Ross Memorial Hospital

What's New

"On The Horizon" Dialysis Campaign

“We heard from so many patients and their families that this vital service seemed to be so close to happening, but yet so very far away. They knew it was on the horizon, but they wanted to make it happen today. Today is that day.”

Ivan Reynolds, Foundation Board Chair
Dialysis Groundbreaking Oct. 11, 2007

Thanks to the generous support of our community, the RMH Foundation has raised 85% of its total campaign goal of $2.2 million! As we watch work progress on the new Dialysis Unit, the momentum for this community effort grows. Every day we watch the structure take shape -- and every day, we're one step closer to providing this life-saving treatment here in our own community.

Work on the permanent Dialysis Unit began in October. Only 5 months later, the outer structure was complete, and work on the interior of the building was underway. A glass "curtain wall" will make up the exterior shell of the building, and an intricate mechanical network will be incorporated into the walls and floor in order to support the equipment required in the new unit. When the 15 station unit is fully operational, it will accommodate 90 local dialysis units.

The RMH Foundation continues to receive donations from the community for this project. With a pledge of $500,000 -- the RMH Auxiliary is the lead contributor to the Foundation's "On the Horizon" campaign.

The Big Picture

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a growing problem in our community. A recent study shows that by 2010, our region (Central East LHIN) will have the highest number of dialysis patients in the Greater Toronto Area. That’s due to our aging population.

We all lose kidney function with age. Dr. Garth Hanson is a nephrologist with the Regional Renal Program based in Peterborough. He says, once we pass 30, we lose 10% of our kidney function per decade. When only 30% of the kidney is left functioning, the kidney will eventually fail, “like an engine revving too hard”, Dr. Hanson says. At that point, the patient will either need
dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Early intervention of chronic kidney disease is key. The Central East LHIN is establishing CKD Early Intervention & Outreach Programs that will help to screen people at risk, so they can take the necessary steps to prevent further damage to their kidneys.

Welcome to Your Hospital!