Hello, Boozhoo, Bonjour.

To start, I would like to welcome all new staff and professional staff that have joined our Hospital and Health Research Institute community — we are thrilled you are here! We look forward to working together, learning with you and benefitting from your energy and fresh perspectives. I know you will embrace your position with dedication and help us move towards our vision of exceptional care for every patient, every time. 

I’d like to start with some good news. There was a wonderful announcement this week with the Family CARE Grants media event on April 29^th to announce the results of the applications submitted.  We are immensely appreciative of how the money from donors helps to extend Patient Centred Care and our vision of Exceptional care for every patient every time. 74 grants were approved by the Foundation and its Board of Directors for a total of $139,265.99. Further to this, through formal request, the Foundation will now review and assess the Hospital and Health Research Institutes’ submissions for critical equipment, and improvements in support of better care and research. Last year we were grateful that the Foundation provided close to $6.8 million in 2024 for various equipment and other care improvements. We look forward to what this partnership will bring throughout 2025.

Thank you to the donors in the community and to the committee for their work in overseeing this extensive process. Thank you also to the countless staff who took time out of their busy schedules to submit applications. It is truly impressive to see the passion in the ideas brought forward from frontline staff that will improve the care experience at our Hospital.

On now to patient capacity and the flow of patients throughout our facility – essential factors for providing appropriate care in suitable spaces. Through the coordination of the Patient Flow team, and the collective efforts of the Hospitalists, the CDU Unit, and all Allied Health Care teams, there have been significant changes and improvements to support patient flow both into and out of our facility. Teams have been working hard to transfer any patients from the Emergency Department to a bed and we are seeing great progress, resulting in a decreased length of stay for these patients. We know that teamwork is essential in seeing these results and thank you to the many involved to make sure patient care is optimal and efficiently managed.    

As we continue to transform the care we provide to support the growing healthcare demands in our community, you will see many alterations in our facility and throughout the Hospital campus. Although these activities are inconvenient, they are essential to getting to where we need to be. I want to reassure you the teams are continually assessing the impacts and logistics of these activities to minimize disruptions where able. Your patience and support in keeping patients and families informed on these changes is an important part of the care experience. Please know you can keep current on these happenings through the Daily Informed Newsletter, our monthly all staff Town Hall, our website or any of our social media platforms, as well as direct updates from the Capital Planning team

I would like to wrap this blog up by recognizing our extraordinary volunteers throughout our Hospital, the Health Research Institute and the Health Sciences Foundation. National Volunteer Week is April 27th to May 3rd and this week of recognition is certainly not enough to celebrate all those who provide precious time to support so many of our operations and provide their time, expertise and compassion to make our community a better place to be. Thank you for all that you do. 

Please know you can always send me any feedback about this blog or connect with me on anything else on your mind. Feel free to reach out to me at rhonda.ellacott@tbh.net. I appreciate hearing from you.

Every day, our physicians demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to caring for patients and fostering a healthier community. National Physicians’ Day — celebrated every year on May 1st — gives us an opportunity to acknowledge their exceptional skill, professionalism, and heartfelt compassion that shines through daily, whether in routine situations or during challenging times.

We sincerely thank all physicians for their unwavering dedication to patient care. Your efforts in saving lives and enhancing the well-being of our community are truly remarkable. We appreciate your invaluable contributions, which help us deliver exceptional care to every patient, every time.

National Physicians’ Day Shout Outs

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 Bianca Zussino.

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Bianca Zussino is a third-year biology and neuroscience student at Lakehead University with aspirations to pursue a career in medicine. In addition to her academic studies, she is currently a neurogastroenterology research intern with Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Bianca is also a dedicated volunteer in her community, working with organizations such as the Children’s Aid Society, St. Joseph’s Care Group, and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Her volunteer role at TBRHSC involves serving as a Patient Family Advisor (PFA), where she advocates for the patient perspective to drive positive change within the institution.

Her motivation for volunteering in this capacity is rooted in her personal health challenges. Through her experiences, Bianca learned the importance of self-advocacy and the significant impact it can have on one’s health journey. She witnessed both the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and decided to pursue a role as a Patient Family Advisor (PFA) in order to contribute to meaningful change. In her current position, Bianca serves on the Surgical and Surgical Services Board at TBRHSC, participates in monthly PFA council meetings, and shares her patient story during orientations for new staff. These opportunities have enabled her to engage in important policy discussions, contribute insights based on her personal experience, and advocate for improvements that prioritize patient-centered care.

Bianca believes that education is a powerful tool for driving change. By sharing her story, she helps new hospital staff understand the real impact of patient-centered care. Her experience highlights both the strengths and areas for improvement in the healthcare system, underscoring the need for empathy, effective communication, and strong advocacy in improving patient experiences.

As a PFA, Bianca is passionate about helping future patients navigate the healthcare system. Her own experience allows her to relate to the challenges patients face, and she believes her perspective can help improve the overall experience for others. For Bianca, the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others is incredibly rewarding. Through her involvement, she hopes to contribute to a more compassionate and efficient healthcare system for future patients.

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See the poster below for information regarding registering for your Perkopolis account and all the amazing perks available to you!

To view the full listing of affinity list member please visit: https://informed.tbrhsc.net/departments/human-resources/employee-recognition/affinity-program

Shared on behalf of Dawna Perry, Senior Director, Nursing, Academics and Practice Excellence

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I am pleased to announce that Leanne Baird has accepted the role of Simulation Program Manager.

Leanne brings more than 15 years of experience in education, healthcare, and simulation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Bachelor of Education from Lakehead University.

Since joining TBRHSC, Leanne has been instrumental in advancing simulation-based education, coordinating training programs, managing simulation technologies, and contributing to quality improvement initiatives.

In her role as Simulation Technologist, she collaborated closely with multidisciplinary teams on a range of projects, including supporting the simulation component for the Regional Pediatric Transport Team training. Throughout her work, Leanne has demonstrated a strong commitment to collaboration, education, and patient safety. In her new role, Leanne will work alongside the Medical Leads for Simulation (Dr. Rosie North, Dr. Sonja Lubbers, and Dr. Aaron Ruberto) to lead the continued growth of our Simulation Program. She will focus on collaborating with teams across all departments to expand simulation’s role in education, quality improvement, and clinical excellence across the organization.

Please join me in congratulating Leanne and welcoming her to her new leadership position.

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 Alexis S.

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Alexis has come a long way since first stepping foot in Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). What started as a participation in Project Search, a unique school-to-work training program for students with disabilities, has blossomed into a fulfilling journey of volunteerism that has helped her grow both personally and professionally. Now, as a dedicated volunteer in the Housekeeping and Portering departments, Alexis is also balancing her education as a student at Confederation College, showing that her commitment to service and learning knows no bounds.

The Project Search program, which focuses on preparing young adults for competitive employment, was where Alexis’ volunteer journey began. During her time in the program, Alexis was immersed in hands-on training, learning essential work skills that would set her up for future success. The partnership between TBRHSC and Thunder Bay high schools was a critical stepping stone for Alexis, offering an inclusive opportunity that provided both education and practical work experience.

After completing the program, Alexis didn’t stop there. She continued her work as a volunteer in the Laundry Department, helping ensure clean linens for patients and staff alike. Her dedication to the role was evident, as she took pride in the vital part she played in maintaining hospital operations behind the scenes.

Her journey didn’t stop at laundry; with a change in her school schedule Alexis began volunteering in Housekeeping and Portering, two key areas that are essential for the Hospital’s day-to-day operations. In these roles, Alexis is responsible for maintaining cleanliness in various departments. While these responsibilities may seem demanding, Alexis approaches them with a cheerful attitude and a strong work ethic. She greets everyone with a smile and is know by name all around the Hospital.

“I’ve learned so much working in these areas,” Alexis shared. “It’s all about being organized, paying attention to the details, and making sure everyone feels comfortable and safe. I love that I can help make a difference.”

Beyond her work at TBRHSC, Alexis is currently a student at Confederation College, where she is pursuing further education to expand her career opportunities. Balancing her studies with volunteer work speaks volumes about Alexis’ dedication to both personal growth and giving back to her community. Her role as a volunteer has not only enriched her education but has also shaped her understanding of the healthcare system and patient care.

Alexis’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact that volunteerism can have, not just on a community, but also on the individual volunteer. Her story shows how opportunities for growth, and service can shape a young person’s future and set them on a path to success.

TBRHSC has benefitted from Alexis’ dedication, and she has undoubtedly benefitted from the many lessons learned along the way. As she continues her education and volunteer work, Alexis is a shining example of how service to others can pave the way for both personal and professional growth.

Shared on behalf of the Offices of the Chief of Staff & Medical and Academic Affairs 

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At Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC), our physicians are at the heart of patient care and academic excellence. Tomorrow on May 1st, we celebrate and honour their tireless commitment, clinical leadership, and compassion in service to our community and region.

Thank a Doc

Send your message of appreciation!

Colleagues, learners, and staff are invited to share words of thanks, reflections, or stories of impact.

➡️ Email your message to:
📧 TBRHSC.medicalaffairs@tbh.net

Your messages will be shared with professional staff throughout this week in celebration of their work.

Thank you to all physicians at TBRHSC for your continued leadership and dedication.

You make a difference — every patient, every day.

Check out these local events to honour Red Dress Day on May 5. Red Dress Day is the National Day of Action and Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Gender Diverse people .

Join Beendigen & Shelter House this Red Dress Day for a MMIWG2S+ Memorial Walk & Vigil. The event will begin at 12 p.m. on Monday May 5, at Marina Park. See below for more details.

Fort William First Nation invites you to a community walk in honor of MMIW. The event will begin at 4:30 p.m. at the Youth Centre on Fort William First Nation. See below for more details.

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.

Please send your experiences to Annette Klement, Cultural Safety Educator at TBRHSC.CulturalSafetyEducator@tbh.net.

(Via the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation)

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.