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Approximately 15% of youth in North America live with a chronic condition that requires transition to adult care at age 18 in Canada. However, in navigating the complexities of the cardiac health system, approximately 50% of youth do not successfully make this transition due to barriers such as reduced communication between patient and healthcare providers and increased individual responsibility for care. For many youths in the cardiac care system, anticipating the transition can feel daunting, and the journey ahead can seem too long to navigate alone.
What can make the greatest difference is support from peers with similar lived experiences who can share practical knowledge and instill hope.
The Cardiac Youth Council (CYC) is a group of youth withinthe Greater Toronto Area with experience with receiving cardiac care at SickKids, and in transitioning to Toronto General Hospital. We are comprised of youth between the ages of 14 and 24; each experiencing different elements of care through the Labatt Family Heart Centre. We all bring own unique perspective to co-create initiatives that support other youth in similar positions. The purpose of our council is to help other youth receiving cardiac support at SickKids Hospital feel less alone, and offer guidance to improve their overall well-being during the transition from youth to adult care.
