It has been a challenging start to holiday season at CHEO. The virulent spread and early arrival of influenza (flu), RSV and COVID-19 viruses this year have brought thousands of families through our doors. Starting in October, we’ve had a record number of admissions to hospital, mostly very young children who need help breathing. Providing this care has meant we have had to delay care for others. And that is difficult for everyone.
And as we head into the holiday season, Team CHEO continues to be all-hands-on-deck, laser focussed on providing whatever urgent and critical care kids and youth need.
But unfortunately, viruses don’t take holidays. We are prepared to remain super busy through the holiday season and well into the new year. If you need us, CHEO is here — no matter the time or the holiday.
Whether you celebrate Hannukah (Dec. 18-26), Christmas (Dec. 25), Kwanzaa (Dec. 26 - Jan. 1), Orthodox Christmas (Jan. 7) or any other festive holiday, we wish you the best. Team CHEO cares about children, youth and families — each and every one of you, no matter what. It’s simple. We’re here for you and support you, regardless of your story, origin, race, gender, beliefs or needs.
Our wish for you and your family this holiday season is that you enjoy good health surrounded by love. And, in our sometimes uncertain world, that you are also able to enjoy the kindness and patience of strangers.
Happy holidays!
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About CHEO
Dedicated to the best life for every child and youth, CHEO is a global leader in pediatric health care and research. Based in Ottawa, CHEO includes a hospital, children’s treatment centre, school and research institute, with satellite services located throughout eastern Ontario. CHEO provides excellence in complex pediatric care, research and education. We are committed to partnering with families and the community to provide exceptional care — where, when and how it’s needed. CHEO is a partner of the Kids Come First Health Team, a network of partners in eastern Ontario working to create a high quality, standardized and co-ordinated system for pediatric health care centred around children, youth and their families. Every year, CHEO helps more than 500,000 children and youth from eastern Ontario, western Quebec, Nunavut and northern Ontario.