Why are you Rallying?

I’m excited to Co-Chair the 2020 Rally for North York General. As a member of the North York community, and having used the services at North York General Hospital, I am truly grateful for the incredible care I received and it is my honour to volunteer for the Rally as a way of giving back. This year will look a lot different than last year’s Rally, but we are determined to continue the success of the event and raise urgently needed funds for our hospital during this especially challenging time. So come join me, Walk, Run or Ride! Let’s Rally for our North York General Hospital!

As a doctor at North York General, I have felt the impact of community donations first-hand. That’s why it was an easy decision to get involved with Rally in the Ravine, both as a volunteer and a participant. Last year, it was great to see so many people contribute to Rally in the Ravine and step up to support North York General — it takes a lot of audacity and heart. I am extremely proud of this hospital and this community.

I am excited to be one of the Co-Chairs of Rally in the Ravine 2019. Last year’s event was incredible. We are extremely lucky that our community is so supportive of the work we do every day at the hospital. This year, you will have the option to donate specifically to the Paediatric Centre Redevelopment fund, which will help us complete the fundraising to make our new space a reality in 2020. So wherever you Rally, run or walk with family, friends and co-workers to support our hospital!

I have been a volunteer, supporting North York General in a variety of capacities for 16 years. I’ve always taken it upon myself to promote this hospital as a cause worthy of philanthropic support. That’s why it’s so important to continue inspiring excitement from our community. Rally re-invigorated my enthusiasm for this great hospital we call ours — I hope it does the same for every member of this community.

I always wanted to contribute to my own community, but was never quite sure how. Both my sister and I were born at North York General, so supporting this amazing hospital just felt right. And with my passion for running, sports and all things outdoors, a 5K run couldn’t have been more perfect. It doesn’t matter how old you are. Anyone can contribute to your community and to your community hospital. It takes just a little bit of effort to make a big impact — anyone can make a difference.

I have a long history with this hospital. My mom worked on the switchboard back in the 70s. That’s how she found our awesome family doctor that we had for over 40 years, the late Dr. Edward Attersley. Two of my three nieces were born there. I had both my knees replaced there, and my dad had his knees and one of his hips replaced. Also, my parents both received awesome care from all the staff in their last days of life.
It’s a wonderful hospital, and I’ll support it all I can.

In 2018, I participated in Rally and enthusiastically fundraised for a community event in support of North York General. I felt proud to approach my circle of family and friends and ask them to sponsor my 5K run because I knew that the dollars raised would directly enhance the care we provide. In my role, I see firsthand the impact that donations have on patient care.

I have been an NYGH staff member for over 40 years. The hospital and its staff have looked after hundreds of my patients and three generations of my family. I had surgery at NYGH and experienced firsthand the superb, compassionate care delivered by their staff. I am proud and fortunate to be supporting NYGH.