UHN Foundation’s recent Rally for Rehab fundraiser, presented by BMO, was a resounding success, raising an impressive $180,000 (and counting) for Toronto Rehab at UHN. With a turnout of 300 participants at the Rumsey Centre in Leaside, the event emphasized the crucial role rehabilitation plays in patients’ lives. Guided by former patient Kevin Rempel as emcee, attendees gained valuable insights into the significance of rehabilitation and the groundbreaking work underway at Toronto Rehab’s KITE Research Institute. Kevin Rempel spent four months of his life recovering from an accident-related spinal cord injury at Toronto Rehab. Kevin went on to become a world champion (2013) and Paralympic bronze medalist (Sochi 2014) in sledge hockey, and is now a sought-after speaker and coach on the power of resilience.
The day’s offerings catered to all ages, offering a range of activities from massages and face painting to crafts and colorful balloons. However, one of the event’s standout moments was the ribbon-cutting ceremony introducing the Human in Motion robotic exoskeleton. This innovative wearable lower-limb mobility device, offering newfound hope to those otherwise unable to walk, made a powerful impression. Chloë Angus, a member of the team behind the exoskeleton, demonstrated its potential by walking despite having no use of her lower limbs due to a spinal cord tumor. Toronto Rehab will soon embark on clinical trials to support patients on their recovery journey with this groundbreaking technology.
The Rally for Rehab fundraiser, supported by BMO, not only showcases the community’s generosity but also underscores the vital role of rehabilitation and the transformative impact of innovation on patients’ lives. For those who wish to contribute or missed the event, donations can still be made at rallyforrehab.ca.
