Please tell us about your journey to StayWell, what led you to us, where does your story begin?
"I am a 66-year-old woman who has been diagnosed with end-stage COPD and Pulmonary Hypertension, which requires me to use oxygen around the clock. These conditions greatly reduced my quality of life. After an extensive medical work-up, I was placed on the transplant list for a double lung transplant. Because of this, I needed to relocate six hours away from my home to Toronto General Hospital, where I would wait for the call and then remain for three months post-surgery. A social worker at TGH provided me with a list of possible accommodations, and that is how I thankfully connected with StayWell. They offered me a beautiful, clean condo at a very reasonable rate."
Where did you have to relocate from? How was the journey from home to Toronto?​
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"I relocated from Petawawa, Ontario, making the six-hour drive down to Toronto. Like so many others, I found Toronto traffic overwhelming, but having secure and comfortable accommodations waiting for me made the transition much easier."
What were the things you found difficult? How did StayWell help?​
"One of the hardest parts of this journey was the uncertainty—when you first arrive, you don’t know how long you will be waiting for that important phone call. Initially, I booked for a certain period, but when I hadn’t received my transplant by then, I needed to extend my stay. At first, there was concern about a significant rate increase for the extension. I reached out again to explain that I had already been staying there for four months, and StayWell responded with great understanding. They honored my existing rate and allowed me to continue my stay, which made a very difficult time so much more manageable."
What were the positive aspects of your stay?​
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"The building where I stayed, located at 99 Gerrard Street West, was exceptional. I can’t say enough good things about the management and staff—every single one of them was pleasant, helpful, and welcoming. The building was always clean, secure, and well-maintained. It was truly stellar accommodation, and I felt supported, safe, and comfortable during one of the most challenging periods of my life."
Would you recommend StayWell to other patients in need of access to medical care in Toronto?​
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"Yes."
