Shannon Sidney

My name is Shannon Sidney, and I’m the Renal Program Manager for Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone. At the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, our Renal Unit delivers care six days a week to some of our island’s most vulnerable patients.

Because of the generosity of donors in our community, the Renal Fund is helping patients overcome barriers to treatment. As you can imagine, traveling for care multiple times a week means additional costs, while also hindering income opportunities.

Gift cards for groceries, travel, and medication ease the financial burdens patients face, because no one should have to choose between affording necessities and the care they need most. Firsthand, I get to see the relief in a patient’s eyes when they learn the Renal Fund will cover a tank of gas that brings them to treatment, or a medication that was out of budget. These moments happen through the kindness of donors. 

For the last five years, I have worked alongside a wonderful and dedicated team, committed to caring for patients with dignity, comfort and support.

Along with directly easing financial burdens that patients can face during their renal care journeys, your gift can help provide comfort and support to patients during their treatments. 

Obtaining new dialysis chairs will offer comfort throughout the extensive hours spent in-hospital. These chairs recline, prevent skin breakdown, and promote healthy activity with special stationary bike attachments. A transonic monitor will strengthen thecare we provide, allowing us to detect issues early and address them quickly. A new stretcher will allow for ease of patient transportation to procedures, reducing wait times.

This fund is an incredibly important resource for our community members, who count on renal dialysis for life-saving treatment. Until no patient needs us, we need you.

Kidney disease and the care it requires can take away some of the things cherished most. Precious time with family, the ability to work, financial stability and even independence. Working closely with each patient, my team and I see how important the Renal Fund is and how endlessly thankful patients are for the gifts that bring relief from the burdens of treatment, during an already stressful time.

If you are able, I hope you will consider giving to this important area of care. Every one of these life-saving treatments delivered each week goes to a friend, a neighbor or a family member from our community.

Sincerest gratitude,

Shannon Sidney
Renal Program Manager, Eastern Zone
Cape Breton Regional Hospital