is a well-respected and highly regarded consultant pediatrician who will enhance the specialized care available to our youngest citizens,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “The partnership will directly benefit Five Counties kids and clients but also support other families from Peterborough, City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County and Northumberland County whom Dr. Godfrey will see on a referral basis through his own pediatric practice.”

From 1999 to 201, Godfrey was a staff pediatrician at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa. Between 2008 and 2014, he also served as the hospital’s chief of pediatrics. For over 20 years, Godfrey has been director of KinderClinic, a children’s urgent care clinic he founded based in Whitby and Simcoe.

“Five Counties Children’s Centre has a wonderful reputation for what it does for families in this region, and I look forward to contributing to that success,” said Godfrey. “Over my career, I’ve been fortunate to have a private practice within a community setting that allows me independence and a chance to establish rapport with families. In both situations, it’s a joy to see children flourish and grow to reach their full potential.”

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Herod Financial Services Donates $25,000 to CMHA HKPR’s Journeying Together Program

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has received $25,000 from Herod Financial Services towards the Journeying Together program that supports caregiver mental health.

Over the past nine years, Herod has brought in over $150,000 to CMHA HKPR. File Photo.

It provides education and support to caregivers and family members of individuals with mental health concerns. The program supports approximately 250 individuals annually, helping them learn how to better support their loved ones and themselves, according to a press release.

“We understand that mental health concerns are at an all-time high in our community, and we recognize the heavy burden this has placed on caregivers of loved ones with mental health issues,” said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “Programs like our 'Journeying Together' program are more necessary now than ever.”

“It is so important for individuals experiencing a mental health concern to have a strong support system,” said Kevan Herod, Herod Financial Services CEO. “Journeying Together helps sustain the people who love and support their family member, friend or loved one who is having challenges. We are so blessed to be able to help the CMHA deliver this important service.”

“The Herods continue to lead the way in supporting the mental health of caregivers in our community,” said Veitch. “Their on-going generous support has been instrumental in the success of the program and has ensured that families are able to receive essential mental health care.“

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'One in Five Households Struggle to Afford Food' Says Peterborough Public Health

Food security has become an increasing issue as nearly one in five Peterborough City and County residents worry about running out of money for food according to a new report from Peterborough Public Health (PPH) announced on Monday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 2023 Addressing Food Insecurity in Peterborough Report says that inadequate incomes result in the highest rates of food insecurity our region has ever seen as stated by PPH.  

“It is no secret that the cost of food has gone up,” said Lauren Kennedy, PPH registered dietitian. “Many people are really struggling to afford food, a basic human need. No one should have to choose between shelter or food but this is a reality that is negatively impacting their physical and mental health.”  

Although food prices have increased dramatically over the past year, insufficient income remains the critical issue behind rising food insecurity said Kennedy.

“This report documents the lived experience of too many members of our community,” she said. “It is disturbing that nearly 20 per cent of households worry about running out of money for food. This is the highest level we have ever seen.”

Joan DiFruscia, Peterborough Food Action Network member and Chair of the Otonabee-South Monaghan Food Cupboard, says she has supported emergency food programs for over 40 years.

“Food banks work hard to serve community members in need. But they are meant to be a temporary fix, not the solution,” she said. “They do not address the root cause of food insecurity. Systemic change is urgently needed and increasing income is key.” 

“We encourage everyone in our community to speak up for more money for food,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH Medical Officer of Health. “Raising incomes is the only way to prevent food insecurity. Now is the time to stand up for more money for food.” 

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Campbellford Memorial Hospital Applying Additional Visitor Restrictions In Response to COVID-19 Outbreak

With continuing challenges by the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak within their Inpatient Unit (IPU), Campbellford Memorial Hospital (CMH) is adding additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our patients, staff and visitors effective immediately.

File photo.

Further restrictions are applied to visitation to the Inpatient Unit. Until further notice, only one individual, classified by the patient as an essential caregiver, will be permitted to visit patients in the Inpatient Unit.

The hospital considers caregivers as individuals crucial to the patient's well-being, providing support that contributes to their assessment, diagnosis, physical and mental health during their hospital stay. These individuals offer ongoing support to the patient and are likely to continue assisting in discharge. Caregivers will have access to patients during evenings, weekends, and other times when they desire their presence. 

Exceptions to this policy will be considered for palliative patients, subject to approval from the IPU manager or Chief Nursing Executive (CNE).

“We understand that these measures may cause inconvenience, but the safety of our patients and the community remains our top priority," said Heather Campbell, VP of Patient Care. "We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our patients, their families, and the broader community as we continue to respond to this outbreak.”

Services in the Emergency Department remain unaffected by this outbreak and community members in need of emergency care should not hesitate to seek assistance.

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CO2 Monitors Available To Borrow For Free In Local Libaries

According to Peterborough Public Health (PPH), residents can borrow a CO2 Monitor at any library in Peterborough City, County and Hiawatha First Nation, effectively immediately.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

In March last year, Peterborough Public Library in collaboration with PPH, —supported by devices donated by Prescientx and CO2 Check — was the first library in North America to offer CO2 monitors as part of their Library of Things lending catalogue.

As a result of cooler temperatures and rainy weather, people spend more time gathering indoors. An increased risk of spreading and acquiring respiratory illnesses stems from being indoors more often. Respiratory illnesses like RSV, Influenza and COVID-19 can be transmitted through the air we breathe according to PPH. Carbon dioxide (CO2), the air we exhale, can be monitored and used to indicate the quality of the air we breathe.

“As we enter cold and flu season, carbon dioxide monitors are one tool we can add to our suite of tools to help us stay healthy; CO2 monitors can act as a proxy for determining whether a space has adequate ventilation and fresh air,” said Keith Beecroft, PPH health promotor.

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