Oshawa-based Lakeridge Heath honoured for organ and tissue transplant work

Lakeridge Health has been recognized with three awards from Trillium Gift of Life Network – Ontario’s organ and tissue donation agency – as part of their 2022/2023 Hospital Achievement Awards.

One of those honours was the Award of Excellence, which was handed out to just seven hospitals in Ontario.

Lakeridge Health supported five organ donors over the past year, leading to 22 organ transplants and saving 18 lives. Additionally, there were 94 tissue donors, enhancing the lives of many others.

In recognition of this work, Lakeridge Health was presented the Provincial Conversion Rate Award for meeting or exceeding the target percentage of potential organ donors who went on to become actual donors set by the Trillium Gift of Life Network, which is now part of Ontario Health.

This is Lakeridge Health’s seventh time receiving this award.

Lakeridge Health received the Award of Excellence for meeting or exceeding the provincial conversion rate target for four or more consecutive years – demonstrating an “outstanding commitment” to the implementation of donation leading practices, said Chief of Staff Randy Wax.

“We are so proud of our teams here at Lakeridge Health for the work they do to make an impact in organ and tissue donation in Ontario, while demonstrating the highest level of compassion and care for individuals and families in challenging circumstances,” he said. “We are committed to educating and raising awareness for organ and tissue donation as the need for donors grows in Ontario.”

As well, for the third time, Lakeridge Health received the Provincial Eligible Approach Rate Award. This award recognizes hospitals for demonstrating leading practices by facilitating an organ donation discussion with eligible patients and their families at end of life. Lakeridge Health has achieved a 100 per cent eligible approach rate – exceeding the target of 90 per cent set by TGLN.

“Organ and tissue donation is an incredible act of selflessness, and we thank and honour the individuals and families who made the life-saving decision to give the gift of life,” added Cynthia Davis, Lakeridge Health President and CEO. “It’s remarkable to witness this generosity, and the immense difference it makes in the lives of those in need.”

Rebecca Cooper, the Vice President, Ontario Renal Network and Trillium Gift of Life Network, said the Oshawa-based hospital group has made an “outstanding contribution” to organ and tissue donation in Ontario.

“By ensuring that the wishes of donors are realized, we honour their selflessness and the legacy they intend to leave behind. Every Ontarian has the potential to save or significantly enhance a life one day by registering at BeADonor.ca and speaking to their family about their donation decision.”