Wow! It’s hard to believe that nearly a year has passed since I first took on the role of President & CEO of Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation.
And what a year it’s been!
As I reflect on the last 12 months, two words immediately come to mind: passion and pride.
Wearing my new hat, I’ve had the chance to see and hear things in a new way. I feel so fortunate to have had this opportunity. What I have always known, but is now clearer to me than ever, is just how passionate our community is about ensuring we have excellent healthcare available right here in Burlington.
Every gift we receive from our donors, every hour given by our volunteers, and every member of our care team that I am privileged to interact with shares a common thread – they demonstrate steadfast dedication to helping one another. I feel honoured to see this firsthand every day and to have the opportunity to get to know so many incredible people who are deeply passionate about helping our hospital be its very best.
I’ve also been able to chat with so many members of our community, and it’s been heartwarming and inspiring to hear the many, many stories of how our hospital has changed their lives.
From the beauty of the birth of a baby to a scary touch-and-go night spent in the Emergency Department, and to the hopeful ring of a bell to celebrate the end of cancer treatment to the gentle and dignified goodbye to a beloved parent, our hospital is here through it all. Each story I hear is different, but each story is told with a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the incredible physicians, nurses, and care teams who are here, day in and day out when our community needs them the most.
I always knew that our hospital was a special place, filled with special people who have the resources they need thanks in large part to the special community that supports healthcare close to home. My first year as President & CEO of JBHF has cemented this belief.
I feel more fortunate than ever to lead our outstanding Foundation team, working with our incredible Board and Hospital partner. I am inspired, energized and deeply resolved to reach new heights in our ability to inspire the passion and pride of our great community to advance healthcare in new and innovative ways. In many ways, it feels like we’re just getting started, and I could not be more excited for what’s to come.