“Urology—and healthcare more broadly—never stops evolving. Being part of that journey here at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ has been incredibly rewarding,” says Dr. Barkin.

How did you get into urology?Ěý

I graduated from medical school in 1977, drawn to surgery because I’ve always loved working with my hands—whether building something in the workshop or performing intricate procedures in the operating room.Ěý

During my surgical internship, I observed urologists who could seamlessly shift from large, complex surgeries to delicate endoscopic procedures, all while forming deep, respectful connections with their patients. Their work showed me that urology was a specialty defined not only by technique and technology, but by empathy and trust. It was everything I wanted in my medical career.Ěý

What has kept you passionate about Urology over the years?Ěý

Urology—and healthcare more broadly—never stops evolving. Being part of that journey here at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ has been incredibly rewarding. Urology combines different specialties—thoracic, general, and gynecologic surgery—allowing for comprehensive patient care. Over the decades, I’ve watched Humber embrace minimally invasive procedures and cutting-edge robotics, always focusing on delivering better outcomes, faster recoveries, and more equitable care.Ěý

The constant challenge of pushing medical frontiers, staying nimble, and responding to our community’s changing needs is what fuels my passion. Urology is not static; it’s a living, breathing field that requires continuous learning and adaptation—a perfect match for my own drive to innovate and improve.

“I’m proud of pioneering several key procedures at Humber, one of which was HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate), a procedure which significantly improved patient outcomes and set new standards for minimally invasive urological treatments,” says Dr. Barkin.

Ěý

What do you hope for the future of urology at Humber?Ěý

My vision for ÍřşěşÚÁĎ’s Urology Program is rooted in a mission to continually advance Canadian healthcare, ensuring that every patient has access to world-class treatment. I hope Humber continues to lead in urology through innovation, comprehensive training, and a commitment to exceptional patient care. It’s critical that we maintain our leadership in urological research and education with robust training programs and fellowships, ensuring that we’re always at the cutting edge of surgical techniques and patient management.Ěý

“A major turning point was helping to bring in the da Vinci Si surgical robot to Humber in 2012, and then updating our equipment to the da Vinci Xi in 2022, broadening our surgical capabilities even further,” says Dr. Barkin. “This progression in robotic technology has had profound effects—more precise surgeries, shorter hospital stays, and, ultimately, better outcomes for patients.”

As we move forward, I see even more opportunities to expand our minimally invasive and robotic approaches, broadening our multidisciplinary, holistic care models to reduce wait times, improve patient experiences, and benefit communities both near and far. With our pioneering work in advanced surgical robotics, our focus on a patient-first philosophy, and our lean, green, digital infrastructure, Humber is poised to not only remain at the forefront of urology, but to help set a new standard for excellence, efficiency, and equity in healthcare across the country.Ěý

Can you share some of the most memorable milestones in your career?Ěý

One of the earliest milestones that stands out is becoming the first community-based urologist in Canada to conduct a clinical trial outside of a teaching hospital. That achievement really opened the door to more innovative work in a community setting, demonstrating that excellent research and advanced care don’t have to be confined to traditional academic centers.Ěý

“It’s been incredibly meaningful to see our work recognized by the very community we serve,” says Dr. Barkin. “The Community Builders Tribute fundraising events hosted by IC Savings helped raise much-needed funds for our Urology and Robotics programs.”

I’m also proud of pioneering several key procedures at Humber. Humber was the first Hospital in Canada to use Blue Light Cystoscopy for cancer detection in the urinary tract and bladder. We also introduced Greenlight Laser and later HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate), both of which significantly improved patient outcomes and set new standards for minimally invasive urological treatments.Ěý

Another major turning point was helping to bring in the da Vinci Si surgical robot to Humber in 2012, and then updating our equipment to the in 2022, broadening our surgical capabilities even further. This progression in robotic technology has had profound effects—more precise surgeries, shorter hospital stays, and, ultimately, better outcomes for patients.Ěý

Receiving the 2022 Doctor of Philanthropy Award at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ’s River Ball was a special honour,” says Dr. Barkin. “Moments like these remind me that our efforts extend far beyond the operating room. It’s about creating a lasting legacy, enhancing the standard of care, and giving back to the community that stands behind us.”

On a personal level, it’s been incredibly meaningful to see our work recognized by the very community we serve. Receiving the at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ’s River Ball was a special honour, as were the fundraising events that helped raise much-needed funds for our Urology and Robotics programs. Moments like these remind me that our efforts extend far beyond the operating room. It’s about creating a lasting legacy, enhancing the standard of care, and giving back to the community that stands behind us.Ěý

What advice would you give to future urologists?Ěý

Always put patients first and listen to what your patients are saying—let that be your guiding principle. Stay curious, adapt to change, and embrace new technologies. Whether it’s introducing an advanced robotic system or exploring other innovative technologies, we’re continuously evolving to meet the needs of our community.Ěý

Work collaboratively, get involved with the hospital and look for ways to improve the system, not just your corner of it. Healthcare Lives when we put patients at the center, invest in innovation, and share what we learn with others.Ěý

That’s how we keep the promise of quality universal healthcare alive. By doing this, you won’t just be refining your surgical skills; you’ll be helping to shape the future of healthcare in Canada.Ěý

The post Interview: Dr. Jack Barkin, Urologist appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

Fernando was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition commonly affecting men as they age. After being referred to referred to Dr. Olivier Heimrath, the recommended solution was Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), a procedure that involves removing the enlarged part of the prostate using a laser.

As a senior, Fernando has been proactive about his health checks, which prompted his family doctor to refer him to Urologist, . After a few visits, Fernando was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition commonly affecting men as they age.Ěý

The recommended solution was Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), a procedure that involves removing the enlarged part of the prostate using a laser. HoLEP is known for its precision and minimal invasiveness, which leads to a quicker recovery compared to traditional methods.Ěý

Fernando was initially apprehensive about the surgery. “The thought of undergoing the procedure was daunting,” says Fernando. He was eventually referred to , a skilled Urologist at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ, who provided thorough explanations and reassured him about the procedure’s safety and effectiveness.Ěý

Post-surgery, Fernando found relief in his recovery. “The recover time after the surgery was minimal! I couldn’t believe it,” says Fernando.Ěý

Fernando’s positive experience was not just due to the success of the surgery but also the compassionate care he received. “Dr. Heimrath and the medical team were amazing. Their support made all the difference,” says Fernando. This care extended beyond the procedure, as the staff and nurses provided guidance and encouragement throughout his recovery.Ěý

Fernando shared the importance of listening to your body and seeking timely medical advice. “Don’t ignore the signs,” says Fernando. “Seeking medical help early can make a big difference.”Ěý

Today, Fernando continues to pursue one of his many passions. Both him and his wife have a significant involvement in the world of ballet where their efforts are focused on promoting ballet education, and supporting young dancers through scholarship opportunities and competitions.Ěý

“I’m grateful for the support of my family, and the excellent care from Dr. Heimrath and the urology team at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ,” says Fernando.Ěý

The post Finding Relief with HoLEP: Fernando’s Story appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

Mike and Dr. Kong’s relationship goes deeper than just a patient-doctor relationship. According to Mike, Ěý“It is a friendship I greatly value”.

For Mike, it was more than an act of kindness that motivated him to become a grateful donor. The touching compassion and immense dedication from his urologist, , and the wonderful work of his care team at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ helped make that decision an easy one.

Two decades ago, after his initial prostate cancer surgery with Dr. Kong, Mike decided to stay with him as a regular patient. To this day, they continue to maintain a strong relationship through regular check-ins and personalized care.

Over the years, Dr. Kong has since explained to Mike the need for the implementation of innovative robotic technologies at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ and how its impact would greatly benefit the wider community. For instance, when it comes to urology, the provides minimally invasive procedures, offering a faster recovery time for patients undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.

While these procedures were not available to Mike at the time of his procedure, Dr. Kong explained to him that future patients would come to realize the benefits of the newest technology on the market.

“He told me that if I was thinking about donating, I should consider robotics,” says Mike. “He helped me to understand how it will help patients and I credit him heavily for that.”

“I am very passionate about raising money for this cause,” says Mike. “I will always be an advocate for both Dr. Kong and the Urology Department for as long as I can.”

Mike is a true advocate for Humber, saying he would do everything in his power to help raise funds needed towards expanding our robotics program.

Mike was an avid member of the Association of Padre Pio and still an active supporter of the Ciociaro Social Club. Through annual contributions, personal fundraising, raffle dinners, and other fundraising events, he has been a champion throughout the community when it comes to spreading awareness and raising funds for ÍřşěşÚÁĎ.

“I am very passionate about raising money for this cause,” says Mike. “I will always be an advocate for both Dr. Kong and the Urology Department for as long as I can.”

Mike and Dr. Kong’s relationship goes deeper than just a patient-doctor relationship. According to Mike, Ěý“It is a friendship I greatly value”.

Until this day, if Mike needs medical advice, no matter the concern, he turns to Dr. Kong. “It’s always under the guise of “I need a medical opinion,” but it’s not really an opinion he’s looking for. He’s looking for a friend to talk to.”

Mike is forever grateful to Dr. Kong for his unwavering kindness and compassion over the years. In the words of Mike, “To be a good doctor, you have to be a good person.” We, at the Foundation, are forever grateful to Mike and his dedication to community healthcare.

The post Beyond Medicine: Mike’s Championing Story appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

“I’ve already recommended HoLEP at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ to a number of friends,” says Roger. “I’m grateful for my wonderful experience.”

“I started having trouble initiating the flow and then the urine would come out slowly,” says Roger. “My family doctor at the time put me on medication but after a year, I realized it wasn’t improving my symptoms.”

When the frequency of his long trips to the bathroom increased – forcing Roger to get up four times a night – he knew something had to change.

“I had a new family doctor by then, and he asked if I had ever been referred to a Urologist,” says Roger. “He referred me to at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ.”

Dr. Barkin ordered a cystoscopy, a procedure that allows doctors to look inside the bladder and urethra. This confirmed that Roger’s prostate had grown, creating a very narrow space for urine flow.

Roger wasn’t alone – enlarged prostates nearly half of 50 year old men and 80% of 80 year old men.

Dr. Barkin walked Roger through some of his current options, but also told him about a new procedure called , Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate, that was coming soon to Humber, a less invasive solution for men with very large benign prostates that previously would have required an open operation.

ÍřşěşÚÁĎ became the first hospital in the Greater Toronto Area offering this life-changing, minimally invasive procedure, under the leadership of Dr. Olivier Heimrath, Dr. Jack Barkin, and Dr. Luke Fazio.

Roger quickly agreed to be one of the first HoLEP patients at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ, which in November, became the first hospital in the Greater Toronto Area offering this life-changing, minimally invasive procedure, under the leadership of , Dr. Jack Barkin, and .

“Dr. Barkin knew what he was doing so I wasn’t nervous,” says Roger. “He was very open to answering all of my questions before and after my operation. Everything went smoothly and I went home with friends the same day as my procedure. The whole team was very attentive.”

Roger’s relief was immediate. Following his treatment at Humber, his urine was flowing well and he was surprised that he experienced no pain throughout the healing process.

“I was prescribed Tylenol, but ended up experiencing absolutely no pain at all,” says Roger. “The only thing that was uncomfortable was the catheter I wore for a couple of days.”

The key to making HoLEP a non-invasive procedure was the addition of a piece of equipment called the Morcellator – a machine used to break up and remove pieces of the prostate. Our donors make innovative programs like HoLEP possible, and the difference is substantial for patients like Roger.

“With HoLEP, we can shorten hospital stays and perform the whole procedure without making an open cut, with much less chance of bleeding, less pain, and a faster full recovery,” says Dr. Barkin.

“With HoLEP, for patients with very large benign prostates, where the standard non-invasive route would not work, we can shorten hospital stays and perform the whole procedureĚýwithout making an open cut, with much less chance of bleeding, less pain, and a faster full recovery,” says Dr. Barkin. “It is much better for the patient and the health care system.”

“I’ve already recommended HoLEP at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ to a number of friends,” says Roger. “I’m grateful for my wonderful experience.”

The post Immediate Relief Thanks to HoLEP Laser Prostate Surgery: Roger’s Story appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

The new HoLEP procedure at Humber is a minimally invasive approach that can treat large benign prostate cases, without the need for an incision.

Today, ÍřşěşÚÁĎ became the first Hospital in the Greater Toronto Area to offer HoLEP, a minimally invasive treatment for enlarged prostates.

“Enlarged prostates, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, is a problem that affects nearly all men in their lifetime,” says Dr. Olivier Heimrath, Urologist at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ. “HoLEP offers a minimally invasive solution for those with larger prostates.”

Prostates naturally enlarge as men age, which can lead to increased difficulty urinating — and, in some cases, the complete inability to urinate.

BPH is a widespread issue, affecting half of 50 year old men and 80% of 80 year old men. But up until now, minimally invasive treatments in the GTA were only available for men with smaller prostates (think: the size of a small plum) – The only option for men with larger prostates (for example, the size of a grapefruit) was an open prostatectomy, which can come with increased medical risks, more blood loss, and longer stays in-hospital.

The new HoLEP procedure at Humber (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is a minimally invasive approach that can treat these large benign prostate cases, without the need for an incision from the outside. In this procedure, Urologists employ a powerful laser to eliminate the extra tissue from the prostate that is blocking urine flow, a process known as ‘enucleation’. After enucleation, the prostate tissue is removed by the surgeons using a piece of equipment called a Piranha Morcellator. This breaks down the tissue into smaller pieces. These smaller pieces can then be gently removed through the urethra.

Under the leadership of Dr. Olivier Heimrath, Dr. Jack Barkin, and Dr. Luke Fazio, ÍřşěşÚÁĎ is the first hospital in the Greater Toronto Area to offer this life-changing procedure to the patients who need it most.

Under the leadership of Dr. Olivier Heimrath, Dr. Jack Barkin, and Dr. Luke Fazio, ÍřşěşÚÁĎ is the first hospital in the Greater Toronto Area to offer this life-changing procedure to the patients who need it most.

The difference will be substantial for our patients: Patients benefiting from the HoLEP procedure at Humber will experience less pain, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays than those receiving the traditional open surgery.

“With this new HoLEP procedure, we can shorten hospital stays and perform the whole procedure without making an open cut, with much less chance of bleeding, less pain, and a faster full recovery,” says , who performed the first HoLEP procedure at Humber with Drs. Heimrath and Fazio. “It is much better for the patient and the health care system.”

“Bringing HoLEP to Humber coincides well with our new fleet of lasers,” says Dr. Luke Fazio, Division Head of Urology. “It’s the next step in the evolution of treatment for enlarged prostates. I’m proud that we are now able to offer a procedure that hasn’t been widely available in our province that will be helping a large volume of patients.”

“HoLEP the next step in the evolution of treatment for enlarged prostates,” says Dr. Luke Fazio.

As this program matures, the HoLEP procedure at Humber will allow patients to get back to life sooner by:

• Shifting the standard of care from a surgery requiring two days in-hospital to a minimally-invasive procedure with same-day discharge
• Enhancing safety measures, minimizing blood loss, and achieving exceptional outcomes
• Employing minimally invasive techniques without compromising precision

“HoLEP is at the forefront of care and it’s nice to work at a hospital where we can offer the most advanced procedures,” says Dr. Heimrath. “As surgeons, it’s our job to help people, and this is the best equipment to get this done.”

Innovative programs like HoLEP are made possible by our donors. Today we would like to thank the Maxwell and Ruth Leroy Foundation for their leadership donation to this exciting new program.

The post ÍřşěşÚÁĎ Brings Minimally-Invasive HoLEP Prostate Surgery to the GTA appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

The da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital.

Back in Toronto, his family physician eventually scheduled an urgent colonoscopy with Dr. John Hagen, which would determine if Michael had cancer.

“I was nervous, my wife was nervous,” says Michael. “But Dr. Hagen told me not to worry. He had seen patients like me many times before and suspected that it was a fistula.”

After finding Michael’s fistula and ruling out colon cancer, Dr. Hagen, formerly Chief of Surgery at Humber River, referred Michael to his former colleague Dr. Quoc Huynh.

“My first impression of Dr. Huynh was that he was a lovely person,” says Michael. “He explained my fistula and got me in line right away for a cystoscopy to rule out bladder cancer, which could have been a cause.”

“The pelvis is a very confined working space between the pelvic bones, so traditionally Michael’s surgery would have been “open” and performed laparoscopically with greater difficulty,” says Dr. Huynh. “Thanks to our donors, Michael’s case could be done with less risk.”

Dr. Huynh discovered that Michael had in fact developed two fistulas. He would need surgery, but he didn’t have cancer. He explained that using the da Vinci Surgical Robot, he would be able to perform Michael’s surgery in a much less invasive way, resulting in less pain and a shorter recovery time.

The da Vinci Surgical Robot, which is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ, was recently upgraded to the newest Xi model thanks entirely to donor support. Without this upgrade, Michael’s minimally-invasive surgery would not have been possible.

“The pelvis is a very confined working space between the pelvic bones, so traditionally Michael’s surgery would have been “open” and performed laparoscopically with greater difficulty,” says Dr. Huynh. “Thanks to our donors, Michael’s case could be done with less risk.”

“I’ve been telling everyone – If anything ever happens to you, you need to go to Humber,” says Michael. “Without the technology and expertise at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ, I would have been in a lot more pain.”

“Surgery day went really well – everyone I met at Humber was spectacular,” says Michael. “But my recovery was the most important part for me – As a portfolio manager, I was concerned about getting back to my work and my clients quickly.”

Michael’s surgery was on a Friday and he was home by Sunday. By Monday, Michael was amazed that he was able to start easing back into work, needing only Tylenol to manage his pain.

Over the next few months, he is looking forward to getting back into exercise, especially cycling.

“I’ve been telling everyone – If anything ever happens to you, you need to go to Humber,” says Michael. “Without the technology and expertise at ÍřşěşÚÁĎ, I would have been in a lot more pain, with a lot more scarring. My experience has been 10/10.”

The da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital. Michael’s surgery would not have been possible without the transformational generosity of our donors.

Expanding Robotic Surgery: da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot

ÍřşěşÚÁĎ is at the forefront of surgical innovation in Canada and with donor support, our Robotic Surgery ProgramĚýcan continue to make a difference. To learn more, please contact Caterina Magisano atĚýcmagisano@hrh.ca

The post Robotic Fistula Repair with the da Vinci Xi: Michael’s Story appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

“I love being a doctor because we care for human beings – what could be better than that?” says Dr. Abdullah Algadheeb.

Hi, I’m Dr. Abdullah Algadheeb and I’m currently completing a fellowship with Humber River Hospital’s Urology Program. I am from Saudi Arabia, and I came to Canada two years ago for a fellowship in Hamilton. I arrived at Humber River Hospital in August and will be here for a year.

What kinds of things are you training in during your Urology fellowship?

I am training in laparoscopic urology, robotic surgery using the , and endourology which includes minimally invasive procedures performed with an endoscope through the urethra.

What is the difference between minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery and surgery with the da Vinci Surgical Robot?

Both types of procedures are performed through small incisions but the da Vinci robot allows the surgeon to have a full 360° range of motion from inside the patient. During more complex cases, it gives us as surgeons the opportunity for very precise movements in deeper areas.

“The Xi is definitely an improvement from the Si,” says Dr. Algadheeb. “The most notable difference in my opinion is the docking time, the time it takes to position the robot for surgery.”

One of our current fundraising priorities is upgrading from the da Vinci Si to the da Vinci Xi. How will this make a difference to the surgeons who use the robot?

The Xi is definitely an improvement from the Si. The most notable difference in my opinion is the docking time, the time it takes to position the robot for surgery. Docking time for the Si can sometimes take 20-30 minutes. The Xi uses lasers for positioning, so it takes closer to 5-10 minutes, which saves valuable OR time.

The Xi also has auto-balancing for the camera which saves even more time and improves diagnostics. This process with the Si is manual, requiring us to make adjustments throughout the surgery – with the Xi we can better focus on the procedure rather than the equipment.

What makes you proud to be part of the Urology team at Humber?

Humber River Hospital is a very exciting place to practice because its Urology Program sees a large volume of cases annually, and so this gives me the opportunity to train in a variety of types of cases. I’m learning a lot from the other Urologists, who all have different experiences and different perspectives. Our team also includes three women, which is not common at other hospitals, and means we can cater to more comfort levels.

Because of the volume, the variety, and the team I’m working with, this fellowship has offered learning opportunities I really don’t believe I could have found in any other fellowship!

“I’m learning a lot from the other Urologists, who all have different experiences and different perspectives,” says Dr. Algadheeb. “This fellowship has offered learning opportunities I really don’t believe I could have found in any other fellowship!” (Pictured: Drs. Lee, Heimreith, and Leung)

What has it been like working with Dr. Jack Barkin ()?

My advice for anyone on their way to becoming a doctor is to try to find people who can help guide you.

Dr. Barkin has been like a mentor to me. He’s been very supportive of my learning. I’ve done a number of cases with him and working with him has been amazing.

What do you love about your job?

I love being a doctor because we care for human beings – what could be better than that? After med school I was deciding between Orthopaedics and Urology. Orthopaedics is amazing, but it’s like a completely different language – it involves a lot of physics, angles, and range of motion. Urology just makes sense to me. I love how clinical the practice is, and that it is a subspecialty that offers a lot of variety.

What is something you’re looking forward to in the next year?

My wife and I want to explore Canada while we’re here! We have heard great things about Montreal and Vancouver, and we want to see Blue Mountain soon.

The da Vinci Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital.Ěý The Centre was established thanks to a transformational donation from the late Murphy and Helen Hull.

The post Interview: Dr. Abdullah Algadheeb, Urology Fellow appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

Larry Colle is a grateful patient of Dr. Luke Fazio who discovered that he had prostate cancer.

Earlier in the year, grateful patient Larry Colle visited his new family doctor for a routine check-up, after his original doctor had retired. His family doctor, Dr. G. Mankaryous had ordered a rectal ultrasound as part of his examination. The ultrasound revealed a lesion in his body, which lead to Larry needing to get a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, which is a blood test used to screen for prostate cancer. Larry’s results came back low at 2.3, but due to this, he was advised to visit Dr. Luke Fazio as a precaution.

“As soon as Dr. Fazio’s office received my results, they phoned me immediately to see me the next day. I wasn’t too worried at first because I usually see Dr. Fazio every year, but when I met with him the next day, he examined me again and sent me to get a biopsy,” Larry said.

One month later, Larry’s biopsy results came in and that was when he found out that he had prostate cancer in the immediate stage.

The Next Steps

Dr. Fazio spent at least an hour with them answering every question they had about his prognosis, the stages of cancers, different options available and more.

A few days later, Larry and his wife Teresa, met with Dr. Fazio to discuss next steps. Larry said that Dr. Fazio spent at least an hour with them answering every question they had about his prognosis, the stages of cancers, different options available and more.

“He gave a very, very detailed explanation about why we shouldn’t just monitor it since it was at an immediate stage,” Larry said. “Then he gave us pros and cons between surgery and radiation. If I chose to take the surgical route, he said he would be able to perform a minimally-invasive surgery using the da Vinci surgical robot and if I chose radiation, it would be more difficult to have surgery afterwards because my internal organs will have changed due to the radiation.”

With those two options given to Larry and Teresa, Dr. Fazio told them to think about it for the weekend. Ultimately, they decided on surgery and Larry was immediately booked to go in a week and a half later.

Post-Surgery Experience

Larry was in surgery for three and a half hours with Dr. Fazio, and thankfully, it was a successful one with no surprises.

“I was really impressed with everything post-surgery,” Larry said. “Dr. Fazio visited me first thing in the morning to check my bandages, tape and spoke to the nurses about what I needed. He also really encouraged me to start walking immediately.”

He also added that his nurses Lovelina, Sumie and Ayan were incredibly helpful too.

“They handled my medication and knew how to use it and how not to overuse it. They were there all the time checking on me and encouraging both my wife and I. It felt like I had my own cheering squad who helped me get better. It was really a team effort.”

Now, Larry is back to work and feeling much better. Overall, Larry felt like the entire process of meeting with his family doctor to post-surgery recovery was like lightning speed.

“Hearing the results of my prognosis was startling, but because of the speed in response and my surgery being set up right away, it felt like I was in more control than being caught waiting. There wasn’t a long period of time to process the news and Dr. Fazio reassured me that it was a positive prognosis, so it helped me to not panic,” Larry said.

Lovelina was one of the three nurses who received a Gift of Gratitude from Larry.

Larry Honours Dr. Fazio and Team with Gifts of Gratitude

Because Larry received exceptional care at the Hospital from the beginning to end, he and Teresa wanted to show their appreciation to Dr. Fazio, Lovelina, Sumie and Ayan, by making a donation honouring all four of them with a Gift of Gratitude. This comes with a special pin and personalized card presented to all four recipients and helps future patients to receive excellent care, like Larry.

“We were very grateful for everything the Hospital provided us with, so we made a donation,” Larry said. “Our family wants to get involved and see how we can help the Urology department, Dr. Fazio and the whole staff, and other patients as well.”

Learn More ÍřşěşÚÁĎ Gifts of Gratitude Today!

Are you grateful for the care you received at Humber River Hospital? Give a Gift of Gratitude in honour of the person or team who went above-and-beyond for you with a donation in their name. Click here to get started!

Humber River Hospital is at the forefront of surgical innovation in Canada and with donor support, we will continue to expand our Robotic Surgery Program. To learn more about how you can make a difference in expanding robotics or to make a donation, please contact Caterina Magisano at cmagisano@hrh.caĚý

The da Vinci Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital. The Centre was established thanks to a transformational donation from the late Murphy and Helen Hull.

The post Gift of Gratitude: Larry’s Story appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

An ultrasound revealed that Salima had an enlarged kidney, so her Family Doctor referred her to Urologist Dr. Peter Kong at Humber River Hospital.

Dr. Kong ordered some more tests and discovered that Salima had a ureteral obstruction. Urine wasn’t leaving her kidney properly, which was why it was so enlarged and uncomfortable.

“Dr. Kong was very nice,” says Salima. “He explained everything to me and showed me the blockage on my tests.”

Salima needed a procedure to clear the blocked area, so Dr. Kong explained that he would use the da Vinci Surgical Robot in a procedure called a robot assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty. The da Vinci would allow Dr. Kong to perform the procedure through tiny incisions with extra precision to reduce pain and improve Salima’s healing time.

“On the day of my procedure I knew I was in good hands,” says Salima. “Everyone made me feel comfortable.”

Salima was able to leave the Hospital the next day. A staff member took her down to the main floor and from there she walked to her son’s car waiting for her outside. She was delighted not to need a wheelchair.

“When I looked at where he had performed the surgery, I only had four small incisions,” says Salima. “It has already been a few months and everything looks good now. I feel much better. I would recommend Humber to anybody.”

Please note: Names have been changed for the comfort of Salima and her family.

The da Vinci Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital.Ěý The Centre was established thanks to a transformational donation from the late Murphy and Helen Hull.

The post Ureteral Obstruction: Salima’s Story appeared first on Hennick Humber Hospital Foundation.

Our Program is set apart, not just by any one technology, but by the breadth of healthcare innovations we have available at the Hospital. Here are just five ways our Urology Program is lighting new ways in healthcare:

The da Vinci Surgical Robot: Minimally Invasive Surgeries

The da Vinci Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital. Our Robotics Program was by Urologists Dr. Jack Barkin, Dr. Charles Radzinski, Dr. Peter Kong, and Dr. Luke Fazio. Today, use of the da Vinci at Humber has expanded to include General Surgery and Gynaecology.

From left to right: Dr. Livia Lee, Dr. Olivier Heimrath, and Dr. Kevin Leung of Humber River Hospital’s Urology Program

“We are able to perform complex, minimally-invasive procedures using the da Vinci Surgical Robot,” says Dr. Kevin Leung. “The Robot allows us to operate without major incisions, so our patients experience faster recovery times and less pain. We are one of the only community-based hospitals in Canada to have one.”

“And as more Canadian hospitals begin using the Robot, Humber is set apart by our relatively easy access,” says Dr. Olivier Heimrath. “I have worked at university hospitals who have the robot, but it could take three months to book it for a procedure. At Humber we can book the da Vinci in a couple of weeks, so we can offer our patients a shorter turnaround time between diagnosis and treatment.”

Blue Light Cystoscopy: Cancer Detection

Blue Light technology helps Humber Urologists find difficult to detect cancer in the urinary tract and bladder. Thanks to donor support and Dr. Barkin’s leadership, Humber River Hospital was the first Hospital in Canada to use this technology and we continue to be a leader to this day.

“We inject the Cysview dye into a patient’s bladder prior to the procedure,” explains Dr. Livia Lee. “Under the Blue Light, hidden tumors glow hot pink, which makes it really easy to see against the blue. We have years of experience with Blue Light at Humber, so our Hospital has the physician and nursing expertise to support these procedures.”

Three Female Urologists: More Inclusive Healthcare

According to the Canadian Medical Association, only 11% of Urologists are women. At Humber River Hospital, our three female Urologists make up about a third of our team, which means we are in a better position to cater to all genders, religions, and comfort levels.

“Much of what we treat, including cancer, kidney stones, and bladder tumors are gender non-specific,” says Dr. Lee. “For patients from conservative backgrounds who prefer having a female physician, we have three. No one else in Canada has that capacity. As a group, we can provide comprehensive care to any patient.”

GreenLight Laser: Non-Surgical Prostate Treatment

Humber’s Urology Program was one of the first teams to use a tool called the GreenLight Laser to treat enlarged prostates in men. The laser can vaporize tissue blocking the prostate without the need for surgery.

“Thanks to the GreenLight Laser, our patients can go home same-day, and they don’t need to stop taking any medications like they would need to for traditional surgery,” says Dr. Leung. “The patient population that needs this procedure is typically more senior, and as a result more susceptible to prolonged hospital stays. It is tremendous that we are able to offer this as an outpatient procedure for them.”

COVID-19 Response: Balancing Safety with High Treatment Volumes

Humber’s Urology Program has been committed to maintaining treatment volumes throughout the pandemic, which has been made possible through routine COVID-19 tests for all Humber surgery patients, and through the amount of procedures that our Urology team offers same-day. Over 85% of our Urology procedures are now outpatient procedures, meaning that during the pandemic our Urology Program has needed fewer hospital beds, have had fewer cancellations from anxious patients, and have an increased capacity to make sure patients are still being looked after.

“All of our innovations at Humber, including technologies like GreenLight and the Robot, have meant that our patients can go home faster,” says Dr. Heimrath. “We have been able to continue to offer treatments while minimizing exposure. Even during these very unprecedented times we are performing a large volume of procedures for our patients, thanks to the technologies we use and the flexibility of our team. We are still providing lots of care.”

The da Vinci Surgical Robot is the centerpiece of the Murphy and Helen Hull Robotics Centre at Humber River Hospital.Ěý The Centre was established thanks to a transformational donation from the late Murphy and Helen Hull.

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