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Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®), through its Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute, is proud to partner with the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care on a groundbreaking initiative to expand wound, ostomy, and continence care expertise across Ontario’s long-term care homes. NSWOCC Chief Executive Officer Cathy Harley and WOC Institute Academic Chair Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc joined the Honourable Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, for the announcement in Markham, Ontario. On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, NSWOCC Chief Executive Officer Cathy Harley and WOC Institute Academic Chair Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc joined the Honourable Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, for the announcement at Union Villa Long-Term Care in Markham, Ontario. This investment will enhance quality of life for residents by enabling faster, more convenient care while reducing emergency department visits and preventable hospitalizations. Expanding Clinical Capacity Across Ontario The Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care is funding enhanced training for 150 Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs)  through NSWOCC’s CNA-accredited Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN™) Program , as well as 600 Personal Support Workers (PSWs)  through NSWOCC’s CNA-accredited PSW and Caregiver Skin Health Education Course . This investment covers tuition and registration fees , as well as backfill support  for participating long-term care homes. Backfill funding will be administered through NSWOCC, ensuring staff can participate in training without compromising resident care. This initiative builds on previous provincial funding that supported 90 practical nurses and diploma-educated RNs to enroll in the SWAN Program earlier this year . Read the Government of Ontario announcement: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1006741/ontario-investing-37-million-to-expand-skin-and-wound-care-training-in-long-term-care-homes About the SWAN™ Program The CNA-accredited Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN™)  Program provides advanced education in wound, ostomy, and continence care, preparing RPNs to become clinical leaders and wound, ostomy and continence champions within their workplaces. Program Features (5 months): 26 online modules Self-directed clinical preceptorship Ongoing mentorship with CNA-certified NSWOCs Bi-weekly interactive learning sessions The 150 funded participants will join a dedicated SWAN cohort  separate from the regular Winter 2026 intake to ensure focused academic and mentorship support. SWANs are nationally recognized for their advanced knowledge and their essential role in preventing wounds, managing complex cases, and improving patient outcomes. About the PSW and Caregiver Skin Health Course This CNA-accredited 12-week online course equips PSWs with foundational skills in skin, wound, ostomy, and continence care, empowering them to identify early signs of skin breakdown and escalate concerns promptly. Course Overview: Format: 100% online, self-paced Time Commitment: 4–5 hours/week Modules: 8 interactive modules + resources and workbooks Support: Weekly mentorship with a CNA-certified NSWOC Accreditation: 10 CNA educational hours "We applaud the Ontario government for this investment in enhancing the skin and wound care knowledge of registered practical nurses and personal support workers, which demonstrates their commitment to quality improvement and sustainability. Through this action, the government is demonstrating their respect for the health and dignity of seniors living in Ontario." Catherine Harley, CEO, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) How to Apply For Registered Practical Nurses – CNA-Accredited SWAN™ Program Application Form: https://www.wocinstitute.ca/swan Deadline:  January 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST Eligibility:  Practical nurses or diploma-educated RNs employed in Ontario long-term care homes For Personal Support Workers – CNA-Accredited PSW and Caregiver Skin Health Course Application Form: https://www.wocinstitute.ca/psw Deadline:  January 10, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST Eligibility:  Personal Support Workers employed in Ontario long-term care homes

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is proud to highlight the inspiring work of Amanda Sowiak, RN, BN, NSWOC, WOCC , a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) and dedicated member of our Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program . Amanda serves as a Care Specialist and Educator  with the Blood Tribe Nation Department of Health , working out of the Levern Clinic in Alberta. Her compassionate care and clinical expertise recently led to an incredible success story — a two-year healing journey for a client whose life was forever changed by her dedication. The client suffered a severe foot infection after stepping on a nail while hunting, which developed into necrotizing fasciitis — a life-threatening condition that nearly cost him his limb. On the operating table, amputation seemed imminent, but the surgeon recognized a possibility to save the leg. Working closely with the care team, Amanda guided the complex wound care process and remained committed to the client’s healing journey every step of the way. After two years of perseverance, the wound has now fully closed — a testament to Amanda’s expertise, compassion, and the impact of specialized nursing care in community and Indigenous health settings. Watch the full, heartwarming video here:   https://vimeo.com/1132379758/2c934a0087?fl=pl&fe=sh Share Your Story Do you have an inspiring story to share — or know an NSWOC or SWAN who does?We’d love to help highlight your impact and share your journey with the broader community on our website and in our newsletter. Submit your story here: https://forms.office.com/r/Dm18419iQ6 Nominate a Member for the NSWOCC Membership Award You can also nominate an NSWOCC Member for the NSWOCC Membership Award! Please share the story of why this Member should be recognized — including details about their contributions, leadership, or achievements . You may provide examples, dates, and any relevant context to strengthen your nomination. Submit your nomination here:   https://membersnswoc.ca/award_nominations.phtml

Deadline: January 10, 2026 Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) is seeking passionate leaders to join our Board of Directors. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of wound, ostomy, and continence care in Canada while representing the voice of our members. Read below for the open positions and how to apply online at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations . Open Positions: Executive Board: President-Elect Serves two years as President-Elect, commencing after the Annual Members Meeting on April 25, 2026, followed by two years as president, followed by one year as Past President. View the full role description online at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations Secretary Term: 2 years, commencing after the Annual Members Meeting on April 25, 2026. Treasurer has the opportunity to run for an additional 2 years. View the full role description online at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations Regional Directors NSWOCC is organized into five regions to ensure strong communication and local representation across the country. Each Regional Director is elected at the Annual Members Meeting and serves as both a voice for their region and a voting Board member. There is also a SWAN Director position, representing the voice of SWANs and SWAN Students, on the Board as a voting member. Term:  2 years, with the opportunity to run for an additional 2 years Regional Directors: Provide regional perspectives to national decision-making Host two regional meetings each year (in-person or virtual) Strengthen communication and connection between members and the national organization View the full role description online at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations Open Positions: Ontario Regional Director Québec Regional Director Atlantic Regional Director NOMINATIONS DEADLINE: JANUARY 10, 2026 Required Nomination Forms If you are interesting in nominating someone to the NSWOCC Board of Directors, you must complete the Nomination Form on our website at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations , which will be reviewed by the NSWOCC Nominating Committee Chair. ​ Once a nomination is received and reviewed by the Nominating Committee Chair, the candidate will be notified of their nomination and will be asked to complete the Nominations Acceptance and Consent to Serve Form online at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations . If you have been nominated for an Officer or Regional Director Position, please complete the Nominations Acceptance and Consent to Serve Form online at https://www.nswoc.ca/call-for-nominations to complete the nomination process. ​ Please note that both forms must be completed by January 10, 2026 in order for a candidate to be an eligible nominee for election.​ ​ For any questions or inquires please contact office@nswoc.ca . Nominations to the NSWOCC Board of Directors will be considered based on meeting the NSWOCC Bylaw requirements. ​ NSWOCC By Laws 5.03: Board Director Qualifications ​ Directors shall: be an individual who is not less than eighteen years of age; be a Member of the Association for a minimum of two (2) years as a member in good standing; except Directors appointed pursuant to section 5.06, shall be a Member of the Association; not be an employee or representative of a company whose primary business involves the development, manufacture and sole distribution of products in the field of wound, ostomy and or continence care; not be a contractor of the Association; or not be a person who has been found by a court in Canada or elsewhere to be mentally incompetent, who has the status of a bankrupt, or who is an “ineligible individual” as defined in the Income Tax Act. Submission Deadline for each file: January 10th, 2026

Ottawa, October 23, 2025– We are pleased to announce that Mr. Jonathan Mancor of Ottawa, Ontario has been promoted to the position of the Program Coordinator for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute.   Jonathan joined NSWOCC ®  as an Executive Assistant July, 2024 where he has provided administrative and technical support to the organization. In the role of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute Program Coordinator, Jonathan will report to Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, Academic Chair, playing a pivotal role in planning, coordinating, and evaluating educational programs, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional learner experiences. He will support faculty, students, and staff by overseeing daily program administration and contributing to the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute’s reputation as a leader in wound, ostomy, and continence education. “Jonathan is a creative team player who has been providing administrative and technical support to NSWOCC ® gaining a strong understanding of our organization” said Cathy Harley, Chief Executive Officer of NSWOCC ® . “His technical ability is a strong asset to the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute and we look forward to the application of his expertise and resourcefulness in supporting the faculty in providing an outstanding student experience.” Jonathan graduated from John Abbott College in Montreal with a diploma in Graphic and Web Design. He then went on to attend Algonquin College where he graduated in Internet Applications and Web Development. He is currently completing a Bachelor of Science in computing and information systems at Athabasca University. He also recently completed the Industry Skin Wellness (ISWA) Program to gain knowledge in wound, ostomy and continence.   Jonathan has experience working in marketing within the healthcare sector. He previously worked for Orleans Family Health Clinic where he worked with pharmacists and healthcare professionals. He has also held a marketing role with Jean Coutu Pharmacy in Ottawa and Kardish Health Food where he was responsible for campaigns relating to health food.  We look forward to having Jonathan as a part of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute Team where he will apply his knowledge and skill set to advancing the NSWOCC ®  mission and the specialized nurses that we serve.     Please join us in welcoming Jonathan to this new position!

Ottawa, ON — October 21, 2025 — Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC ® ) is proud to announce the promotion of Troy Curtis to the  Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective immediately. Troy joined NSWOCC ® in July 2019 as Manager of Membership and Communications and has served as NSWOCC ® ’s Director of Operations since 2021, where he has played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s operational infrastructure, membership engagement, and digital transformation. In the role of  COO, Troy will report to the Chief Executive Officer, and be responsible for  NSWOCC ®’ s national operations and membership services, marketing and communications, digital strategy, and event management . He will also continue to support the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP) and the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP) .  “Troy has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation during his time with NSWOCC ® ,” said Cathy Harley, Chief Executive Officer of NSWOCC ® . “His strategic insight, operational excellence, and dedication to our Members have been instrumental in our growth. As COO, he will continue to drive NSWOCC ® ’s vision forward with energy and purpose.” Troy holds a Bachelor of Humanities (Honours) from Carleton University and a Certificate in Fundamentals of Global Sports Management from New York University. He will begin his Master of Business Administration (MBA) studies at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business in October 2025. In addition to his leadership at NSWOCC ® , Troy has served as a Director on the Board of Ostomy Canada Society since 2020, contributing to national governance, strategic planning, and marketing & communications initiatives for the patient community. “I am deeply honoured to take on this new role and responsibilities,” said Troy Curtis. “NSWOCC ® is a model of collaboration and innovation in specialized wound, ostomy and continence nursing across Canada and is positioned globally as a leader. I look forward to continuing to advance our mission by expanding our national impact in order to better serve our members in supporting the patients they serve.” With Troy’s promotion to Chief Operating Officer, NSWOCC ® continues its commitment to sustainable growth, operational excellence, and innovative leadership. His strategic vision and passion for collaboration will help advance NSWOCC ® ’s mission: We believe that everyone deserves specialized wound, ostomy and continence care. Please join us in congratulating Troy Curtis on his promotion to Chief Operating Officer of NSWOCC ® . Troy can be reached via email at tcurtis@nswoc.ca .

Ottawa, ON — October 22, 2025 — Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC ® ) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Kevin Woo, PhD, RN, FAPWCA, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC as Chief Research Officer (CRO), effective immediately.   Dr. Woo has led the NSWOCC ® Research and Practice Core Program for the past five years as a volunteer, supporting the development of scoping reviews, best practice recommendations, and research initiatives. His leadership in enhancing members’ knowledge in research and its application to clinical practice has been exemplary.   As Chief Research Officer, Dr. Woo will develop and lead the establishment of a National NSWOCC ® Research Centre of Excellence, aligning research initiatives with NSWOCC’s mission, values, and strategic priorities. He will also collaborate closely with the WOC Institute Academic Chair to ensure research activities align with professional practice standards and system priorities.   “Dr. Kevin Woo has a proven track record and has made a lasting impact in wound, ostomy, and continence research in Canada and internationally,” said Cathy Harley, Chief Executive Officer of NSWOCC®. “We have seen him deliver exceptional research training and capacity-building initiatives for NSWOCC ® members, and we are grateful for his ongoing leadership.”   Dr. Woo is a Professor at Queen’s University, School of Nursing and School of Rehabilitation Therapy in Kingston, Canada. His clinical and research interests include chronic disease management, gerontology, wound healing, knowledge translation, and patient safety, using diverse research methods and large administrative databases. He teaches and supervises both undergraduate and graduate students in the Healthcare Quality, Aging and Health, and Nursing Science programs.   In addition, Dr. Woo serves as an Adjunct Professor at Curtin University School of Nursing. He is an active national and international lecturer in wound prevention and management and maintains his clinical practice in Toronto. With Dr. Woo’s appointment as Chief Research Officer, NSWOCC ® strengthens its commitment to advancing evidence-based practice and building a robust research infrastructure to better serve its members and the patients they care for. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Kevin Woo on this important appointment.

Ottawa, ON — October 21, 2025  — Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC ® ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Bruce Millar, CIM, FCSI, FICB, MBA, CPA, CMA  as the organization’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Human Resources Manager . With more than 30 years of experience in finance, governance, and education, Bruce brings extensive leadership expertise to his new role. He has held senior positions in both the public and private sectors, including roles in finance, risk management, and administration at PPP Canada, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), and Export Development Canada, as well as service as a Naval Intelligence Officer with the Department of National Defence. As CFO and Human Resources Manager, Bruce will oversee NSWOCC ® ’s financial operations, risk management, and human resources functions to ensure strong fiscal stewardship, compliance, and organizational sustainability. He holds an MBA from Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), an Executive Management Certificate from Harvard Business School, and a Professional Certificate in Strategic Decision Analysis and Risk Management from Stanford University. Bruce is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA-CMA), a Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI), and a Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers (FICB). “Bruce’s extensive experience in corporate governance, strategic risk management, and charitable finance make him an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” said Cathy Harley, Chief Executive Officer of NSWOCC ® . “His proven record of accountability and innovation will help NSWOCC® continue to deliver excellence in financial integrity and human resources management.” In addition to his financial leadership, Bruce served as the Chair of the Board for Winchester District Memorial Hospital and has held governance roles with the Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa and the Royal Military College Foundation. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and Nipissing University, where he teaches finance and accounting. Bruce’s combined expertise in financial management, governance, and human resources will support NSWOCC ® ’s continued growth and organizational excellence. His leadership will be instrumental in enhancing financial sustainability, ensuring compliance with charitable regulations, and strengthening contractor engagement across our national programs and initiatives. Please join us in welcoming Bruce Millar to the NSWOCC ® leadership team. We look forward to the strategic insight and collaborative spirit he brings to the role.

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) proudly congratulates Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, RN, PhD, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN, FNSWOC, FAAN , Academic Chair of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute , on her induction as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN)  during a ceremony held on October 18, 2025 . The FAAN  designation is among the most prestigious international honours in nursing, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to health and nursing  on a global scale. The American Academy of Nursing  serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. With more than 3,200 Fellows , the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia. Dr. LeBlanc’s induction reflects her tremendous impact on nursing education, research, and clinical excellence , as well as her ongoing leadership in specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care  across Canada and internationally. Earlier this year, Dr. LeBlanc was also honoured as an inaugural NSWOC Fellow  at the 2025 NSWOCC National Conference in Montréal, Quebec. This Fellowship represents the highest honour bestowed by NSWOCC, recognizing individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the tri-specialty of wound, ostomy, and continence care  through evidence-based practice, education, and advocacy. NSWOCC and the WOC Institute extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. LeBlanc for her exceptional achievements and unwavering commitment to advancing nursing practice and patient care worldwide. Learn more about the inaugural NSWOC Fellows here:   https://www.nswoc.ca/inaugural-fellows

Headquartered in Ottawa, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) is a national, registered charity that represents nurses and allied health professionals dedicated to advancing the care of Canadians living with challenges in wound, ostomy, and continence health. With more than 1,300 members across every province and territory, NSWOCC® brings together front-line nurses, educators, researchers, administrators, and industry partners who collectively support best practices and improved patient outcomes. NSWOCC wholly owns and operates the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute which provides educational programs, in English and French, to train Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs®) and Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs) and also provides continuing education programs through a Learning Management System. NSWOCC® also manages the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP®) and the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP). Reporting to the President and the Board of Directors, the new Chief Executive Officer will provide strategic leadership, fiscal oversight, and operational excellence to advance the mission of the organization. Working with a dedicated team of staff and volunteer leaders, the CEO will guide strategic and business planning, ensure sound governance, and oversee financial management, human resources, and organizational operations. The CEO will also build strong partnerships with governments, healthcare organizations, and allied associations to elevate the profile of wound, ostomy and continence nursing across Canada. As the public face of NSWOCC, the CEO will champion advocacy initiatives, expand membership value, and enhance the organization’s visibility through education, outreach, and the advancement of evidence-based nursing practice, ensuring that NSWOCC® sets the standard in clinical wound, ostomy and continence practice excellence, and continues to grow as a respected and influential voice within the Canadian healthcare system. This includes supporting the Canadian Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence (CJWOC), the official publication of NSWOCC®. The ideal candidate will be a strategic and inspiring leader with proven experience in healthcare, association management, and the registered charity/not-for-profit sector. With a strong understanding of Canada’s healthcare landscape, they will bring expertise in governance, financial stewardship, and organizational development, coupled with the ability to advance policy and advocacy priorities at national, provincial, and territorial levels. As a collaborative relationship builder, the successful candidate will demonstrate integrity, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to advancing wound, ostomy and continence nursing. They will possess exceptional communication and negotiation skills, strong business and financial acumen, and the ability to engage effectively with a broad range of stakeholders, including government, partner associations, and patient organizations. Entrepreneurial and results-driven, the ideal candidate will inspire staff, have a demonstrated ability to work with volunteers, and members alike, while ensuring that NSWOCC® continues to deliver measurable value, visibility, and impact across Canada’s healthcare system. Please Note: All NSWOCC® staff, including the CEO, are engaged on a contract basis. In this model, the CEO would operate as an incorporated business. The CEO contract is set for a term of 5years, with annual cost of living adjustments and the opportunity for renewal and continuity based on mutual agreement. To Apply To fill this position, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada has partnered with leadership advisory firm Odgers. Applications are encouraged immediately and should be submitted online. For more information, please contact Alexandra McKinney , Consultant of Odgers. We would like to thank all applicants but regret that we are only able to personally contact those individuals whose backgrounds best match the requirements for the role. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the Accessible Canada Act, 2019 and all applicable provincial accessibility standards, upon request, accommodation will be provided by both Odgers and Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities. Odgers is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all the work that we do. As part of our efforts to better understand our ability to reach as broad a pool of candidates as possible for our searches, our DEI team would like to encourage you to take a moment and access our Self-Declaration Form.

You are invited to attend the Canadian Pressure Injury Summit on Friday, November 21, 2025, titled: “Repositioning Pressure Injuries: Shifting Mindsets and Transforming Culture to Support Practice Excellence.” Join provincial and federal leaders, healthcare administrators, and interprofessional experts as we work together to advance pressure injury (PI) prevention and management across Canada. Attendees will engage in presentations and critical discussions to identify gaps in national PI care and explore solutions aligned with the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP) Strategic Plan. CPIAP is the Pan-Canadian Interprofessional Approach to Address the Prevention and Management of Pressure Injuries and is an Official Interest Group of NSWOCC. The Summit will take place 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM EST at Richcraft Hall, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, and virtually via Zoom. This Summit aligns with Worldwide Pressure Injury Prevention Day, which takes place November 21, 2025. Whether you join in person or online, this Summit offers a unique platform to learn, collaborate, and contribute to meaningful change. Your expertise and perspective are invaluable in shaping the future of PI prevention and management in every province and territory. Register today to be part of this nationwide effort to improve patient outcomes and advance pressure injury prevention and management. Educational Program The day will feature keynote presentations, patient perspectives, evidence-based strategies from leading institutions, national policy recommendations, interactive sessions on technology, data collection, and culture change, and a panel debate on the avoidability of pressure injuries. Attendees will leave with practical insights to enhance care and outcomes across Canada. Call for Abstracts: Share Your Pressure Injury Initiatives at the Canadian Pressure Injury Summit You are invited to submit an abstract to highlight and showcase your Pressure Injury Initiatives, or your team’s or organization’s initiatives, aligned with the key strategic priorities of the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel: Pressure Injury Prioritization: Promoting Awareness of Pressure Injuries Pressure Injury Standardization: Implementation of guidelines and supporting pressure injury data collection Advocacy and Policy Change: Engaging policy makers Advocating for persons with lived experience and gaps in optimizing PI prevention and management Knowledge Translation and mobilization: Supporting and promoting pressure injury education among key partners and stakeholders Use of technology to support PI education and delivery Abstract Details Word Limit: Maximum 250 words (excluding references) Template: Include Aim, Methods, Results, and Conclusion. Creative submissions such as artwork are welcome; please provide background, aim/purpose, and key messages in relation to pressure injury prevention and management. Do not include author or affiliation details within the abstract body. Attendance: The primary author of accepted abstracts is encouraged to attend the CPIAP Summit to present their work in person or virtually. If attending virtually, please provide a contact email for questions. Confirmation of participation is required by Friday, November 7, 2025. Most Impactful Abstract Award: All accepted abstracts will be celebrated at the Summit. One abstract will be recognized as the “Most Impactful” based on alignment with CPIAP Strategic Priorities. Voting will combine 60% input from CPIAP Executive and Board Members and 40% from in-person attendees. Submission Deadline: Friday, October 17, 2025 Review: Abstracts will undergo a blind review by a CPIAP sub-committee. Authors will receive results by Friday, October 31, 2025.

On September 30, we pause to reflect on the painful legacy of Canada’s residential school system as we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This solemn day honours the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, their families, and the communities that have been deeply affected. It is a time to remember, to learn, and to commit to reconciliation. This day also coincides with Orange Shirt Day , an Indigenous-led grassroots movement that symbolizes the loss of culture and freedom that Indigenous children endured over generations. The orange shirt represents the stripping away of Indigenous identity and the deep impact of colonialism on Indigenous families and communities. The message behind Orange Shirt Day is clear: “Every Child Matters.” As healthcare professionals and Canadians, we carry the responsibility of not only recognizing this day but also taking action to support reconciliation. Awareness is the first step, but it must be followed by meaningful engagement and learning. In addition to wearing an orange shirt on this important day, we also encourage all NSWOCC Members to deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories and perspectives by enrolling in the free online Indigenous Canada Course offered by the University of Alberta. Indigenous Canada is a 12-lesson Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) from the  Faculty of Native Studies  that explores the different histories and contemporary perspectives of Indigenous peoples living in Canada. It is an opportunity to enhance knowledge and contribute to reconciliation through education. For those wishing to receive a certificate upon completion, these are also available for purchase. This September 30 and beyond, let us honour the voices of Indigenous communities and ensure that their stories are not forgotten. Sharing Circle To support equitable care, the NSWOCC Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program is proud to offer an online Sharing Circle website—a directory of resources, education, and support designed to help patients, NSWOCs, and healthcare professionals improve care for Indigenous peoples. This is an evolving resource, and we welcome your contributions. If you know of a tool, article, or resource that should be included, please share it with us at office@nswoc.ca so we can seek permission to add it to our directory.

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, NSWOCC was proud to host an exclusive members-only Ontario Regional Meeting and Education Event  at the Bayview Golf & Country Club in Thornhill, ON. This in-person event brought together nurses specialized in wound, ostomy, and continence (NSWOCs), Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs), and members of our broader community for an evening of learning, connection, and collaboration. The program began with registration and a team-building exercise, followed by organizational updates from NSWOCC. The second part of the evening was the Coloplast-sponsored dinner presentation , “Delivering Solutions Across the Tri-Specialty: Wound, Ostomy & Continence.” Three outstanding presenters shared their expertise: Erin Meger, RN, BScN, NSWOC  explored infection and biofilm management in wound care and presented insights into Biatain® Silicone Ag with 3D Fit Technology™. Josh Gohl, RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C)  delivered a practical session on convexity assessment in ostomy care, helping members refine their clinical product selection skills. Vinder Nat, RN, BScN  highlighted patient-centered innovation in continence care, showcasing the design features of SpeediCath® Flex and Eve. This evening was more than an education session — it was an opportunity for NSWOCC members to gather, share experiences, and strengthen our professional community in Ontario. We extend our sincere gratitude to Coloplast Canada  for partnering with us and making this event possible. Their dedication to advancing solutions across wound, ostomy, and continence care plays a vital role in supporting the work of our members. Stay tuned for future regional events across Canada as NSWOCC continues to provide opportunities for connection, growth, and innovation, and RSVP below if you can make the next Ontario Regional Meeting!