Claire Thomas is the ultimate UHN Foundation ambassador: a staff member, patient, caregiver, volunteer and donor.
Having experienced the care journey from every angle, Claire has a deep appreciation for the impact of UHN. For nearly 26 years, she has worked as an intensive care nurse in the Medical-Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) at Toronto General Hospital, caring for some of Ontario’s most critically ill patients.
“UHN is a UHNITED team, and no one person could make the impossible possible on their own,” says Claire. “The exceptional care comes from everyone across the organization, including security, housekeeping, administrative staff, technicians, nurses and physicians.”
For Claire, no two days are ever the same.
“A typical day is never typical. It’s fast-paced, it’s teamwork, and it’s caring for patients at their most critical moments. We work together to help them get better.”
Caring for UHN patients at their most critical moments
Throughout her career, Claire has cared for patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a life-sustaining therapy that supports patients whose lungs and/or heart can no longer function on their own. Her specialized expertise as an ICU nurse has contributed to all three of UHN’s pillars: patient care, research and education.
“I love the people I work with. I love the patients, the families, the intensity and the constant challenge. Every day is different. You come in not knowing what to expect, and that’s what makes the work so rewarding.”
Experiencing care first-hand
Claire’s connection to UHN extends beyond her role as a caregiver. During her time at the organization, she has also been a patient.
“Being a patient really changed my perspective on how research impacts every aspect of care,”
“I never realized how much UHN’s innovations make a difference until I experienced them firsthand as a patient.” she says, referring to her treatment at the Schroeder Arthritis Institute and the Sprott Department of Surgery at UHN.
Giving back as a UHN Foundation monthly donor
While recovering from a debilitating spinal condition, Claire noticed a UHN Foundation kiosk during an appointment at Toronto Western Hospital. She immediately recognized an opportunity to give back.
As both a patient and a member of TeamUHN, becoming a monthly donor allowed Claire to stay connected to the organization during her medical leave.
“It warms my heart to donate. Since I’m currently on medical leave and can’t provide care directly at the bedside, I can at least support patient care in another way.”
She also values the convenience and impact of monthly giving.
“It’s easy, it’s automatic, and I don’t have to think about it. The dollars add up and make a real difference.”
As a valued member of TeamUHN, Claire received a time-limited UHN T-shirt, which she proudly wears wherever she goes, including a long-awaited trip to Japan with her parents who have had the benefit of Claire’s caregiving. Her father is also a proud UHN patient and fan of the UHN t-shirt.
“I wear it with the utmost pride,” Claire says. “Anytime I can support UHN, including wearing this T-shirt loud and proud, I’m there.”
Take your impact further and become a monthly donor today.
