Community Builders Tribute: Honoring Dr. Jack Barkin and Supporting Robotic Surgery at Humber River Hospital with $550.000

The Italian Community in their Community Builders Tribute event honoured Dr. Jack Barkin in support of Humber River Health's Innovative Robotic Surgery Program, held Wednesday night. With 500 attendees from the Italian community, the event raised an impressive $550,000 in a single evening.
Humber River Hospital's robotic program is a standout in the Canadian health system, recognized for its progressive and validated surgical approach. The program, not only in Ontario but across Canada, has been instrumental in helping patients recover from surgery and improve their quality of life at a faster rate than previously thought possible.
Dr. Jack Barkin MD, FICS, DABU, MCertHM, CCHL, CCPE, FRCS, a pioneer of robotic surgery in Canada, emphasized the transformative impact of robotic surgery on patient care. He stated, "Robotic surgery has elevated patient care to a level previously unimaginable. Patients can undergo major cancer surgery and be discharged in less than 24 hours, experiencing less pain, bleeding, and discomfort, and returning to their families and work with a normal quality of life."
However, a significant challenge associated with these surgeries is the expensive cost of the materials used, which are not covered by any Canadian or provincial health program. This issue was highlighted by Dr. Barkin and event Co-Chair and CEO of IC Savings, Fausto Gaudio.
Dr. Barkin noted, "The biggest problem is that the robots themselves and the associated surgical expenses are not covered by the government of Ontario. It is a significant problem that we need to address because it should be the new standard of care for all patients."
Fausto Gaudio echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential influence of community support on political leaders to reconsider their stance on funding robotic surgery. He stated to us, "With this show of support, perhaps our political leaders may be influenced to change their political position on funding of Robotic Surgeries."
The Greek Press had the honor of attending the event and witnessing the remarkable display of community support for this hospital and for the Robotic Surgery program in particular. "The Italian Community has donated tens of thousands of dollars over the last several years", said Fausto Gaudio who is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Humber River Hospital Foundation.
Honorary Chairs, including former senator Hon. Consiglio Di Nino, former Hon. Frank Iacobucci, C.C., K.C. LL.D., LSM, and Hon. Senator Toni Varone, were in attendance at the event. The event committee was co-chaired by Sam J. Ciccolini and Fausto Gaudio. However, the true star of the night was Pepper, Humber River Hospital's humanoid robot, which brought smiles to everyone's faces.
Pepper serves as a "caregiver" and has joined the Child Life team at Humber River Hospital. This humanoid robot helps Child Life Specialists reduce patient anxiety, increase comfort, and educate young patients and their families. Pepper epitomizes the blend of compassion and advanced technology for which Humber River is renowned.

The event was held at the Montcassino Hotel and Event Centre.

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