Since the early 90s, Ed Bauza has been navigating the challenges of kidney disease with the help of dialysis treatment at Scarborough Health Network (SHN), marking over a quarter-century of unwavering support and high-quality care.

“I was diagnosed at Scarborough General Hospital by Dr. Robert Ting, and ever since then I have started dialysis treatment to save my life. The care I received from all the doctors and nurses has always been amazing,” he says.

From Diagnosis to Transplant

When Ed and his wife Elvira immigrated to Scarborough, he worked for 30 years in Canada before retiring and settling down in the community he loves to call home. It was during his working years that he was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy (Berger Disease) – a condition in which protein builds up, causing inflammation and damage to the kidney’s filtering units.

Ed has always been supported by his wife Elvira, who has been deeply involved in his medical journey.
“Ed survived this long because I made sure to keep his medical history together. I have a list of all his specialists, medications, illnesses, everything you can think of,” says Elvira.

In 2005, Ed got called for a kidney transplant and was given a second chance at life.
“I had a cadaver kidney transplant, and even though I don’t know his name, I am very thankful. I had that kidney up until 2017,” he says. “After 12 years the kidney failed, and ever since then I have returned to Scarborough General Hospital to continue getting dialysis.”

The Growing Need for Dialysis in Scarborough

Ed’s story highlights the pressing need for the expansion of dialysis services in Scarborough, a community where over 59% of residents are new Canadians. Many of these individuals are at a heightened genetic risk of developing diabetes and kidney disease—factors that contribute significantly to the increased demand for such healthcare services.

SHN operates one of the largest Regional Nephrology Programs in North America, caring for more than 6,000 patients every year. Its exceptional nephrology doctors, nurses, and staff save countless lives each day. However, the need for dialysis is growing, and the existing spaces are aging and will not be able to keep up with future demands.

Why Community Support Matters

Expansion of dialysis care will help SHN meet this escalating need and continue providing lifesaving treatment to patients like Ed.

As one of the first and longest-standing dialysis patients in SHN’s nephrology program, Ed is grateful to see progress being made and encourages the community to come together in support.

“There’s a conversation that has to be had. We need donations, volunteers and support from our government. It’s important to spread the message and help educate people of the adversities our hospitals are going through.”