As we celebrate Indigenous Nurses Day (May 12), we want to recognize the significant contributions of Indigenous nurses to the healthcare industry.
In honour of this special day, we would like to highlight the achievements of Indigenous nurses and their home communities. Their expertise and dedication have significantly impacted the lives of many patients and their families, inspiring others and raising awareness of the critical role that Indigenous nurses play in promoting wellness and healing for Indigenous communities.
If you are an Indigenous nurse or nursing student, or know someone who is, we would love to hear from you! Please share your experiences, challenges, successes, or quotes as a health care provider by Friday, May 2. The submissions will be featured at a booth on Indigenous Nurses Day, and will include a photo of the nurse or student along with the information they provide. If you are interested in participating, please send your email and phone number to Annette Klement.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment to health care. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Thanks to donor generosity, frontline staff at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre celebrated 74 new Family CARE Grant projects all focused on improving care for patients and families.
Every day, frontline staff at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre see firsthand the small changes that could make a big impact on patient care. Thanks to the Family CARE (Care Advancement Recommended by Employees) Grants program, they have the chance to turn those ideas into reality. Now in its 16th year, the Family CARE Grants program continues to empower hospital staff to implement meaningful improvements that enhance both patient care and their working environment. This year, 74 grants have been awarded, totaling $139,265.00, thanks to the generous support of donors, including a $15,000 contribution from the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Volunteer Association. These funds are supporting the purchase of a range of equipment, comfort items, and tools, all chosen to make a real difference for patients and healthcare providers. While each grant may seem small on its own, their combined impact is significant.
“Year after year, the Family CARE Grants program continues to make a meaningful difference, one grant at a time,” says Barry Streib, Director of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation and Chair of the selection committee. “It’s truly inspiring to see the care and creativity hospital staff put into finding new ways to support patients. This program helps turn those ideas into real improvements, making the hospital experience better for staff, patients and families in so many meaningful ways.”Dr. Rhonda Crocker Ellacott, President and CEO of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and CEO of Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, expressed appreciation to staff for submitting ideas and funding applications to enhance patients’ and their families’ experiences. “Each year, I am impressed with the innovative ideas submitted to the Family CARE Grants program. Applications from staff reflect their commitment to better the care experience for patients and families. Thank you to the Foundation and the donors for supporting our vision of exceptional care for every patient, every time.”Some of the items making a difference this year include:
Four updated lead aprons for X-Ray Diagnostic Imaging will provide safer, more comfortable protection for caregivers, especially when assisting paediatric patients during exams. Unlike the outdated versions, these aprons feature adjustable straps, buckle closures, and attached thyroid collars for a secure fit and improved radiation protection.
Four Buzzy Needle Pain Relief devices for Paediatrics, shaped like a bee or ladybug, use vibration and cold to distract patients, particularly children during needle procedures, helping to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety.
A recumbent stationary bike will offer safe, low-impact exercise for bariatric patients, providing onsite education and support to help families, especially from northern communities, gain confidence for at-home or community-based exercise.
Five Williams Sound Pocketalkers for Utilization and Patient Flow will amplify sound and reduce background noise, helping hard-of-hearing patients clearly hear important information about their care.
A new VersaScope Camera for Telemedicine will enhance patient care by providing high-resolution, real-time images to remote specialists. It enables accurate assessments of skin, wounds, burns, veins, oral airways, neurological conditions, and joint range of motion, ensuring better diagnoses and treatment.
For ICU patients who are intubated or tracheostomized, communication barriers can cause frustration, anxiety, and isolation. Twenty-two Boogie Reusable Writing Boards will help give these patients a voice, with an erasable surface and stylus-compatible design that make it easier to express needs, feelings, and concerns, easing emotional stress during care. “Improved communication can lead to better assessment of patient comfort, more accurate pain management, and enhanced emotional support from healthcare providers,” says Vanessa Kroeker, PT, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. “When not in use by patients, these boards also become a helpful tool for nurses, allowing them to quickly jot down vital signs and critical information at the bedside to support efficient patient care. ”These are just some of the examples of how ‘the little things’ can help enhance better patient care at the hospital. See the full list of 2024-2025 grants here: healthsciencesfoundation.ca/familycare.
During National Volunteer Week, we will be spotlighting volunteers to highlight the important roles they play at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Today’s spotlight shines on Suman D’souza.
Suman D’souza, a dedicated volunteer with the Patient Experience Survey Program at TBRHSC, is wrapping up an inspiring chapter of service to the community. His remarkable work in the program, combined with his years of service in security TBRHSC has earned him a spot with the Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P.) — a new role that he’s very excited about.
Suman’s journey into volunteering began after three years of working in security, where he honed his skills in observation, crisis management, and providing a sense of safety to those around him. He soon realized that his passion for helping people went beyond just keeping spaces secure. Wanting to make a direct impact on the lives of patients, he joined the Hospital’s Patient Experience Survey Program, an initiative that gathers feedback from patients to help improve hospital services.
“I’ve always wanted to help in ways that truly matter, and this program allowed me to do just that. Listening to patients, understanding their concerns, and helping make their experience better – it’s been incredibly rewarding,” said Suman. His warm and approachable demeanor made him a natural fit for the role. As part of the program, Suman visited patient rooms, conducting surveys and engaging in meaningful conversations. His ability to connect with patients and create a sense of comfort, even in difficult times, was noticed by both staff and patients alike.
His volunteer work provided invaluable feedback that helped the Hospital make key adjustments to improve patient satisfaction and care protocols. He was also instrumental in providing a friendly face during what could often be a stressful experience for patients.
As Suman moves on to his next venture with the Ontario Provincial Police, his colleagues at the hospital reflect on the lasting impact he has had. We know he will bring the same level of commitment and care to his new role. The community is lucky to have someone like him.
For Suman, the transition from volunteer to law enforcement represents a long-held dream. “Being in security sparked my interest in law enforcement, and now I’m taking that next step. I’m excited to continue serving my community in a new capacity,” he said. His time with the hospital has only reinforced his desire to protect and serve those in need, whether in a hospital setting or on the front lines of law enforcement.
As he prepares for his new role with the O.P.P., Suman leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and dedication at TBRHSC. The Hospital and its patients will surely miss his calm presence, but his future in law enforcement looks bright.
For those who’ve crossed paths with Suman, one thing is clear – wherever he goes, his dedication to helping others will undoubtedly continue to shine.
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Steering Committee invites all staff, professional staff, learners, and volunteers to join the Pride Working Group.
If you would like to be involved in planning and participating in Pride month activities, please reach out to the EDI Steering Committee by end of day, Friday, May 9, 2025 at: tbrhsc.edisteeringcommittee@tbh.net.
Volunteers are crucial to the success of any organization and serve as a vital connection to the community.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week (April 27 – May 3), we sincerely thank all Hospital volunteers, Patient Family Advisors, and Health Sciences Foundation volunteers. Over the past two decades, your invaluable contributions have significantly enhanced health care for patients and families across Northwestern Ontario. Thank you for dedicating your time, energy, and skills to serve our community. Your efforts truly transform the patient experience.
If you see a volunteer wearing a green lanyard this week, please take a moment to say thank you! During National Volunteer Week, we will be highlighting some of the dedicated volunteers at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Check in for updates!
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre regularly evaluates the performance of our benefit plans and premiums to ensure the long-term sustainability of the plan, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. A recent review of the plan indicated an adjustment of 3% to premiums are required to adjust for utilization and inflation.
How This Affects You:The average adjustment to employee premiums for combined single coverage is $1.35/ month and $3.66/month for combined family coverage. For employees with Green Shield coverage, the new premiums will be effective May 1 and reflected on your May 8 pay.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we navigate these changes. Our goal is to continue offering you high-quality benefits that help support your health and well-being. If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources at TBRHSC.HumanResources@tbh.net.
As part of our target to complete a twice-annual collection of Fan-Out information, leaders have been advised that updated Fan-Out Excels are due by Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
We’re holding two virtual drop-in sessions to support a smooth update cycle to learn more about Fan Out (EMER-110). If you have questions related to completing your updates, please refer to the Emergency Fan-out Reference Guide 7.0 and consider joining one of the 30-minute sessions taking place:
If you or a member of your team has questions or would like a calendar invite for one of the virtual sessions noted above, please contact Mēsha Richard, Lead, Emergency Preparedness, at extension 6552 or mesha.richard@tbh.net.
