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On June 21, NSWOCC joins people across Canada in recognizing National Indigenous Peoples Day, a time to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, languages, knowledge systems, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. As we mark this important day, NSWOCC reaffirms its commitment to advancing Truth and Reconciliation and supporting equitable access to culturally safe wound, ostomy, and continence care for Indigenous Peoples across Canada. Advancing Indigenous Health Equity through the Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Health Core Program Through the Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program, NSWOCC continues to work alongside Indigenous leaders, healthcare professionals, and community members to promote culturally responsive care and improve health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. A key focus of the program is the integration of cultural safety into the NSWOCC National Standards of Practice. This important initiative seeks to ensure the standards reflect and respect Indigenous knowledge, traditions, experiences, and ways of knowing, while promoting more equitable and culturally responsive care. By embedding cultural safety principles into the standards, the program aims to help address systemic barriers and foster a more inclusive approach to wound, ostomy, and continence health across Canada. Launching the New Evidence-Based Skin Tear Assessment and Classification Toolkit for Indigenous Skin Tones This year, we are also pleased to highlight the launch of the new Evidence-Based Skin Tear Assessment and Classification Toolkit for Indigenous Skin Tones, developed in partnership with members of the NSWOCC Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program. Officially launched during ISTAP World Without Skin Tears Day 2026 on April 9, 2026 through the presentation Adapting the Skin Tear Classification Tool to Support Indigenous Cultural Safety by Michelle Buffalo, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), Bev Smith, BScN, RN, NSWOC, and Dr. Kevin Woo, PhD, RN, FAPWCA, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC, the toolkit was created to support culturally safe, equitable, and person-centred skin tear assessment and management for Indigenous Peoples across Canada. The toolkit includes three complementary resources: ISTAP™ Indigenous Skin Tear Decision Algorithm ISTAP™ Skin Tear Risk Assessment Pathway for Indigenous People ISTAP™ Assessment and Treatment Pathway for Indigenous People with Skin Tears The presentation recording is available on demand through the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP), linked below. As we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize that reconciliation is an ongoing journey that requires listening, learning, relationship-building, and meaningful action. NSWOCC remains committed to supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, advancing culturally safe care, and fostering equitable health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples across Canada.

Ottawa, Ontario – June 19, 2026 – Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) announces that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Axelle Pellerin will be taking a scheduled leave of absence as part of her maternity leave beginning Monday, June 22, 2026. On behalf of the NSWOCC Board of Directors and staff team, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Axelle and her family. We are excited for her as she takes this special time to welcome and care for her newest family member, and we wish her a wonderful and well-deserved maternity leave. To ensure continuity of leadership and operations during this period, Troy Curtis, Chief Operating Officer of NSWOCC, has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer for the duration of Axelle's leave. In this role, Troy will continue working closely with the Board of Directors, staff team, volunteers, industry partners, and stakeholders to advance the organization's strategic priorities and support its ongoing activities. NSWOCC remains committed to delivering its full range of programs and services throughout this transition. Educational offerings, member services, events, advocacy initiatives, and organizational operations will continue without interruption. Questions related to the Office of the CEO may be directed to office@nswoc.ca, Attention: Troy Curtis, Interim CEO. Questions related to the WOC Institute may continue to be directed to Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, Academic Chair, at chair@wocinstitute.ca. Thank you for your continued support of NSWOCC and for joining us in wishing Axelle and her family all the very best during this exciting time.

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®), in collaboration with the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP™), is pleased to announce the launch of a new Evidence-Based Skin Tear Assessment and Classification Toolkit for Indigenous Skin Tones, developed to support culturally safe, equitable, and person-centred skin tear assessment and management for Indigenous Peoples across Canada. The toolkit consists of three complementary resources: ISTAP™ Indigenous Skin Tear Decision Algorithm ISTAP™ Skin Tear Risk Assessment Pathway for Indigenous People ISTAP™ Assessment and Treatment Pathway for Indigenous People with Skin Tears These resources are now freely available through the ISTAP website at: https://www.skintears.org/resources The new toolkit was officially launched during ISTAP World Without Skin Tears Day 2026 on April 9, 2026, through the presentation "Adapting the Skin Tear Classification Tool to Support Indigenous Cultural Safety." The presentation featured: Michelle Buffalo, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) (Canada) Bev Smith, BScN, RN, NSWOC (Canada) Dr. Kevin Woo, PhD, RN, FAPWCA, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC (Canada) The presentation recording is available on demand at: https://www.skintears.org/wwstd2026#on-demand The project was led by NSWOCC and ISTAP with support from Indigenous Services Canada and brought together an expert panel of Indigenous nurses and wound, ostomy, and continence specialists working closely with Indigenous communities. The panel included: Michelle Buffalo, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) – Alberta Bev Smith, BScN, RN, NSWOC – Alberta Amanda Sowiak, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) – Alberta Tina Beckerton, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) – British Columbia Denise Lalonde-Niccoli, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) – British Columbia Jer Caul, MClinSc-WH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) – Ontario Jocelyne Bergen, RN, BScN – Yukon The project focused on culturally adapting existing ISTAP resources to better reflect the language, culture, lived experiences, and health care realities of Indigenous Peoples. Cultural adaptation involves validating and modifying knowledge tools within the cultural context in which they will be used. Through expert review, consultation, and validation, the panel identified opportunities to strengthen cultural safety, acknowledge traditional knowledge and medicines, address social determinants of health, and promote health equity within skin tear prevention and management pathways. The resulting toolkit incorporates considerations such as traditional healing practices, cultural safety, trust in the health care system, environmental health, transportation barriers, access to resources, and other social determinants of health that may influence skin health and wound healing. NSWOCC and ISTAP extend their sincere gratitude to the expert panel members, validation participants, Indigenous Services Canada, and all those who contributed their expertise and lived experiences to this important initiative. Together, we continue to advance culturally safe wound care practices and work toward a world without skin tears.

The International Skin Tear Advisory Panel and Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada are proud to co-announce that 2026 marks 10 years of partnership and collaboration. In 2016, ISTAP officially became an interest group of NSWOCC, beginning a decade-long partnership dedicated to advancing awareness, prevention, assessment, and treatment of skin tears around the world. Over the past 10 years, this collaboration has continued to grow into a global platform, network, advocacy movement, and community of healthcare professionals committed to working toward ISTAP’s vision of a world without skin tears. The History of ISTAP While ISTAP became an Official Interest Group of NSWOCC in 2016, ISTAP itself was founded in 2011 by Co-Chairs Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc (Canada) and Sharon Baranoski (USA), alongside panel members: Dr. Karen Campbell (Canada) Dr. Kerlyn Carville (Australia) Dawn Christensen (Canada) Karen Edwards (USA) Mary Gloeckner (USA) Samantha Holloway (United Kingdom) Dr. Diane Langemo (USA) Alicia Madore (USA) Mary Ann Sammon (USA) Ann Williams (USA) Dr. Mary Regan (USA) Together, these international leaders established the foundation for what has become a truly global organization dedicated to skin tear awareness, prevention, assessment, and management. Today, ISTAP raises global awareness of skin tear prediction, assessment, prevention, and management through a multidisciplinary panel of healthcare professionals representing Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and North America. Through education, research, and advocacy, ISTAP continues to work toward improving outcomes for individuals at risk of or experiencing skin tears — all aimed at achieving the vision of “a world without skin tears.” ISTAP has now grown to more than 6,000 members worldwide, with free online membership available to healthcare professionals and supporters around the globe. As we celebrate this important milestone, we recognize and thank the founders, volunteers, members, partners, and supporters who have helped shape ISTAP and strengthen the partnership between ISTAP and NSWOCC over the last decade. We invite you to join us in celebrating these 10 years of partnership as we look ahead to another decade of growth, global collaboration, community building, and continued advocacy for the awareness, prevention, and treatment of skin tears. Read the full history of ISTAP here: https://www.skintears.org/history Learn more about the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel at www.skintears.org. Become an ISTAP member for free at: https://www.skintears.org/join-istap Learn more about Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada at www.nswoc.ca.

Celebrating leadership, excellence, and lasting contributions to the tri-specialty of wound, ostomy and continence care May 2026 – Vancouver, British Columbia During the WCET®-NSWOCC® Joint Congress Gala and Banquet held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) proudly inducted the 2026 class of NSWOCC Fellows. The NSWOCC Fellowship Program represents the highest honour bestowed by NSWOCC and recognizes individuals who have made exceptional and sustained contributions to the advancement of wound, ostomy and continence nursing through leadership, clinical excellence, education, mentorship, research, advocacy, and policy development. Launched in May 2024, the Fellowship Program reflects NSWOCC’s commitment to recognizing leaders whose work has shaped and strengthened the profession across Canada and internationally. Fellows serve as role models, mentors, innovators, and advocates whose impact continues to influence the future of specialized nursing care and improve outcomes for patients and families. NSWOCC is honoured to recognize the following individuals as the 2026 NSWOCC Fellows: Britney Butt, MClSc-WH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), CWOCN Britney Butt currently serves as the Wound & Ostomy Care Coordinator at Keck Medicine of USC and has built a distinguished career grounded in advanced clinical practice, education, policy development, and research-informed leadership. Previously serving as the Clinical Nurse Specialist for Wound, Ostomy and Continence at North York General Hospital from 2015–2024, Britney led numerous initiatives focused on clinical consultation, interdisciplinary education, quality improvement, and program development. Throughout her career, she has implemented multiple national wound, ostomy and continence programs and has demonstrated a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, pressure injury prevention, and quality assurance. Britney holds a Master of Clinical Science in Wound Healing from Western University and is dual-certified in both Canada and the United States. Her leadership and dedication continue to influence practice standards and specialized nursing care internationally. Shannon Handfield, RN, BSN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Shannon Handfield has dedicated more than two decades to advancing wound, ostomy and continence nursing practice in British Columbia and across Canada. Beginning her specialized practice at Vancouver Hospital in 2000 with a focus on spinal cord injury care, Shannon went on to lead major provincial and regional initiatives, including serving as Vancouver Coastal Health’s Clinical Lead for the Pixalere Electronic Wound Management System and later as the Professional Practice Initiatives Lead for Wound, Ostomy and Continence. Shannon’s leadership helped support regional and provincial committees dedicated to advancing wound and ostomy practice. In 2018, she transitioned into the role of Lead for the British Columbia Provincial Professional Practice Stream – Wound Ostomy Continence, helping expand the initiative to seven committees province-wide. Although retired as of October 2025, Shannon continues to support the professional practice stream and remains a respected leader and mentor within the specialty. Anna Tumchewics, BScN, RN, NSWOC Anna Tumchewics has devoted her career to advancing nursing excellence, particularly within rural, remote, and northern communities across Canada. A graduate of the University of Toronto’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and the Dalhousie University Outpost Nursing Program, Anna completed the Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Nursing Education Program in 2006. Her work across acute care, community care, primary care, and remote nursing settings throughout the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, northern British Columbia, and Ontario has had a profound impact on patient care and nursing practice. Anna has volunteered extensively with nursing associations for more than 40 years and has contributed significantly to nursing legislation and professional advancement. She currently serves as an academic advisor with the SWAN Program and continues to mentor and support future generations of nurses. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, Anna was awarded the Canadian Nurses Association Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2014 and was recognized as an Honourary Nurse Practitioner by Aurora College in 2004. Karen E. Campbell, RN, MScN, PhD, WOCC(C) Karen Campbell is widely recognized as one of Canada’s most influential leaders in wound care education, research, and professional practice. Currently serving as Adjunct Faculty for the Master’s of Advanced Health Care Practice in Wound Healing at Western University, Karen has contributed extensively to the growth and advancement of specialized wound, ostomy and continence nursing nationally and internationally. Karen was a founding board member and served in numerous leadership roles with NSWOCC, the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel, and the Canadian Association of Wound Care. She also helped develop and teach within the RNAO Wound Care Institute and Wisdom in Wound Care programs. A prolific contributor to wound care scholarship, Karen has authored one book, six book chapters, and more than 50 peer-reviewed publications. Her expertise and leadership in pressure injury prevention and skin health continue to shape best practice guidelines and influence care internationally. Debra Johnston, MN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Debra Johnston has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing evidence-informed wound and ostomy care throughout her distinguished career. As a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wound and Ostomy at University Health Network – Toronto General Hospital for more than 19 years, Debra has contributed extensively to clinical practice, quality improvement, policy development, staff education, and mentorship. Although unable to attend the Gala and Banquet in person, Debra’s Fellowship was accepted on her behalf by NSWOCC President-Elect Joshua Moralejo. Her leadership has been instrumental in the development of national standards, position statements, and best practice recommendations through NSWOCC and other organizations including Wounds Canada and the RNAO. Debra currently serves on the task force reviewing the revised international pressure injury guideline for the EPUAP, NPIAP and PPPIA. Debra has also made an extraordinary impact through mentorship and education, serving as a preceptor and mentor to NSWOCC students for more than 18 years. In 2021, she was recognized with the NSWOCC President’s Award. Honourary NSWOCC Fellow – Cathy Harley In recognition of her more than two decades of leadership and service to NSWOCC and the broader nursing community, recently retired NSWOCC CEO Cathy Harley was named an Honourary NSWOCC Fellow during the Gala and Banquet ceremonies. Cathy’s leadership helped guide the tremendous growth and national impact of NSWOCC, strengthening education, advocacy, certification, professional development, and international collaboration within the wound, ostomy and continence specialty. Her legacy continues to shape the organization and profession for future generations. About the NSWOCC Fellowship Program The NSWOCC Fellowship Program recognizes select individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the tri-specialty of wound, ostomy and continence care. Fellowship is reserved for Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) whose careers reflect sustained excellence and meaningful impact in clinical practice, education, research, leadership, policy development, mentorship, and advocacy. As the Fellowship Program continues to grow, Fellows will play an important role in supporting the next generation of specialized nurses while continuing to advance patient-centred, evidence-informed care across Canada and internationally. Learn more about the Fellowship Program: NSWOCC Fellowship Program Learn about the inaugural Fellows inducted in 2025:2025 NSWOCC Fellows

We are pleased to share our Executive Board and Board Directors for the upcoming term! Congratulations to those who have been elected. Meet our Executive Board NEW President: Bev Smith, RN, BScN, NSWOC Bev Smith was born and raised in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia where her Indigenous Ancestors from the Miꞌkmaq First Nations of Potlotek, Cape Breton settled in the early 1900’s. Bev completed her BScN at the University of Alberta. After working in acute care for several years, an opportunity to work alongside the hospital’s only NSWOC presented itself and Bev was excited to take on the new challenge. Bev enrolled in the then CAET wound, ostomy and continence education program and graduated as a NSWOC in 2008. NEW President-Elect: Joshua Moralejo, MScCH: WPC, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), IIWCC Joshua is a Registered Nurse who has developed a passion for wound and ostomy care. He completed the CAWC Levels 1-3 Series (2011), the IIWCC (2014), Advanced Ostomy Care and Management (2016) and the Master of Science in Community Health – Wound Prevention and Care (2020) at the University of Toronto, and the NSWOC Program at the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute (2023). In 2023, he received the Canadian Nurses Association Certification in Wound, Ostomy & Continence. Secretary: Rebecca Dyck, MClSc-WH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Rebecca Dyck has been nursing for fifteen years, and is a strong advocate for justice and equity in health care. She has spent a number of years learning how systemic racism and intersectionality affect the health of individuals and communities. After earning a Master of Clinical Science in Wound Healing at Western University ten years ago, Rebecca has been working with patients virtually and at the bedside to solve the puzzle that each wound presents. Rebecca also tutors students in the research course of the master’s program. More recently, Rebecca became a Nurse Specialized in Wound Ostomy and Continence and earned her national certification. Treasurer: Misty Stephens RN, MClSc(WH), BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Misty Stephens started her career as an ICU trauma nurse and then transitioned into being an NSWOC in 2013. Since then she has been working in acute care as the certified NSWOC. She is the chair of BC provincial skin and wound committee and value analysis teams. Misty is the regional NSWOC BC / Yukon director. IMMEDIATE Past President: PhD, MScCH, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Corey Heerschap is the Clinical Nurse Specialist for Wound and Ostomy at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, Ontario. Corey has been working in the wound care field since he graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Laurentian University in 2012. Chief Executive Officer: Axelle Pellerin, MBA, BA Axelle is an accomplished healthcare executive with more than 20 years of experience in complex health environments. Axelle has held senior leadership roles across leading healthcare organizations, including the University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine, Unity Health Toronto (St. Joseph’s Health Centre Toronto), and the Ottawa Hospital. She Chaired the Board of the Ottawa Birth and Wellness Centre, one of only two midwifery led out of hospital independent Health Facilities. Axelle has recently completed her executive MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology. Meet our Board Directors BC & Yukon: Tina Beckerton Tina Beckerton initially became an LPN in 1994 in Ontario. After moving to British Columbia, her colleagues encouraged and inspired her to return to university to earn her degree in nursing. Perusing her dream, Tina went on and graduated from University of Northern British Columbia with a bachelor of science in nursing in 2011. In 2017 Tina embarked on her second passion which is wound care and graduated from the CAET Program in 2017. In 2020 Tina became certified as an NSWOC with the Canadian Nurses Association. Tina has worked in numerous areas of nursing over the years in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia while never losing her love for the nursing profession and wound and ostomy care. Tina is currently working as a Clinical Practice Consultant – WOC at Cariboo Memorial Hospital in Williams Lake, BC and serves vast region that extends 350km south, and 400km west of Williams Lake. Prairies, NWT and Nunavut: Angela Koziak RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Angela Koziak graduated from the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Alberta in 2004. During her studies, she worked in long-term care before going on to gain clinical experience in medicine and the ICU. After the birth of her son, she transitioned into a Case Manager role in Supportive Living. It was during this time that she met Bev Smith, whose mentorship sparked Angela’s interest in wound care and encouraged her to join the direct nursing team and pursue the NSWOC program. NEW Ontario: Catherine Summers, RN, BN, MN, NSWOCC, WOCC(C) Cathy Summers is a Registered Nurse (RN) and dedicated nursing leader with expertise in wound, ostomy, and continence care based in Ontario, Canada. Holding a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) and Master of Nursing (MN), she is a certified nurse (WOCC(C)) and member of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), currently working with VON Canada. NEW Quebec: Jessica Jones, RN, BN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Jessica has dedicated the past decade of her professional career to advancing excellence in wound and ostomy care. Since graduating from the NSWOC program in 2022, she has remained committed to strengthening the standards, visibility, and impact of the specialty across Québec. Over the past two years, Jessica has served on the executive committee of her provincial NSWOC organization, currently holding the role of Treasurer. Through this work, she has developed strong professional and collegial relationships with NSWOCs across Québec. NEW Atlantic: Michele Langille, RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Michele Langille is a Registered Nurse, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN), Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC), and holds a WOCC(C) designation. She is an expert in wound, ostomy, and continence care, known for presenting on topics like Oxygen Therapy and contributing to clinical best practices. SWAN: Sharon Hunter, RPN, IIWCC, SWAN Sharon Hunter is am experienced Nursing Advocate and RPN Nurse Manager, Educator and Speaker. She holds a General Arts and Science Diploma and a Practical Nursing Diploma from St. Lawrence College. In 2019, Sharon completed an International Interprofessional Wound Care Course at the University of Toronto and in 2021 she graduated from the CNA-accredited Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN™) program.

From May 11–17, 2026, NSWOCC joins the CNA to celebrate National Nursing Week—a time to recognize the extraordinary contributions of nurses and the essential role they play in transforming health care across the country. This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses to Transform Health,” speaks directly to the impact nurses have every day: advancing patient outcomes, leading innovation, and shaping the future of care through expertise, compassion, and leadership. Celebrating NSWOCs and SWANs Across Canada Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is proud to represent over 600 specialized nurses and a growing community of more than 1,600 Members and Associates dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with wound, ostomy, and continence challenges. This year’s theme strongly aligns with NSWOCC’s direction: Mission: Leading excellence is our passion. Enhancing lives is our inspiration. Innovation is our commitment. Vision: Every person deserves specialized wound, ostomy and continence care. Values: Nursing specialty excellence, leadership, and collaborative partnerships Featured National Nursing Week Webinar As part of this year’s celebrations, we are proud to highlight an upcoming webinar led by Dr. Kim LeBlanc (WOC Institute Academic Chair and CNA President) and Dr. Corey Heerschap, immediate past president of NSWOCC: The Power and Impact of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence Care 📅 Thursday, May 14, 2026 🕛 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET This session will showcase the vital role of nurses specialized in wound, ostomy and continence care in improving patient outcomes and transforming health-care systems. Through advanced clinical expertise, leadership, education, and research, these nurses: Address complex care needs Empower patients and families Support interprofessional teams Drive evidence-informed practice Participants will also explore how specialized nursing: Prevents complications Accelerates healing Enhances quality of life Reduces health-care costs Join the Celebration We encourage all NSWOCC Members and the broader nursing community to take part in National Nursing Week: Access and share resources from the Canadian Nurses Association: https://www.cna-aiic.ca/en/news-events/national-nursing-week/resources Celebrate your colleagues and teams Share your stories and impact using #NationalNursingWeek Reflect on the vital role nurses play in transforming health for all Canadians You can also view a special message from Canada’s Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Leigh Chapman: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/health-canada_national- To all nurses—and especially to NSWOCs, SWANs, and specialized nurses across Canada—thank you for your leadership, your expertise, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. Your work continues to shape healthier futures for individuals, families, and communities. Happy National Nursing Week 2026!

Restoring Sheep's Wool to Clinical Practice: An Evidence-Based Opportunity to Reduce Preventable Wounds. Pressure injuries, chronic wounds, and skin breakdown continue to cause avoidable suffering across acute care, long‑term care, and home‑care settings. Despite decades of innovation, many frontline clinicians still struggle with the same challenges: moisture, friction, shear, and compromised skin integrity. Yet emerging peer‑reviewed research, alongside historical clinical use, is pointing back to a natural, renewable material with remarkable properties: medical‑grade sheep's wool. What the Evidence Shows Recent peer‑reviewed studies have demonstrated that wool can: • Reduce friction and shear forces • Support micro‑circulation • Regulate moisture and temperature • Improve patient comfort and compliance • Reduce the incidence of pressure injuries in at‑risk populations These findings echo the long history of wool's use in hospitals, military medicine, and wound‑care wards before synthetic materials replaced natural fibres. Why Wool Matters Now Today's wound‑care landscape is calling for solutions that are: • Clinically effective • Cost‑efficient= • Sustainable • Comfortable for patients • Easy for staff to implement Wool meets all five criteria and yet it remains under‑examined in modern clinical research. A Call for Collaboration Soul Comfort Medical is seeking partnerships with: • NSWOCs and SWANs • Wound‑care researchers • Universities and clinical research teams • Long‑term care and acute‑care facilities Our goal is to co‑design and support new clinical trials that explore wool's role in: • Pressure injury prevention • Skin protection for immobile or high‑risk patients • Moisture and microclimate management • Comfort‑focused wound‑care interventions We believe wool has the potential to significantly reduce preventable wounds, but advancing this work requires collaboration with the clinicians and researchers who understand the realities of patient care. Let's Move This Forward Together If you are interested in participating in a study, partnering on research design, or exploring wool's clinical applications, we would be honoured to connect. Have you seen our new testimonial video about diabetic heel ulcers healing in record time? (Click the button below to watch our videos located at the bottom of the page.)

Originating from Iceland, Kerecis produces the world’s only commercially available fish-skin graft for wound management. With no known risk of viral transmission from cold-water cod to humans, our grafts are minimally processed without harsh chemicals, allowing our grafts to maintain: Intact Molecular Organization - Properties similar to human skin preserved Three-Dimensional Structure - Preserved framework to support tissue regeneration Natural Mechanical Properties – Naturally strong and flexible Preserved Molecular Content – Retained Extracellular Matrix Components

Ottawa, ON — May 1, 2026 Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) is pleased to announce the appointment of Axelle Pellerin, MBA, BA, as the association’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1, 2026. Axelle Pellerin is an accomplished healthcare executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience in complex healthcare environments. Axelle began her career in politics working on Parliament Hill, she held multiple leadership roles in cabinet ministers’ offices. She has always had a passion for healthcare and ensuring Canadians have access to the best healthcare when they need it the most. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership positions with several respected healthcare organizations, including the University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine, Unity Health Toronto (St. Joseph’s Health Centre Toronto), and The Ottawa Hospital. Most recently she was the Executive Director of Inpatient Addiction Treatment Facility. She also previously served as Chair of the Board for the Ottawa Birth and Wellness Centre, one of only two midwifery-led out-of-hospital independent health facilities in Ontario. Most recently, Axelle completed her Executive MBA through the Quantic School of Business and Technology. Axelle presents her vision at the NSWOCC 2026 AMM. NSWOCC Members were formally introduced to Axelle during the NSWOCC Annual Members Meeting held as part of the WCET®-NSWOCC® Joint Congress on April 25, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia. During the presentation, Axelle shared her initial vision and priorities for the association, outlining her commitment to supporting members and advancing the future of wound, ostomy and continence care across Canada. NSWOCC is excited to welcome Axelle into this leadership role and looks forward to the experience, innovation, and strategic direction she will bring to the association in the years ahead. Cathy joins NSWOCC Members at the AMM in applauding Axelle, newly announced as the incoming NSWOCC CEO. Axelle succeeds Cathy Harley, who served NSWOCC as Executive Director and later Chief Executive Officer for 22 years. Since joining the organization in 2004, Cathy played an instrumental role in shaping and modernizing the association while advancing wound, ostomy and continence nursing nationally and internationally. Under Cathy’s leadership, NSWOCC strengthened its governance structure, achieved financial sustainability to support both short- and long-term strategic objectives, and guided the association through its historic transition from the Canadian Association of Enterostomal Therapists (CAET) to Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) in 2018. Cathy Harley speaks at the WCET-NSWOCC Joint Congress Gala on 25 April 2026. Cathy also championed numerous initiatives that significantly impacted the nursing and healthcare communities, including supporting advanced nursing education in wound, ostomy and continence care; advocating for improved recognition of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs); and contributing to increased ostomy reimbursement support in Ontario. One of Cathy’s most valued accomplishments was working alongside Indigenous nurses to support the development of the Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program in alignment with Truth and Reconciliation efforts. She also contributed to securing a contract with the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care to support the training of Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWAN™) in long-term care settings. Throughout her tenure, Cathy supported the delivery of 21 national conferences and helped oversee the growth and development of NSWOCC’s 11 Core Programs, as well as the association’s two official interest groups: the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP™) and the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP). When announcing her retirement in July 2025, Cathy expressed her sincere gratitude to the many Board Directors, Core Program Leaders, volunteers, members, contracted staff, industry partners, aligned associations, and patients she had the privilege of working alongside throughout her career. NSWOCC extends its heartfelt appreciation to Cathy Harley for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions to the association and the wound, ostomy and continence nursing community. Her impact and legacy will continue to shape the future of NSWOCC for years to come. The association wishes Cathy a well-deserved, restful, and fulfilling retirement. The NSWOCC Members give Cathy a final standing ovation at the NSWOCC 2026 AMM. In recognition of her more than two decades of leadership and service, Cathy was named an Honourary NSWOCC Fellow during the WCET®-NSWOCC® Joint Congress Banquet held on April 25, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia. CEO Transition Timeline July 2025 – Cathy Harley announces her retirement July 2025 – NSWOCC develops a CEO search and transition plan July 2025 – Candidate search committee established 2025–2026 – NSWOCC works with executive recruitment firm Odgers Early 2026 – Top three candidates identified End of February 2026 – Offer extended to the successful candidate March 2026 – Axelle Pellerin begins transition and onboarding process with Cathy Harley May 1, 2026 – Axelle Pellerin officially assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer and Cathy Harley officially retires To read Cathy Harley’s original retirement announcement, visit: NSWOCC CEO Retirement Announcement

Over 450 Clinicians from acute care, long-term care, and community settings came together in March 2026 for a series of immersive, in-person workshops hosted by NSWOCC in partnership with WoundWISE. Delivered across Regina, Saskatoon, and Alberta, these station-based sessions focused on practical wound care training, collaboration, and professional development. Attendees came together across three March dates at The Hotel Saskatchewan (March 24), The Saskatoon Inn and Conference Centre (March 26), and the Chateau Louis Hotel and Conference Centre (March 31). Each session centred on a shared goal: strengthening clinical skills “from cleanse to close” through hands-on, best practice–driven education. Participants rotated through interactive learning stations that delivered real-world product training and advanced wound care insights across the full healing continuum, from acute to chronic wounds. Each station was led by NSWOC educators, with support from industry partners Biomiq, Solventum, Perfuse Medtec, Essity, Schaan Healthcare Products, NanoTess, Medline, and Hollister, whose collaboration helped create a rich and engaging learning environment. These workshops gave healthcare professionals the opportunity to practice techniques, explore new innovations, and build confidence in wound assessment and management, while also connecting with peers across a range of care settings. The atmosphere in both London and Toronto reflected a shared commitment to ongoing learning, clinical excellence, and improving patient outcomes through evidence-informed practice. A Sincere thank you to our NSWOC educators, our dedicated industry partners, and WoundWISE for making these free educational opportunities possible. Stay tuned for upcoming hands-on workshops and clinical education events as NSWOCC continues to support nurses and clinicians across Canada with high-quality, practical training experiences.

Four months after the release of the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations in Wound Care for People Who Use Drugs: A Harm Reduction Approach, this podcast offers an opportunity to revisit not just what was created—but why it was created, and how. Developed by Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) in partnership with the Harm Reduction Nurses Association (HRNA) and the Ontario Network of People Who Use Drugs (ONPUD), the Best Practice Recommendations (BPRs) marked a significant step forward in advancing more inclusive, evidence-informed wound care. While the document itself was officially launched in December 2025, this podcast—recorded prior to its release—captures the intention, care, and collaboration that shaped its development from the very beginning. As shared by Corey Ranger, Andrzej Celinski, Priyanka Jani, and Lili Berescu, this work was never intended to be developed quickly. Instead, it was approached with intention—ensuring that all voices were heard, particularly those with lived and living experience, and that the process itself reflected the same principles of harm reduction that the document promotes. The panelists reflect on the time, collaboration, and thoughtfulness required to create guidance that is not only clinically sound, but also compassionate, equitable, and grounded in real-world practice. Throughout the podcast, it becomes clear that these BPRs are more than a clinical resource—they represent a shift in how care is understood and delivered. Rooted in harm reduction, the recommendations position wound care as a critical point of connection: an opportunity to build trust, reduce stigma, and engage individuals who may otherwise be excluded from traditional healthcare systems. This intention is echoed across the discussion, with speakers emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are, without judgment, and recognizing the broader social and structural factors that influence health. The conversation also reinforces the collaborative and inclusive model that defined the development of the BPRs. By bringing together clinicians, researchers, and individuals with lived experience through partnerships with HRNA and ONPUD, the recommendations reflect both clinical expertise and community insight. This approach—also highlighted in the original launch—ensures that the guidance is not only evidence-based, but meaningful, practical, and responsive to the needs of those it is designed to support. Importantly, the podcast looks ahead as much as it looks back. The speakers describe the BPRs as a starting point—an evolving resource meant to be applied, adapted, and built upon over time. Together, the podcast and the document underscore a shared goal: to advance more compassionate, person-centred care and to continue pushing the boundaries of what equitable healthcare can and should look like. Access the Best Practice Recommendations The Canadian Best Practice Recommendations in Wound Care for People Who Use Drugs: A Harm Reduction Approach are now available online. We encourage all clinicians, educators, and healthcare leaders to explore the document and consider how these recommendations can be applied within their own practice and organizations: Review the full Best Practice Recommendations Share the resource with your team and colleagues Integrate harm reduction principles into your wound care practice Access the BPRs here: https://nswoc.ca/bpr#wound-care-pwud Together, by revisiting this work and continuing the conversation, we can build on its foundation and advance safer, more inclusive, and more compassionate care for people who use drugs across Canada. Speakers Featured in the Podcast The podcast brings together a thoughtful and well-rounded group of speakers whose perspectives reflect the intersection of clinical practice, advocacy, education, and lived experience in harm reduction. Corey Ranger, President of the Harm Reduction Nurses Association (HRNA), brings a strong national leadership voice grounded in frontline nursing practice. With over a decade of experience in street outreach, community, and public health settings, Corey has been deeply engaged in harm reduction work since 2013. In the discussion, he speaks to the evolution of harm reduction within healthcare systems, emphasizing the need for nurses and interdisciplinary teams to adopt flexible, patient-centered approaches. He highlights how integrating harm reduction into wound care is not only practical, but essential to improving access, building trust, and reducing preventable complications among underserved populations. Andrzej Celinski, a member of the Canadian Association of People Who Use Drugs (CAPUD), contributes a critical and deeply reflective perspective shaped by both lived and learned experience. With academic training in environmental studies and urban planning from York University, Andrzej situates harm reduction within broader systems—particularly housing, urban infrastructure, and public policy. In the podcast, he challenges listeners to consider how drug prohibition and structural inequities create and sustain harm, while advocating for approaches that prioritize dignity, autonomy, and community-led solutions. His insights reinforce the importance of including people with lived experience in the development of best practice recommendations. Priyanka Jani brings a dynamic blend of clinical experience and grassroots advocacy to the conversation. As a nurse who has worked across long-term care, public health, and community settings in Hamilton and Kitchener, Priyanka has developed a strong foundation in supporting diverse and often underserved populations. Her work as a Consumption Treatment Service (CTS) nurse with Sanguen Health Centre, along with her leadership role on the Board of Directors of the Student Overdose Prevention Education Network (SOPEN), has positioned her at the forefront of harm reduction education and outreach. In the podcast, she speaks to the importance of meeting patients where they are and ensuring that wound, ostomy, and continence care is accessible, equitable, and responsive to the realities of people who use drugs and those experiencing housing insecurity. Lili Berescu offers a deeply community-rooted perspective informed by years of practice in the Waterloo region. As an NSWOC and WOCC(C)-certified nurse, Lili has worked across a range of settings including Consumption Treatment Services, public health, outreach programs, and safer supply initiatives. Their experience in various health settings has provided unique insight into the complexities of delivering care in harm reduction environments. In the discussion, Lili emphasizes the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals feel heard and respected, and highlights how integrating harm reduction principles into everyday nursing practice can strengthen relationships, improve outcomes, and support more compassionate systems of care.