Extensive research consistently finds positive connections between mental health, experiencing nature and taking breaks outdoors. That’s why The Ottawa Hospital’s new campus will have space for gardens, walking paths and contemplative areas – for patients and staff.

Mike Soloski wanted to do meaningful, hands-on volunteer work in his retirement, and he found his niche at The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre. “This was the place where I felt as though, if I need to do some payback, here’s where it’s supposed to be.”

How would you go about asking family, friends or acquaintances to donate a kidney? It’s an enormous request, and it’s not always easy. “I thought about it a lot – how I would approach somebody. You have a lot of time to think about it while on dialysis.”

He is the “go-to” doctor in the Ottawa area for treating pregnant women with kidney disease. And patients like Dawn Lau are grateful to Dr. Ayub Akbari for his supportive, attentive, responsive care that even includes handing out his personal phone number in case patients need to reach him.

Gina Hedges remembers, not long ago, when she had to travel to Toronto just to receive treatment for her polycystic kidney disease. But that’s changing. A new centre of excellence at The Ottawa Hospital will provide access to radiologists, urologists, surgeons and others, all in one place.

One morning in 2001, Heather Harris’ right foot went numb and then the numbness spread up her entire right side. This first multiple sclerosis attack led to her taking part in a clinical trial at The Ottawa Hospital that virtually eliminated her disease, yet she was still able to give birth to a healthy baby girl.

Endometriosis is an often-misunderstood disorder that can cause women unbearable pain during their periods. Dr. Sony Singh and his team want to raise awareness among women, help health-care teams identify the disorder sooner, and improve patient outcomes.

When people first arrive at The Ottawa Hospital, research is often the last thing on their minds. Yet research gives every patient the power to improve health around the world. A new campaign called “Ask me about our research” aims to make research more visible and accessible for patients.

She has worked on some of the most high-profile diseases in recent years, including H1N1, SARS and MRSA. Now, Dr. Virginia Roth oversees the approximately 1,400 doctors at The Ottawa Hospital as the new Chief of Staff – the first female doctor to do so. “As physicians, we care very much about our patients and their specific needs.”

Technostress can interfere with your daily activities or relationships. If you feel that’s happening to you, your coping system may need the free upgrade recommended by two psychologists at The Ottawa Hospital.

Marina Moraitis was inspired to give back to The Ottawa Hospital and future patients by taking part in two world-first clinical trials – studying ‘chemo fog’ and exercise – while undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.

What’s it like going to an Ottawa Senators game in a wheelchair? How accessible is the restaurant where you are meeting your friends? How do you get there? What’s ParaTranspo? Find out how Recreational Therapists Cindy Des Lauriers and Caryn Johnston make a difference for our patients.