28 Years of Protecting Neighbours
Vancouver, B.C. – In April 2020, when COVID-19 was a new threat to the world, Corwin Kwan bravely stepped up. Doctors were just learning how the virus affected patients, and vaccine development was in the first stages. They needed all hands on deck. This REALTOR® with Sutton - Centre Realty had volunteered with St. John Ambulance (SJA) for 27 years. Knowing he could make a difference and help out, he volunteered with a field hospital at the Vancouver Convention Centre near the waterfront.
Corwin joined other volunteers from SJA and health authorities to develop and set up the alternate care centre at the convention centre. It was intended to accept lower-acuity patients, which would free up Vancouver’s hospitals to deal with patients in critical care.
Corwin recalls, “We learned how to properly use PPE to protect ourselves and limit virus transmission. Thorough hand washing, and safe methods of donning and doffing masks, gloves, face shields, and hospital gowns were our main focus. We also learned how to use the on-site equipment to assist nurses.”
This week, Corwin was awarded a Pandemic Service Medallion by SJA for his work to support those on the frontlines of the pandemic.
As emerging variants and other factors contribute to waves of infection, SJA volunteers, including Corwin, have had to remain vigilant; they could be called to serve at any time. Fortunately, this temporary hospital at the Vancouver Convention Centre has not yet been used. The Health Ministry and Vancouver Coastal Health agreed to close the facility mid-July 2021, although it could be remobilized.
Corwin began his work with SJA by earning his First Aid certification, then he volunteered to perform patient care, as needed, at events around the city. He became a leader for two divisions, joined the provincial team, and took on a leadership role as Community Services Coordinator with his current division.
His 28th year of service is ending and he's ready to jump into his 29th year. Once in-class sessions begin for the youth, hopefully this autumn, Corwin looks forward to shaping the volunteers of tomorrow.
In December 2020, when most events, including Operation MacKenzie, were still cancelled, Corwin and his wife Yvonne Kwan, purchased dozens of gifts and dropped them off at the headquarters of the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau. This charity typically assists 800 to 1,000 families in need each holiday season.
Stay tuned for more from Corwin. We know he'll be giving all year long as the world opens up, as he says, "I am very fortunate and can't imagine a better way than to give back to my community. It feels good and it's helping others. I was raised by great parents who taught me to be selfless and I know the future is bright."
Sutton is a 100% Canadian-owned and operated company with more than 6,500 REALTORS® in over 200 offices nationwide. To find out more about Sutton, visit www.sutton.com. To learn more about Sutton Spirit, visit www.suttonspirit.com.
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Sutton Group Realty Services Ltd. Contact:
Brooke Matthews
604-691-1689
stories@suttonspirit.com
Sutton - Centre Realty Contact:
Corwin Kwan
604-435-9477
ckwan@sutton.com