We can actually see the floor!

We can actually see the floor!

Our new BFFs Joan and Warren have connections. Lots and lots of medical connections. It’s called the Canadian Network for International Surgery. And last week, two surgeons came calling at Maurice’s warehouse to do a bit of NJT shopping. Two carloads later, after being ably assisted by Jan and her young friend Aicha, our newest NJT friends/partners left the warehouse very happy.

Dr. Hassan Shenassa and Dr. Robin Fairfull Smith gave us a wish list that we were not only able to fulfill but to add to. Hassan wrote:

“Thanks to Jacques, and Jan and her friend who helped us search the boxes and fill up our car, Robin and I managed to fill my SUV to the brim, (Jacques, you were right, will have to keep listening to you). (I was worried about getting into an accident since I had no vision to the back and sides. We will store the equipment at the storage area in my office building and do an inventory for you (CNIS) so you know what we have. I expect Robin will take a bunch of stuff in February and we can take more starting in March when we head out to the courses. Thank you NJT team.”

Jan clearly enjoyed herself:

“The path between the two sides of ‘our’ section of the warehouse is now clear and wide—haven't seen that ever, I dare say.  It was a real pleasure meeting these two fine and very nice people/doctors and I always feel more than compensated for any wee effort on my part when I meet the really wonderful folks taking their expertise and care along with NJT goodies on these missions.  It's so satisfying being a teeny part in their exciting work around the world.

Hassan will pass on the word about our offerings and you may soon find that we have trouble keeping much of anything on the shelves; it might go out as fast as it comes in!  There are lots of missions and some have 20 people who take 22kg. of med. stuff each.

We’re helping at home now too!

Not Just Tourists – Ottawa is going through some self-induced re-branding. We’re no longer helping “countries in need”, we’re helping “people in need”, including people in the Ottawa/Gatineau/Papineau regions. On Friday, The Ottawa Mission received four boxes of supplies for their hospice/palliative care group, including a good supply of leg drainage bags. Mary made the delivery early Friday morning and met a wonderful group of men and women. The staff and residents alike were cheerful and all were enjoying the unseasonably warm day.

While sorting through the stock at the warehouse for supplies to give to Dave Smith, Jacques came across a collection of ostomy supplies. He had just been referred to an older woman in Gatineau who is on social assistance and can’t afford to pay for all her supplies. The government only covers $600 per year or about half the annual cost. Enter NJT-Ottawa. The bright red and white Hollister boxes were a godsend for Mme. G. When Jacques delivered them, she couldn’t believe how quickly things had happened. What NJT gave to her will mean what she would have spent on supplies might go to make her Christmas a little cheerier.

We have also donated supplies to a long-term care facility in our village. With government-imposed limits on how often certain items can be changed, these supplies mean several people will be able to rest more comfortably.

So, NJT-Ottawa is on the radar with several organizations now and our reach has expanded both at home and abroad. And the best thing? Seeing people smile, whether they are receiving supplies or handing them out. Just ask Aicha.