GBS / CIDP Foundation of Canada

Have you ever had one of those moments where something goes wrong, and you think to yourself, 'Why can’t I get this right?' or 'What’s wrong with me?'

Now imagine how different that situation would feel if you looked at yourself with compassion. What would your inner voice say then?

We all have times when the challenges of our conditions bring us down and make us question ourselves. But it doesn’t have to be that way! 🌟

Join us for Candine Blackbeard’s talk on Manifesting Joy and discover how mindfulness techniques can help you quiet that negative inner voice and make space for JOY. 🧘‍♀️✨

🎉🎉🎉Bonus for Ontario residents: You can get a FREE one-on-one session with Candine. Tune in to the workshop to find out how!

National Virtual Conference
🗓November 9-10
🕐1-5 pm EST
🌎International Community Welcome
🗣Simultaneous translation in French and in English

➡Register here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home

✨Learn about how new treatments become available✨

Have you heard about the new treatments on the horizon and wondered when they will be accessible to Canadian patients? 🍁

Join us for Shazia Hassan's workshop on Market Access 101: Fundamentals of Drug Reimbursement in Canada, where you’ll gain insight into the process of how new treatments become available in Canada and what it means for patients like you.

FREE National Virtual Conference
📅November 9-10, 1:00 – 5:00 pm EST
🌎International Community Welcome
🗣Simultaneous Translation in French and English
❗Available on demand between November 14 - 29th for those who register before November 9.

➡️Sign up here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home/

➡Update: Help and Support for Caregivers Workshop ⬅

We regret to inform you that due to unforeseen circumstances, we have to cancel the Help and Support for Caregivers workshop. We did our best to secure a new speaker, but unfortunately, with the limited time available, we couldn’t make it happen.

However, we know how crucial this topic is for many of you. That’s why we’re already planning a workshop for caregivers in 2025. In the meantime, we’re pleased to announce the launch of a new Caregivers Support Group meeting taking place on Sunday, November 24th. More details about this event will be shared later this week.

Thank you for your understanding and support! 💙💙💙

✨What Makes Our Foundation Special? It’s You! ✨

What truly sets us apart is how everything we do is built on personal connections. Whether it’s a newly diagnosed patient receiving a visit from one of our liaisons, a fellow patient sharing a word of encouragement, or a friendly voice on the phone ready to help—it’s these relationships that make the difference. 💓💓💓

Our foundation thrives because of the amazing people who are part of it! To keep this personal touch, we need volunteers like you. Want to make a difference for someone living with GBS, CIDP, or MMN? Become a liaison!

Join us in spreading hope! 💙⭐💙
Contact us at [email protected] or sign up at: https://www.gbscidp.ca/volunteer-registration/
to learn how you can volunteer and be that person who makes someone's day a little brighter.

📢ATTENTION QUEBEC RESIDENTS📢
There are two upcoming bilingual volunteer information sessions:

*Montreal, Saturday, November 2nd from 3:30 to 4:30
*The Little Burgundy Sports Centre, 1825 Notre Dame W, Metro Georges Vanier

*Québec City, Sunday, November 3rd from 4pm to 5pm
*Monique Corriveau Library, 1100 de L’Eglise, Quebec City

RSVP with Jen at : [email protected]

🚨 Important Update: What’s New in Inflammatory Neuropathies Workshop 🚨

Due to a scheduling conflict, Dr. Vera Bril will no longer be able to lead this session. However, we’re thrilled to announce that the workshop will now be led by the renowned Dr. Hans Katzberg, Neurologist and Clinician Investigator at the recognized Centre for Excellence, Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases and Krembil Brain Institute at the University Health Network.

Dr. Katzberg is also a Professor of Neurology at University of Toronto and brings expertise in the assessment and treatment of immune-mediated neuropathies, including CIDP, GBS, and MMN. We’re fortunate to have him share his knowledge with us at our Free National Virtual Conference on November 9-10.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the top experts in the field!
➡Register now: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home/

✨ FREE National Virtual Conference – AVAILABLE ON DEMAND! ✨

Great news! 🎉 All of our incredible workshops will be available to watch on demand from November 14th to November 29th! This means you can enjoy them at a time that works best for you. 🗓️⏰

Can’t attend the conference live? No problem! You won’t have to miss out on any of the amazing sessions we've prepared for you. 📚💡

· What’s New in Inflammatory Neuropathy?
· Care and Support for Caregivers
· Manifesting Joy
· Market Access 101: Fundamentals of Drug Reimbursement in Canada
· Ask the Experts
· and many more!

Sign up here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home/

🌟 Techniques to help you navigate your health journey! 🌟

Are you looking for ways to improve your health and regain mobility? Join us for a workshop on Activity-Based Therapy!

In this session, you’ll hear uplifting stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by this technique, and you’ll learn practical tips on how to practice these techniques at home.

Join us and gain new skills to support your health journey!

National Virtual Conference
🗓November 9 – 10
🕐1pm – 5 pm EST
🌎International Community Welcome!
🗣Simultaneous translation in French and in English
➡Register here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home/

🎉 Our Final Walk and Roll of the Year Was a Great Success! 🎉

We had an amazing time at the Montreal Walk and Roll at the Carrefour Angrignon ! The event was kicked off by one of our youngest participants, proudly leading the way on Angus, the friendly mall motorcycle.🐂🏍

It was heartwarming to see so many people from the community come together to raise awareness and share meaningful moments. There's something truly amazing about connecting with others who understand what it's like to live with one of these conditions. Those moments of solidarity remind us why the work we do matters so much. 💙

A HUGE thank you to walk chair Louise Desrochers and to QC Liaison Sylvain Bousquet for your leadership, the Carrefour Angrignon, and to everyone who participated and made the day unforgettable! 🙏

To learn more about GBS, CIDP, MMN and variants visit: www.gbscidp.ca

🌟Exciting News! 🌟

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Vajsar, a pediatric neurologist specializing in GBS and CIDP, to our Ask the Experts panel! 🧠💬

Do you have a question about how GBS or CIDP impacts children for Dr. Vajsar? Now’s your chance to get an expert opinion!

✍🏽Submit your questions here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfyog-6_16zIlHJYeyMaJ5ticIkGv05YPlNhJirTfo_8DmaAQ/viewform?usp=pp_url

Plus, don't forget to register for this amazing conference! You won’t want to miss it!

FREE National Virtual Conference
November 9-10
1pm - 5 pm EST
International Community Welcome🌎💙
Simultaneous translation in French and English

➡Register here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home
ℹFor more information visit www.gbscidp.ca or email us at [email protected]

🌟💙Join us for this Saturday’s Walk and Roll in Montreal! 💙🌟

There’s still time to be part of this incredible event!🎉🎉

Come together with fellow members of our community to raise awareness about our conditions and connect with others who truly understand the journey of living with GBS, CIDP, MMN and variants. It’s a day filled with support, solidarity and shared experiences.

📍 Carrefour Angrignon, next to the Café Dépôt
🕚 Registration: 11 am and the walk begins at 11:30 am.
➡ Sign up here or register on site the day of the walk: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/gbscidp-foundation-of-canada/p2p/MarcheetrouleMontreal

ℹ For more information visit: www.gbscidp.ca

Let’s make a difference together! See you there!

At a recent Walk and Roll, one of our participants shared something that truly moved us:
"I’ve been hiding on my own for years. I’m so glad I came today. This changes everything." 💙

These powerful words remind us why the GBS/CIDP Foundation of Canada exists – to ensure that no patient goes through this journey alone.

We all understand the fear of experiencing those first symptoms and feeling unsure about where to find help. We’ve felt the frustration of waiting for a diagnosis and the treatment we need. And we know how hard it is to explain to family, friends, and colleagues how these conditions impact us every single day.

At the heart of our Foundation is a community that lifts each other up. You are not alone. 💙👬🌎👭💙

🎉 Look at all the fun we’ve been having! 🎉

This year’s Walk and Rolls have been an absolute blast! It’s been incredible to come together as a community—raising awareness, sharing stories, and creating unforgettable memories (with plenty of laughs along the way!). 😄

But the excitement isn’t over yet! We’ve got one more event this year, and YOU can still be part of the action. 🙌
Don’t miss out—sign up now or join us virtually! 💪

MONTREAL WALK AND ROLL
· Saturday, October 19th
· Carrefour Angrignon, next to the Café Dépôt (7077 blvd. Newman, Lasalle)
· Registration starts at 11 am
· Walk runs from 11:30 to 12:30
· Register here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/gbscidp-foundation-of-canada/p2p/MarcheetrouleMontreal

For more information, visit: www.gbscidp.ca

🌟 Care for the Caregivers! 🌟

Caregivers play a vital role in the lives of many of our patients. They assist with daily tasks, help manage medical treatments, and often serve as cheerleaders during tough times. However, this responsibility can also bring challenges for family, friends, and those in caregiving roles.

This year’s virtual conference features a workshop designed to support all those who help us! This session will provide valuable resources and encouragement to empower caregivers.💙❤

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity led by Jocelyn Gallager and her husband Thom, who has firsthand experience as her caregiver.

🗓November 9 – 10
🕜1pm – 5 pm EST
🌎International Community Welcome!
🔂Simultaneous translation in French and in English
➡Register here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home

For more information, you can email us at: [email protected]

🌟Sometimes, the most unexpected moments turn into the most magical!🌟

That was certainly true for Bob Cummins a Regina Liaison and GBS Warrior. During his battle with GBS, Bob remembers wondering if he would ever have the ability to walk the Highline Trail in Glacier Park again. But with a little luck, perfect timing, and a heart open to the adventure, something truly amazing happened!!! Hear his story:

This summer I took my sister to show her Glacier Park and had a great time. On the last day of our holiday we just happened to be driving to Logan pass (where the highline trail starts). We were very lucky to find a parking spot and I was feeling great. I told my sister , you know my walking stick is still in the back of the car and I’m feeling really good. I have to see if I can do a bit of the trail again! It was about supper time just before sunset and the conditions were perfect, I set out and was able to go a mile or so on the trail. It was one of the most beautiful sites I’ve ever seen! At one point I was so overcome with joy I started crying. Other hikers came by to assist me thinking I had injured myself. I had to explain that these were tears of overwhelming joy. After hearing my story they grabbed my phone and started taking pictures and videos and joined in my celebration. It was a wonderful experience.

Power on fellow turtles!🐢🐢🐢

Way to go Bob! You inspire us all! 💙❤💙

🔥 Our latest newsletter just in!🔥

Stay updated with all the latest news from the GBS/CIDP Foundation of Canada! This edition is packed with great articles on topics that matter to you:

· The similarities and differences between GBS and CIDP
· Securing the Canadian Supply of Immunoglobulin for Patients
· A firsthand story of recovery from Miller-Fisher Syndrome
· And much more!

🗓Plus, learn about all of the amazing upcoming events you won’t want to miss! Like our FREE National Virtual Conference (Nov. 9-10), the Montreal Walk and Roll (Oct. 19) and lots of support group meetings.

➡Download your copy of the newsletter here: https://www.gbscidp.ca/publications-english/
➡Visit here for all of our latest events: https://www.gbscidp.ca/new-events/

🌟 Exciting news for our community! 🌟

For years, treatment options for our conditions have been limited. However, thanks to recent research initiatives, the landscape is changing rapidly!

Would you like to stay informed about the latest understandings and treatments on the horizon for inflammatory neuropathies? Don’t miss Dr. Vera Bril’s “What’s New in Inflammatory Neuropathy” at our upcoming FREE virtual conference!

In this workshop, you will gain valuable insights into emerging treatments and innovative approaches to managing complex conditions.

FREE NATIONAL VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
🗓November 9-10

➡Register here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home/

This is just one of many amazing workshops! Sign up and join us for this incredible opportunity to learn and connect!

🔥 Our Foundation is on a roll in Saskatchewan! 🔥

Not only did we raise awareness at the 1st Annual Regina WALK AND ROLL and get our communication cards into the hands of dozens of critical care nurses at the CACCN CONFERENCE, we also shared unforgettable moments as a community during our IN-PERSON SUPPORT GROUP MEETING.

These opportunities to come together, share our stories, support one another, and learn from each other’s experiences are truly amazing. Check out our group photo from the event - minus a couple of people who had to rush off. 💙

We’re so grateful for all the ways we’ve been able to be on the ground with the GBS/CIDP/MMN and variant community in Saskatchewan this autumn!

💙❤Our Foundation team, Kim Brooks, Patient Advocate, and Sharon Anderson, Saskatchewan Liaison, had an incredible experience at the Canadian Critical Care Nurses Conference in Regina! ❤💙

It was such a pleasure to meet the dedicated nurses who care for our patients and to get our communication cards into their hands! These cards are designed to help patients communicate with their families and care team. 🩺🩹🩺

Dozens of communication cards were distributed at the conference ensuring that patients across the country will get their voice back thanks to this tool!

Well done Kim and Sharon!

Laminated versions of these cards are available for order directly from the Foundation. If you work in a critical care unit or have a family member who could benefit from this tool, contact us at: [email protected]

Canadian Association of Critical Care Nurses (National)

🎉 The wait is over! 🎉We’re excited to announce that FREE registration is now open for the GBS/CIDP Foundation of Canada's National Virtual Conference happening on November 9-10!

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn from top experts in the field of inflammatory neuropathies.

🌟 What you can expect:
• Discover the latest advancements and treatments
• Learn how new therapies become accessible
• Be inspired by the power of nutrition for wellness
• Explore stretches to boost your mobility
• Support for caregivers with practical self-care strategies
• Find joy through mindfulness techniques

With so many amazing workshops to choose from, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Register today and get ready to be inspired!

Register here: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/GBSCIDP2024/home/

For more information: www.gbscidp.ca or email us at [email protected]

🌟 A huge shoutout to our Edmonton community for hosting their first annual GBS/CIDP Walk and Roll! What an incredible event! 🎉

We were thrilled to spot turtles all around the park—yes, even in the trees! 🐢Thank you for your hard work in raising awareness and much-needed funds to support the foundation's mission of supporting patients and their families.

A special thanks to our amazing walk chair, Jenny Rybie, for her exceptional organization, and to board member and liaison Alex Grant and liaison Eric Sapiano for their invaluable support. You made this event a resounding success! 💙
Way to go team Edmonton! 🙌✨

We had an amazing time at this year’s York Region Walk and Roll... and Run! 🏃‍♀️ The event kicked off with a burst of energy as a group of young runners led the way! It was incredible to see our community come together, from all ages, to make this day so special.

What’s more, we even came across a turtle nesting area, confirming that this was the perfect spot for our Walk! 🐢

A heartfelt thank you to Nancy Galaski and Justin Galaski for co-chairing the event, and a special shout out to GBS warrior Justin for his inspiring words to open the walk. 💙We also want to thank Ethan and Liam for their fantastic work selling turtle cookies—yum! It's wonderful to have the support of our young community.

This event was a true success because of all of YOU—those who participated, fundraised, and brought friends and family to share in the day. Your efforts make it possible for the Foundation to continue supporting patients and families. We couldn’t do it without you! 🙏✨

Huge congratulations to our amazing Regina community for hosting your very first Walk and Roll! 🎉

The event was a fantastic success, filled with fun, laughter, and even a four-legged friend joining the fun! 🐾

Thank you to all who participated for your incredible efforts in raising awareness and funds to ensure that no future patient has to face this journey alone.

A special thank you to our Walk chair, Sharon Anderson, for your incredible efforts in making this event happen and to our liaisons Patricia Cason Kent and Jason Kent . Your dedication truly makes a difference! 💙

Thank you to our friends at InfoNeuro for sharing our Communication Cards on their social media. 💙❤️💙

Laminated versions of these cards are available for care units to order directly from the Foundation. Contact us at [email protected] to find out more.

Every time a set of cards reaches a care unit, a patient gets back their voice.

We are pleased to introduce this new resource available at the Neuro-Patient Resource Centre: Communication cards!

Created by GBS / CIDP Foundation of Canada, this essential tool allows hospitalized patients to better communicate with their loved ones and their care team.

The communication cards can be downloaded here: https://gbscidp.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/COMMUNICATION%20CARDS%20EN%20-%20FINAL.pdf?_gl=1*1f21uv3*_ga*NTExMzk0NDQ3LjE3MjY4NTE4ODc.*_ga_NZRSKGS735*MTcyNjg1MTg4Ny4xLjEuMTcyNjg1MjM3OS4wLjAuMA..

These cards are not only intended for patients hospitalized in intensive care or who suffer from Guillain-Barré syndrome or Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).