Story Posted: 2025-06-06
No One Walks Alone
Facing a chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis can be overwhelming — stacks of paperwork, difficult conversations, and the looming question of how life will change. For many, treatment means starting dialysis, especially in cases of kidney failure. This often requires visiting the hospital multiple times a week for several hours per session — a routine that can be especially difficult for patients who live far from the hospital.
At St. Paul’s Hospital, nephrology social worker Tricia Hutton plays a crucial role in helping patients navigate this new reality.
“When patients start dialysis, I assess their situation — their work, transportation, financial needs, and how they’re coping emotionally,” Tricia explains. “It can be quite intense.”
Transportation is one of the biggest hurdles. Many patients face barriers such as distance, cost, and lack of support. Tricia works to ease these burdens so patients can focus on their health. Whether helping them apply for financial assistance, coordinating travel, or offering emotional support, her goal is to ensure no one feels alone.
Tricia recently earned her Nephrology Social Worker Certification through the Canadian Association of Nephrology Social Workers. With 13 years of experience, she helped develop the certificate program to ensure social workers have the knowledge needed to best support kidney patients.
“It’s so important to give new social workers Canadian-specific tools so they’re equipped to help from day one,” she says.
Thanks to the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation’s pilot Porter Program, kidney health patients also now receive help navigating the hospital. Since launching in 2023, porters have been guiding patients—especially those with cognitive or mobility challenges—from the front door to their appointments, reducing reliance on family or expensive private transport.
“The relief families feel is incredible,” says Tricia. “It’s amazing to see how much this program helps.”
With community support, St. Paul’s ensures no patient walks this path alone. Every donation brings hope to those facing kidney disease.
With your help, St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation is committed to raising $10 million with the By Your Side Kidney Care Campaign to realize patient-centred and holistic health initiatives that will save lives and reduce the economic and social impacts of early onset kidney failure. Learn more and donate today at byyoursidesask.ca.