Irene Ens

We would like to thank our distinguished donor Irene Ens. Irene donated over $45,000 towards the Renal Dialysis Unit in the Cypress Regional Hospital.

The Swift Current dialysis unit services the entire Southwest Region of our province. The unit can accommodate six (6) patients at a time and have 2 treatment times per day starting at 6:30 am and 12:30 pm. Patients dialyze 2-4 times per week for 3-5 hours per treatment. Some patients are required to be on the machine for up to 18 hours/week. While on the dialysis machine, patients are not able to move from their chairs without stopping their treatment.

Irene’s funds were used to purchase four top of the line Dialysis Chairs and a Transonic Monitor. The dialysis chairs that were in use were are non-electronic models that have two settings, either fully extended or seated in an upright position. The new chairs are the best in the business they are an electronic chair that includes an easy-to-use hand controller with five functions. A swivel and retractable armrest synchronized with the backrest for more comfort and a molded seam-free mattress. The most comfortable cushions designed to reduce pressure points, with great lumbar support, the seat is also shaped to help the patient to stay well in place in a proper position during the treatment. The Transonic Monitor is a piece of equipment that was previously only available in larger centers such as Regina or Saskatoon. Transonic measures delivered flow, recirculation, vascular access flow and cardiac output. Results are displayed on an easy-to-read monitor. This is critical for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, whose kidney function is replaced by dialysis.

On top of generously providing the funds for these upgrades Irene also took the time to sit down with our Executive Director Jim Dekowny to speak about her donation process, that video can be seen above. Renal care is something that Irene holds near and dear to her heart as she and her family members have received renal treatments in the Cypress Regional Hospital and have experienced the long tiring travel days to receive dialysis.

Thank you to Irene Ens for helping keep healthcare strong in Southwest Saskatchewan, your generosity will be felt by all those using the Renal Unit for generations to come.