Jack Rowberry’s life has been dramatically impacted by the QEII Health Sciences Centre.
Originally published by the Chronicle Herald.
How your year-end contributions transform health care and save lives
In the season of giving, the spirit of generosity takes on a profound meaning for the QEII Foundation where community supporters are instrumental in funding everyday health-care miracles.
As 2023 draws to a close, the opportunity to contribute and make a difference remains open.
“Donations of all sizes make a difference at the QEII Health Sciences Centre and directly impact patient care,” says Susan Mullin, President & CEO of the QEII Foundation.
“A gift this season is an opportunity to invest in a piece of the health-care system,” she says, emphasizing how these funds spark advancements in medical technology and research, leading to healing and innovation.
Your Year-End Gift’s Transformative Power
“Every day, donors play a critical role in supporting patient impact, recruitment, innovative technology, and research,” Susan underscores, highlighting that no matter how someone chooses to support health care, their gift will make a difference.
Funds raised in 2023 have been instrumental in supporting various care areas across the QEII, from cancer care to mental health initiatives that have made treatments more accessible to patients.
“We are incredibly grateful for the powerful role donors play in transforming health care and making a difference in the lives of patients and families who depend on the QEII,” says Susan.
A Tale of Hope and Gratitude
Jack Rowberry is a prostate cancer survivor whose life has been dramatically impacted by the QEII Health Sciences Centre. Having undergone a life-changing prostatectomy performed by the QEII’s Dr. David Bell, Jack knows first-hand how donor support makes a difference to patients during tough times.
“The support was unbelievable, Dr. (David) Bell was great, the hospital and care teams were magnificent – I'm very grateful,” says Jack.
And the support continues.
Jack underwent a successful open-heart surgery in 2020 and is currently making positive strides in a recent battle against lung cancer through immunotherapy. At 77, his life in Chester remains vibrant and optimistic, thanks in part to the convenience of receiving treatments close to home at South Shore Regional Hospital, under the careful guidance of his QEII oncologist, Dr. Wojciech Morzycki.
Inspired by his journey and immense gratitude, Jack and his wife, Jane, decided to contribute a charitable gift in their will to the QEII Foundation, ensuring future generations have access to advanced health care.
“Jane and I decided a few years ago that we were going to pledge most of our legacy to various medical areas,” says Jack, acknowledging their commitment to organizations, like the QEII Foundation, that are meaningful to the Chester couple.
It’s one of many ways they’re giving back to their community and are hopeful it will inspire others to do the same – ultimately supporting care at Atlantic Canada’s largest and most specialized adult hospital.
Jack’s experiences with critical surgeries and ongoing treatment echo the core mission of the QEII Foundation – to change lives through advancements in technology, medical research, and education, aided by community support.
Giving and Receiving with Tax-Smart Gifting
Community support is where everyone can play a part.
By making a gift to the QEII Foundation this season, contributors can take pride in not only investing in future health-care services but also enjoying the immediate benefits of their actions. Donations made by December 31 qualify for 2023 charitable tax receipts, offering a practical advantage to giving.
As the QEII Foundation looks to the future with important projects on the horizon, including funding for nuclear medicine scanners and fostering frontline innovation in health care, community support is critical.
“We can’t do it without donors,” says Susan, emphasizing the value of every contribution, big or small. “Every gift matters.”
Donating is easy. Individuals can contribute to the QEII Foundation online, by phone, or in person at the QEII Foundation’s office (5657 Spring Garden Rd., suite 3005) during business hours.
The Gift of Care
Meanwhile, as another year comes full circle, QEII Foundation donors are a powerful pillar of community support in transforming health care with each donation contributing to a legacy of hope, recovery, and exceptional care — a gift crafted by the generosity of individuals.
When you support health care at the QEII by December 31, you will receive your 2023 charitable tax receipt. To learn more or donate, visit QE2Foundation.ca
