YOUR GIFTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Warmth & Comfort for Renal Patients
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
A simple moment of comfort can mean everything during long hours in treatment.
The Algoma Regional Renal Program is more than just another program at SAH – it’s a close-knit community.
Many patients in the program come three or more times a week, often sitting for four hours or more during each visit. They build strong connections with staff and each other along the way. They share stories, milestones, and support one another through their journey.
Renal dialysis is life-saving treatment that helps clean a patient’s blood when their kidneys are no longer able to. But it isn’t easy. Patients can often feel tired, uncomfortable, and cold. That’s where something as simple as a warm blanket can make all the difference.
Thanks to donor support, a brand-new blanket warmer is here to keep renal patients comfortable during treatment!
A blanket warmer is exactly what it sounds like. It gently heats blankets so they are warm for patients during treatment. It plays an important role in helping patients feel at ease.
Each day, as patients settle in for their treatment, staff offer them a warm blanket. Because the dialysis process circulates blood outside the body, many patients feel cold during treatment, so warm blankets are always in demand.
Because of donors, this comfort is always within reach for renal patients.
“For many of our patients, it’s their favourite part,” shared Krystal Murray, Renal Aide at SAH.
“They come in not feeling well, and they’re often here for hours. A warm blanket is comforting and makes a huge difference.”
That comfort was especially missed when the unit’s old blanket warmer stopped working. Emergency funds helped replace this equipment quickly, making sure patients could continue to stay warm during treatment. Emergency funds are used when critical equipment breaks down unexpectedly.
“When we didn’t have a blanket warmer, patients really missed it,” Krystal shared. “Dialysis can be uncomfortable, especially for new patients. Putting a warm blanket on them makes it so welcoming.”
The new blanket warmer brings improvements. The previous warmer had just one section. The new one has two sections that can be set at different temperatures. With more storage space, and adjustable temperature settings, staff can better manage blankets and keep them at just the right temperature for patients.
But more than anything, it’s about how patients feel. Donor support is making each visit a little warmer, a little easier, and a little more comfortable for patients who need it most.
"Thank you tremendously! A warm blanket may seem like a small item, but to a patient it makes a huge difference. It provides comfort and they’re so thankful for it." - Krystal Murray, Renal Aide at SAH
A new blanket warmer is also planned for the Algoma District Cancer Program (ADCP) to keep patients comfortable during treatment. |
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