Wickenheiser, a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, began an appeal to collect and transport PPE to frontline emergency medical workers across Canada earlier this month. 

With help from Canadian-American film actor and producer Ryan Reynolds, she set up a regular opportunity for the public to donate equipment, or cash, in a safe and socially-distanced location in Toronto.

It will continue to run every Saturday in the same spot for as long as supplies are needed.

Among those dropping by was the Ontario Premier, Doug Ford, who was full of praise for the efforts of the volunteers and the response of the public.

Wickenheiser has now challenged Bay Street, Canada's equivalent to Wall Street that is home to several major banks and members of the financial industry, to join the appeal. 

"I am asking all of you, Bay Street and corporate Canada, to step up to the plate and help us get more PPE suppliers so we can distribute all across Canada," she said.

The 41-year-old retired as an athlete in 2017 to pursue a medical career. 

She is now in her final year at the University of Calgary medical school and has been working in emergency rooms in Toronto as part of her training.

Subsequently, Wickenheiser witnessed a number of coronavirus cases firsthand. 

This provoked her to criticise the International Olympic Committee (IOC) last month, branding the governing body "irresponsible" over its handling of the process to postpone the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

Wickenheiser revealed to insidethegames that she was chastised immediately by the IOC for her comments.

For the full interview with Wickenheiser, go to the Big Read.