Why Progenics
Preserve your baby's stem cells with the industry's best. Since 2004, Progenics has banked over 24,000 cord blood units with a 98% average recovery rate of total nucleated cells (TNC), a 94.2% recovery rate of viable stem cells, and a 100% successful cord blood transplant rate. We guarantee quality results with our unique processing method - if your baby's cord blood has <85% yield in total nucleated cells after processing, we will waive the processing fee.
Accreditations
Progenics is an AABB accredited, Health Canada, and FDA registered facility with experience in processing cord blood for successful transplantation
ABOUT US
OUR MISSION
To consistently provide our clients with the highest quality in processing samples for long term cryopreservation in our state-of-the-art processing laboratory and storage facility in order to ensure cryopreserved stem cells constantly meet current regulatory requirements and international accreditation standards for safe, secure, effective and prompt retrieval of cellular therapy products when needed for clinical use.
OUR VISION
To be the global address of families interested in cryopreserving cellular therapy products of unmatched quality through consistency in producing the highest viable yield of processed stem cells for potential clinical use. To be actively helping various ethnic groups nationally and globally by facilitating access to our unmatched quality services in cryopreservation of cellular therapy products.
Our Lab
At Progenics, we use the unique, modified double stem cell extraction processing technique developed by Progenics' Research & Development team. This technique allows us to obtain a significantly higher rate of TNC recovery.
Our fire-resistant storage facility is equipped with backup generators, in the event of a power failure. In addition, the storage facility and the temperature inside the freezers are monitored 24 hours daily by security, video surveillance and environmental monitoring and alarm systems. In case of emergencies, backup liquid nitrogen freezers are available at our storage facility which can be used immediately to transfer the contents of a dysfunctional freezer.
We use Pall cord blood collection bags which have completed an extensive sterilization process (internally and externally). It is made safe and convenient for cord blood collection for vaginal births and cesarean sections. The bag is FDA and NDA approved and CE marked under the Medical Devices Directive for the collection of cord blood.
At Progenics, we use Pall freezing bags which have two compartments. The cord blood stem cells can either be used for up to two transplants, or one compartment can be used for expansion, and the other for a direct transplant.
Our Leadership Team
Linda Zhang, MBA
CFOLinda Zhang, M.B.A., CFO, is the business visionary of Progenics. In her role as CFO, Linda oversees the long-term strategy, growth, and digital transformation of the company. She earned her Master's degree from Ivey Business School, Western University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from York University, Canada. With a decade of corporate experience and as an angel investor, Linda specializes in change management and transformation. Her professional and investment portfolio includes multinational and billion-dollar companies, as well as rapid-growth startups, contributing to the success of Canada's largest satellite firm and an AI startup, achieving a revenue increase of close to $60 million a year. Linda has worked in senior management, advisory, and management consultant roles in publicly traded companies, healthcare firms, and hospitals and universities involved in Research and Development. Passionate about health, mental well-being, and community impact since high school, Linda is dedicated to senior care, women, and youth empowerment. She founded the Canadian Youth Champions (CYC) and mentors young leaders every Saturday, contributing to the growth of a network of 100,000 youth, seniors, and families across the GTA. Linda is a recipient of The Queen’s Platinum Medal awarded by the Government of Canada.
Dr. Sarah Morgan
Cord Blood Bank DirectorDr. Sarah Morgan, MD, MSc, PhD, FRCPC has just assumed the role of Cord Blood Bank Director at Progenics. She is a licensed pathologist in both Canada and the United States and currently practices as a Pathologist at Markham Stouffville Hospital, Oak Valley Health, where her work includes placental and umbilical cord tissue pathology of high-risk pregnancies. She is also spearheading the foundation of a new flow cytometry unit at the pathology department of her hospital. Dr. Morgan brings extensive expertise in anatomical pathology and hematopathology, with a particular focus on cord blood and tissue. Dr. Morgan completed her fellowship in Hematological Pathology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and her residency in Anatomical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology at the University of Toronto. She also obtained a PhD degree in Clinical Pathology from Cairo University and currently holds the role of Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto, where she oversees laboratory research and development at Markham Stouffville Hospital, positioning her at the cutting edge of regenerative medicine advancements.
Dr. Nicholas Pairaudeau
Medical Director Dr. Nicholas Pairaudeau, MD, BS, FRCSC, serves as the Medical Director at Progenics. With 47 years of experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology at North York General Hospital, he is widely respected for his expertise and compassionate approach to patient care. Dr. Pairaudeau earned his medical degree from King's College, United Kingdom, followed by specialized training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Toronto. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for his dedication to women's and infants' health.
Dr. Pairaudeau first joined Progenics as Medical Director in 2016. After taking a year off for family care, he rejoined us in in May, bringing renewed passion, dedication, and commitment to the team. At Progenics, he plays an essential role in overseeing safe, progressive practices for families considering stem cell and cord blood banking, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to advancing this important field.
Alla Pidgorna
Laboratory ManagerAlla is the Laboratory Manager at Progenics Cord Blood Cryobank, contributing to the development and implementation of the processes and operational protocols since the company’s establishment in 2005. With 19 years of experience at Progenics, Alla is certified by the Medical Laboratory Professionals Association of Ontario (MLPAO). She excels in problem-solving and effectively leads her team to ensure smooth operations within the lab. Alla has extensive skills in specimen processing, cryopreservation, and equipment maintenance, consistently meeting AABB, FACT, and Health Canada regulations. In 2013, she completed the Flow Cytometry certified program organized by Beckman Coulter in Miami, USA. In her free time, Alla enjoys outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, camping and swimming.
Tony Ho
Cryobank Storage ManagerTony started with Progenics in 2011 as a sales associate. His passion and dedication to the team lead him to pursue further studies in cryogenic storage with completion of the "MVE Cryobiological Certified Program" organized by BioMedical Group CHART Inc in Atlanta USA in 2014. After which he took on the role as Cryopreservation Storage Facility manager, where he has maintained a perfect track record for our storage facilities. He ensures that the facilites are monitored 24/7 and samples are maintained at cyrogenic temperatures in accordance with AABB, FACT and Health Canada standards. His favorite hobbies include sodoku and badminton.
Jennifer Duncan
Clinical ConsultantJennifer Duncan, RN, is the Clinical Consultant at Progenics, bringing over 15 years of experience as a delivery and labor nurse. As a registered nurse, she has a deep understanding of maternal care, which she combines with her part-time work alongside obstetricians. In addition to her clinical roles, Jennifer is also a dedicated prenatal instructor, sharing her expertise and passion for maternal health with expectant families. At Progenics, she is instrumental in guiding families through the cord blood banking process, providing them with knowledgeable support and compassionate care at every stage.
Laboratory Personnel
Rowena Buccat
Processing TechnologistRowena is one of the Laboratory Technicians at Progenics Cord Blood Cryobank. Rowena earned her Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from Adamson University, Philippines along with her Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technician from Anderson College of Health, Business and Technology. In addition, she is also certified by the Medical Laboratory Professionals Association of Ontario (MLPAO). With twelve years of experience at Progenics, she transcends in preservation of cord blood and cord tissue handling. She also carries vast knowledge in laboratory safety procedures and ensures to execute her skills and expertise when training new employees. Rowena enjoys experimenting with different kinds of cuisines, travelling with her family, and watching concerts.
John Francisco
Processing TechnologistJohn Mark is a laboratory processing technologist at Progenics this year, 2024. He is from the Philippines, and he speaks Filipino and English. He studied Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology at General Santos Doctor's Medical School, Philippines, and he holds a Biotechnology diploma from Centennial College, Canada. John Mark immerses himself in the world of stem cells, cord blood, and cord tissue research. His hobbies also include music, playing instruments, badminton, table tennis, basketball, video games, eating, and exercising.
Pamela Cajuday
Processing TechnologistPamela was born and raised in the Philippines. A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She has earned a long year of experience in Pediatric and Oncology Nursing in Philippines and in Singapore. She joined Progenics in 2019 and holds a diploma in MLA/T from Anderson College and certified by the Medical Laboratory Professionals Association of Ontario (MLPAO). She is very passionate about stem cell and regenerative medicine. Pamela finds joy in listening to BTS music, loves needle work art and collecting vintage items. She always considers nature as the great healer.
Prerna Mistry
Quality Assurance and R&D ManagerPrerna is one of the best QA in the planet, ensuring the highest standards of quality control and research development at Progenics.
Client Care Team
Shima Shadkhoo
Client Care ManagerShima, a Persian biomaterial engineer with a Master's degree, brings 14 years of expertise in biomedical and biomaterials, predominantly in customer service. Fluent in Farsi and English, she specializes in assisting Persian clients while catering to diverse nationalities. Balancing her professional pursuits, Shima finds fulfillment in motherhood, cherishing family time with her son, and nurturing her love for travel.
Jessica Zhang
Client Care ManagerAs a valued Client Care Associate at Progenics since 2022, Jessica adeptly handles client interactions with finesse and proficiency. Growing up in China and Canada, Jessica is fluent in both Mandarin and English, enabling seamless communication across diverse demographics. Holding a Master of Education in Leadership and Administration from Brock University, Jessica possesses a strong foundation in management principles and administrative acumen. Leveraging her exceptional client care skills, Jessica navigates complexities with poise and efficiency, embodying Progenics' commitment to unparalleled service delivery.
Our Clinic
Progenics is committed to meeting your needs. We offer several flexible payment plans to ensure that cord blood & cord tissue banking is affordable for everyone. Our staff members speak English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, Ukrainian, Farsi, Hebrew, and Tagalog.
Progenics is also partnered with various companies offering our clients exclusive discounts. This includes prenatal education and services, as well as those interested in health and longevity.