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CHRONIC CEREBOSPINAL VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY FOUNDATION OF CANADA PRESENTATION
Mr. S. Garvie, President of The Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI) Foundation of Canada provided a presentation concerning Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency surgeries (CCVSI) and his Foundation. Mr. Garvie outlined the symptoms associated with Chronic Cerebral Spinal Venous Insufficiency. He commented that Dr. Paolo Zamboni discovered the procedure in 2009. He provided images demonstrating the areas of possible blockage associated with CCSVI and the impacts of blockages. He outlined the various diseases associated with improper blood flow. He noted that 6 procedures have been done at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre by Dr. S. McDonald including his own procedure. Mr. Garvie described his experience with the procedure and the benefits of having it done. He highlighted actions taken to date to promote the procedure including meetings in Ottawa, speaking with MP's and Senators. He provided his thoughts on the clinical trials and his perceptions regarding the reasons why the procedure is not currently performed in Canada. Mr. Garvie reviewed the yearly costs involved with funding for an individual with CCSVI compared to a once only procedure cost. He highlighted the functions of the M.S. Society and how they utilize their funds. He provided a video clip testimonial from an individual regarding their experience after having the procedure performed.
In closing, Mr Garvie commented that he feels people do not understand that the fight associated with making this procedure available and that there is skilled physicians in Barrie who can perform the procedure.
The Committee Members and Councillors in attendance asked a number of questions related to the information provided and received responses from the presenter.