Anonymous Donor Pledges $1 Million to Establish a Stroke Care Network of Excellence

The Hospitals of Regina Foundation and the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (RQHR) held a news conference today to announce an exciting new initiative: a Stroke Care Network of Excellence for southern Saskatchewan. The key stages of this initiative will include:

• Renovations to the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre (WRC) to allow the RQHR to adopt the latest principles of stroke rehabilitation care;
• Establishing communication infrastructure to allow specialists in Regina to consult with stroke patients and clinicians across southern Saskatchewan in venues that are closer to their homes.

Fundraising for the initiative is being led by the Hospitals of Regina Foundation. A very generous anonymous donor has offered to donate $1 million provided the community raises $500,000 by December 1, 2007. To date, almost $200,000 has been raised.

“We have been given a tremendous opportunity by our donor,” said Judy Davis, Chief Executive Officer of the Hospitals of Regina Foundation, “and we are very thankful for the donor’s commitment. Stroke care in southern Saskatchewan will benefit greatly with a redevelopment of space, new equipment and new communication technologies. With your support, better stroke care will be available to stroke survivors across southern Saskatchewan.”

Dr. Milo Fink, section head of Rehabilitation Medicine for the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region, said the renovations to the WRC Adult In-Patient Rehabilitation Unit will have a great impact on how services are delivered. “Integration in the unit is essential – integrating therapy space, meal areas and bathroom facilities will ensure that therapy is a part of every day living, not just at allotted therapy times. This improvement to inpatient therapy will speed recovery for stroke survivors.”

Dr. Wadea Tarhuni, Specialist, Internal Medicine, Five Hills Health Region, said, “The Stroke Care Network of Excellence will be important in ensuring that stroke patients receive the best care possible after they return to their home communities. Communications technology that allows patients access to clinicians and specialists reduces the need for travel and will improve health outcomes for stroke survivors.”

Gwen Gordon, Health Promotion Director for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, said, “Early rehabilitation is a key component of an integrated stroke strategy that saves lives and reduces disability. Today’s announcement is a huge step forward in providing a comprehensive approach to stroke care in Saskatchewan.”

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For more information, contact:

Jennifer Bailey
Manager, Communications
Hospitals of Regina Foundation
(306) 766-7516