Another step toward tomorrow: when a trial becomes a protocol!

This week, I'm excited to share some fantastic news coverage about The Ottawa Hospital 's latest breakthrough in stroke treatment, as featured on businesswire.com and the National Post on July 10.

We've discussed Vena Medical in the past. On Feb. 2, CTV National News featured a world-first medical procedure at TOH where Dr. Robert Fahed used Vena Medical’s tiny camera to diagnose and treat a stroke patient with unprecedented precision — marking a major advance in stroke treatment and care. Now, The Ottawa Hospital has taken a significant step forward by adopting Vena Medical's Balloon Distal Access Catheter (BDAC?) into its stroke treatment protocol. This adoption follows a comprehensive evaluation through OBIO's Early Adopter Health Network (EAHN?). It highlights a leap forward in the effectiveness of mechanical thrombectomy. This incredible procedure enables specialists like Dr. Fahed to "pluck" blood clots from the brains of stroke patients, changing and even saving lives within minutes.

Michael Phillips , Co-founder and CEO of Vena Medical, praised TOH for being the first in the world to adopt this groundbreaking technology, emphasizing our role as a champion of innovation in Canada.

Ellen Odai Alie , Director of Medical Imaging at TOH, stated, "Integrating Vena Medical’s BDAC into our treatment protocol means that more patients can be treated successfully on the first try – marking a significant advancement in stroke care."

It's an exciting story that illustrates TOH's commitment to enhancing patient outcomes through innovative solutions and our strategic partnerships with high-tech start-ups. As we work towards enhancing Ottawa’s position as a world-class healthcare hub, we can look forward to even more breakthroughs that will continue to reshape the future of healthcare.

You can read the full media release here. It’s a great one to share with your networks.

Ensuring victims can access the care they need

On July 9, Dr. Renée Bradley , Medical Director of TOH's Sexual Assault and Partner Abuse Care Program, discussed the rise in sexual assaults during the summer festival season on 580 CFRA/I Heart Radio Network (38:04). She explained that increased substance use and large gatherings contribute to this trend.

And she highlights the comprehensive support available at The Ottawa Hospital, emphasizing the importance of trauma-sensitive care and community partnerships to assist victims.

Meet one of our Foundation’s newest Board members!

Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng needs no introduction — he's a superstar doctor on a mission! Whether he's helping prevent ICU visits or sharing insights on his hit podcast, Dr. Kyeremanteng is making waves in healthcare. Dr. Kyeremanteng recently joined our Foundation Board and you will have seen him on-stage as the dynamic emcee of our fantastic “It’s Time” gala campaign celebration – just a few weeks ago!

Get to know him better in this Q&A . It’s a really fun and meaningful interview that we featured alongside our June story about Dr. Kyeremanteng ‘s ICU patient, Sean Sisk.

Leading the way with public health content

A Global News article from July 14 discusses the case of Sherri Jones, an Alberta woman born despite her mother's use of an intrauterine device (IUD) at the time of conception, which she believes may be the cause of the rare health conditions she suffers today. For medical expertise on the topic, Global News reporter Saba Aziz turned to TOH Drs. Darine El-Chaar and Amanda Black.

It’s an excellent example of The Ottawa Hospital's leadership and subject authority, where they explain the complexities and potential risks of IUD use during pregnancy, while highlighting the challenges in diagnosing and treating rare diseases.

Donor spotlight: On the road to recovery

Meet donors John Bruce and Tiffany Hamilton. In 2020, they navigated a 4300-kilometre RV trip from Vancouver to Ottawa with their 3-year-old daughter so John could receive a life-changing hip surgery.

In their donor profile , discover why this once-in-a-lifetime trip inspired them to give back.

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