Our Work

Community-Building Events & Socials

We keep burn trauma survivors across Canada informed and connected to each other. We also host in-person and virtual gatherings where burn survivors and their families can connect in a safe and supportive environment. Some of these gatherings include Thriving After Burns, an annual one-day conference; a yearly winter holiday party; and free recreational activities and wellness programs.

Peer Support Groups

Wherever you are on your journey, just reach out and we’ll be there. Ask questions, share stories, and connect with others in the burn community! Peer support group meetings are facilitated by both burn survivors and mental health professionals with expertise in burn support recovery. 

Burn Survivors Support Group (CBSC): Held bi-weekly on alternating Saturdays at 8am PST/11am EST and Wednesdays at 5pm PST/8pm EST.

Loved Ones & Caregivers Support Group: Held every last Thursday of the month at 4pm PST/7pm EST.

Peer Support Training & Survivor Mentorship

We connect volunteers with the Phoenix Burn Society SOAR training program. We also offer burn trauma survivors one-on-one conversations with SOAR-trained peer supporters, who provide emotional support. In addition, we connect new burn survivors with mentors who have burn trauma who offer guidance, encouragement, and hope throughout their recovery journey.

Affiliations

Life After Burns partners with institutions, associations, and organizations to expand the reach and depth of support for survivors.

Key affiliations include:

  • Canadian Burn Survivors Community

  • Burn Units: Ross Tilley Burn Centre at Sunnybrook Hospital, SickKids Burn Unit, Hamilton Health Sciences Burn Unit

  • St. John’s Rehab Program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

  • Toronto Professional Firefighters’ Association (TPFFA)

Advocacy, Education, & Awareness

Life After Burns offers online educational workshops, and shares resources about burn trauma and mental health. We also advocate for stronger financial and social support for burn survivors, their loved ones, and emergency support workers. We also raise public awareness about burn recovery, the challenges survivors face, and the importance of inclusive support networks. Our founder furthers this mission through public speaking at conferences and support groups, as well as networking at leadership events.

Liaison Between Survivors & Community Supports

Let us know how we can assist you. We have a comprehensive range of burn trauma supports available that we can connect you with in your area. Whether you need medical assistance, psychological counseling, support groups, or rehabilitation services, we are here to guide you through the process of finding the right resources to support your unique recovery journey.

Burn Units

Life After Burns supports the Ross Tilly Burn Centre at Sunnybrook Hospital by visiting on hospital clinic days, offering assistance and encouragement to patients and their loved ones. Our team of volunteers provide emotional support, share personal recovery stories, and offer practical advice to burn survivors and their families. We also partner with the Phoenix Burn Society to train Sunnybrook staff, and ensure SOAR trained peer supporters are on site during our visit.