William spoke on the significance of legacy giving, emphasizing how planned gifts through insurance policies and wills can profoundly impact healthcare. As a key supporter of the Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) Foundation, William underscored how these contributions are vital in providing funding for crucial aspects of patient care that extend beyond what is covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
"OHIP covers doctor billing, but much of the essential equipment, research, and staff training is made possible through fundraising efforts," William explained. "This is where the HHS Foundation plays a critical role."
The Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation is the fundraising arm that supports 11 specialized sites, including the Hamilton General Hospital (HGH), the Burn Centre, and the cardiac specialists at St. Peter’s Hospital. Other sites benefiting from these efforts include McMaster University Medical Centre, Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre, and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre.
Serving a population of 2.3 million, the HHS network reaches from Niagara to Halton, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Brantford. "Our reach is vast, and so is our impact," William noted. "We rely on the generosity of over 3,000 donors, the dedication of more than 500 volunteers, and the collaboration of 200-plus partners to ensure we meet the healthcare needs of our region."
The numbers speak volumes about the Foundation's impact, with over 18,000 unique patient visits from the Halton region alone, highlighting the extensive reliance on HHS services.
"Legacy gifts are a way to ensure that this vital work continues for generations to come," William concluded. "By including HHS in your estate plans, you contribute to a legacy of excellence in healthcare that touches countless lives every day."
Kathy Thomas, a passionate advocate for Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS), has dedicated herself to raising awareness about the importance of healthcare and the pivotal role HHS plays in the community. A long-time supporter, Kathy joined the HHS Board of Directors in 2014 and served as Chair from 2020 to 2022, leading with a deep commitment to ensuring that HHS remains a cornerstone of healthcare for the region.
For Kathy, the significance of HHS extends beyond Hamilton. Though her family resides in Burlington, they have frequently turned to Hamilton hospitals in times of need. "We often take our healthcare system for granted until we need it," Kathy reflects. "We are blessed that HHS serves not just Hamilton but the wider community, including Burlington and beyond."
Serving on the Board has given Kathy a profound understanding of the community's needs and the tremendous impact that support—whether through government funding or community philanthropy—can have. "There is an enormous need for community support," she says. "Not everything is covered by the government, and the impact on families, like mine, is significant. From advanced training to state-of-the-art equipment, the support we provide makes a difference every day. There are so many incredible stories of care and recovery happening at HHS."
One of the most significant projects currently on the horizon is the planned renovation of Juravinski Hospital, located next to the world-renowned Juravinski Cancer Centre. This initiative is a testament to the ongoing commitment to providing exceptional care, and Kathy encourages everyone to get involved. [Video link]
In addition to her advocacy, Kathy emphasizes the importance of shared philanthropy, particularly through charitable giving in wills. "Including even a small portion of your estate in your will can make a lasting impact," she advises. "While many of us focus on taking care of our families, we also have the opportunity to help causes that matter to us. A charitable gift—whether 5% or more—is often larger than what we might be able to give during our lifetime."
Kathy's message is clear: our healthcare system is something we all rely on, and by planning ahead, we can ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.
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