Obesity – now considered a chronic disease similar to diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol – is a disease people “wear,” so they’re subject to constant stigma and bias. “I often think that if I was an alcoholic, had diabetes or high blood pressure etc., people wouldn’t be able to see those conditions and then judge me for my perceived health status,” explained Candace Vilhan.

Dr. Neil Reaume walked into the exam room, greeted patient John Richichi, tapped his ID badge against a small black box near the computer screen and up popped the latest CAT scan. Thanks to this innovative new ‘follow-me computing’ system, doctors in The Ottawa Hospital’s Cancer Centre can spend more quality time with patients.

When Dr. Clare Liddy shared with Dr. Erin Keely that one of her patients had to wait for more than nine months for an appointment with a specialist, they agreed this was too long. Together, they developed eConsult – and the electronic wait-time solution is spreading across Canada and around the world.

Sailing is a life-long love affair for Peter Juryn that began when was nine years old. Unfortunately, the medication he takes for Parkinson’s disease was making it harder to do the things he loves.

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.

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.