Our Stories
Inspirational SickKids stories.
Our Donors
2008 Donor Spotlight Archive
For the week of December 29, 2008
GMP Securities Ltd.
Since 1996, GMP Securities Ltd. has generously supported SickKids through the purchase of equipment and through the Unforgettable Fund, which helps families with funeral costs. Over the past few years, families at the hospital have been treated to a holiday meal on Christmas Day, donated by GMP Securities. Its staff is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and making it a priority to give these children the same opportunities available to children outside of the hospital.
For the week of December 22, 2008
CIBC World Markets
SickKids is at the forefront of children's health-care in Canada and around the world. It would not be possible without the ongoing support from friends like CIBC World Markets, who have been so generous over the years. SickKids Foundation truly appreciates all that CIBC does to help the patients and families SickKids serves.
For the week of December 15, 2008
Ferrari Maserati
This year marked the 10-year anniversary of giving by Ferrari Maserati of Ontario to SickKids Foundation through its annual car rally. To commemorate this special milestone, Ferrari reaffirmed its commitment to SickKids by making a transformational gift of $1 million to the Operating Suites Redevelopment Project. Ferrari Maserati of Ontario continues to drive children's dreams with its incredible commitment to advancing children's health.
TD Bank Financial Group
Since 1994, TD Bank Financial Group has generously supported SickKids through its partnership with Children's Miracle Network. TD Bank Financial Group and its employees raise funds to support children's health through grassroots activities such as golf tournaments and silent auctions, the automatic monthly donation campaign in December and a corporate match program. Since becoming involved with SickKids, TD Bank Financial Group has given more than $10 million to SickKids Foundation. Thank you TD Bank Financial Group for the commitment and dedication to helping SickKids provide the best care possible to our patients and families.
For the week of December 8, 2008
International Clothiers
Each December, International Clothiers runs an in-store promotion in support of the primary immunodeficiency program at SickKids. Through the sale of $1 gift boxes at stores like Fairweather and Randy River, The International Clothiers Group of Companies has generously supported SickKids since 2002.
Toys "R" Us
Since 1998, Toys "R" Us has supported SickKids Foundation though its springtime paper icon campaign as a partner of Children's Miracle Network. In 2007, more than $160,000 was raised for the hospital's highest priority needs by 20 Toys "R" Us stores across the greater Toronto community. Since becoming a Children's Miracle Network sponsor, Toys "R" Us has donated more than $750,000 to SickKids Foundation. Thank you Toys "R" Us associates for your passion and enthusiasm for helping kids in Toronto and across the country.
For the week of December 1, 2008
Herbie Fund
Herbie Fund is a volunteer-based group that believes no child should be denied medical care based on race, religion, geography or financial status. For almost 30 years, support from the Herbie Fund has been used to provide lifesaving and life-altering surgeries for hundreds of children throughout the world at The Hospital for Sick Children. Last year alone, the Herbie Fund raised more than $700,000. To date, more than 600 children from 88 countries have received specialized medical and surgical assistance that would otherwise not be available to them.
For the week of November 24, 2008
The Co-operators
The Co-operators, a vivid advocate for many safety programs in the community, is also a proud supporter of SickKids Foundation. It supports the highest priority needs of the hospital to help ensure The Hospital for Sick Children can purchase the most necessary items to remain a world-leading child health research, education and care and meet the health-care needs of today's children.
Marriott Hotels & Resorts Canada
For more than 25 years, Marriott Hotels & Resorts of Canada has been a proud sponsor of Children's Miracle Network and SickKids Foundation. Enthusiastic Marriott associates participate in the Marriott Pride program and organize several successful events throughout the year to help children in their community and around the world. Through these various initiatives, Marriott properties have raised more than $600,000 for SickKids since becoming a Children's Miracle Network sponsor. Thank you Marriott for the incredible support!
For the week of November 17, 2008
Swiss Chalet
As a partner of Children's Miracle Network since 2003, Swiss Chalet has been committed to helping kids from across the country. On Thursday, November 20, Swiss Chalet restaurants will host its signature event, Miracle Kids Day. On this day, $1 will be donated to SickKids Foundation for every Festive Special Dinner or Quarter Chicken Dinner sold in the South-Central Ontario region. A big thank you to Swiss Chalet associates and customers for their continued support of SickKids and Children's Miracle Network.
Transamerica Life Canada
In 2008, the charitable giving program of Transamerica Life Canada, in the spirit of hope, made a commitment to buy new equipment for the Cardiology Department at SickKids. The investment in a DynaCT, imaging technology, for the Cardiac Diagnostic & Interventional Unit will help improve the lives of children with congenital heart defects and ensure the hospital has the resources to continue providing the very best care to its patients. Transamerica Life Canada believes that sharing prosperity greatly enriches the communities in which its employees live and work. SickKids gratefully recognizes the valuable contribution Transamerica Life Canada has made to SickKids.
For the week of November 10, 2008
Lombard Canada Limited
Last year, Lombard Canada Limited employees ran their first fundraising campaign for SickKids Foundation. More than $50,000 was raised for the hospital's highest priority needs through payroll deduction, online giving, innovative engagement activities and a matching corporate gift. Now an annual campaign, this event builds on the company's long-time support of SickKids Foundation, which includes the establishment of the hospital's first endowed academic chair, the Lombard Insurance Chair in Paediatric Research, currently held by Dr. Janet Rossant.
Smiles of Innocence
In 1998, John and Anna Povegliano founded Smiles of Innocence in memory of their son Daniel who died of a rare dermatological disease. Each year, Anna and John, along with a group of dedicated volunteers, host a spectacular gala dinner for 1,200 guests in support of SickKids Foundation. In addition to the gala, many supporters of Smiles host "fourth party" events to support the fund. Since its inception, more than $2 million has been directed to the Foundation, including $225,000 last year. The money raised by Smiles of Innocence has supported important research, capital equipment and a fellowship in dermatology at SickKids. Thank you, Smiles.
For the week of November 3, 2008
Canadian Tire
The Women's Auxiliary at SickKids had a vision to improve the Play Park and in 2001, Canadian Tire generously provided the funding to make this dream come true. The Canadian Tire Play Park, located on Main Street in the hospital, is a wonderful resource and safe haven for patients and their siblings. In 2007, Canadian Tire renewed its sponsorship for another five years and continues to be a valued partner to SickKids Foundation.
"This resource is critical for so many families. More than 7,000 children visit each year. We are tremendously grateful for Canadian Tire's support," says Nancy Leppik, president, Women's Auxiliary.
The James Fund
In 2001, the Birrell family started The James Fund to raise money for research to help save seven-year-old James Birrell from neuroblastoma, a deadly childhood cancer. Although their efforts came too late for James, the fund bearing his name has raised $2.7 million for neuroblastoma research at SickKids and has become an umbrella for the community of neuroblastoma families across the country. The James Fund has catalyzed neuroblastoma research in Canada, transforming the way SickKids does research, allowing researchers to translate their findings from the lab to the care of patients.
In memory of little James, who inspired so many, and in recognition of the contribution of the Birrell family to the fight against neuroblastoma, SickKids named the James Birrell Laboratories, which will house projects, personnel and equipment for neuroblastoma research at SickKids. James said, "I will always be fighting cancer," and his legacy lives on at SickKids.
For the week of October 27, 2008
FedEx
Pedestrian injuries are the leading cause of injury and death for children ages five to nine years old. Since 2001, FedEx Canada has supported Safe Kids Canada's pedestrian safety program, "Making it Happen". The program includes community resources to build awareness and a grants program that enables organizations across Canada to address pedestrian safety issues in their communities. As the world's largest express transportation company, FedEx places a high value on corporate responsibility and is committed to safety both in the workplace and in the communities in which it operates.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Safe Kids Canada.
The Toronto and Area Road Builders Association
The Toronto and Area Road Builders Association (TARBA) is helping to build roads to better health for children of Ontario and beyond. Recently, the association, representing the business interests of unionized road builders in the Greater Toronto Area, pledged $150,000 to support SickKids Operating Suites Redevelopment Project. The facility will be home to new state-of-the-art operating suites, a redesigned surgical day care unit and satellite, as well as a pre-operative clinic. The enhancements will dramatically improve SickKids ability to provide care to thousands of children and their families.
For the week of October 20, 2008
Blockbuster Canada
Blockbuster Canada has been a proud sponsor of Children's Miracle Network since 1998. In 2007, it generously contributed more than $225,000 to SickKids Foundation. Blockbuster employees, customers and vendors support SickKids by participating in various paper icon campaigns throughout the year and contribute to the annual Blockbuster Invitational Golf Tournament. Creative, passionate and energetic, Blockbuster is a strong supporter of SickKids through its partnership with the Children's Miracle Network. Thank you Blockbuster for believing in SickKids!
Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada
The Motherisk program at SickKids is thankful to the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada (CEP) for its generous support of "Safe Start." This new Motherisk program is aimed at identifying the reproductive risks faced by women and men in the workplace. The research currently taking place is the first step in developing important new knowledge to ensure healthier workplaces for all Canadians. Ultimately, the goal is a "safe start" for every family.
For the week of October 13, 2008
CN
Safe Crossing Week begins October 20. Launched in 2005 by Safe Kids Canada and CN, the program raises awareness of safety at highway-railway crossings and encourages teachers, parents and caregivers to teach elementary school children how to cross railway tracks safely. CN Police promote rail safety to more than 300,000 children and adults annually through its "All Aboard for Safety" program.
Safety is one of CN's guiding principles and we thank CN and its employees for their ongoing commitment to Safe Kids Canada and helping to keep our children safe.
For the week of October 6, 2008
Costco Wholesale
Costco Wholesale is a tremendous supporter of SickKids Foundation through the Children's Miracle Network. By inspiring staff, engaging members and encouraging vendors to participate in the Miracle Month of May, Costco raises awareness and funds in support of the hospital's highest priority needs.
Not only does Costco sell paper icons to its members at point-of-sale to fundraise, but many warehouses also encourage each department to host an event such as a staff barbeque, a book drive, or a walk-a-thon to raise further support. Thank you Costco Wholesale for supporting the Children's Miracle Network and SickKids!
GE Healthcare
GE Healthcare's continued support of diagnostic imaging education provides important support to front-line staff engaged in patient care. "We are very grateful for GE Healthcare's support of our education and research endeavours," says Dr. Paul Babyn, Radiologist-in-Chief. Committed to education and youth, as well as health care, GE Healthcare grants millions of dollars each year in the communities where they do business and their employees call home.
For the week of September 29, 2008
Deloitte
Deloitte, one of Canada's leading professional services firms, is a proud and longtime supporter of SickKids. Through corporate giving, partners who volunteer and give through the Foundation's SickKids Leaders program, and board membership Deloitte is involved in many areas of the hospital and Foundation. Through innovative corporate giving and workplace volunteerism programs, Deloitte shows its leadership in the community here at SickKids and beyond.
Air Canada Kids' Horizons
Since 1994, Air Canada Kids' Horizons has been a proud supporter of SickKids Foundation through the Children's Miracle Network. Through its Hospital Transportation Program, Air Canada Kids' Horizons provides flights for SickKids patients and families to get the specialized medical care they need that is not available within their communities. Pilots from Air Canada give back through Wings of Courage, a program where pilots come to SickKids once a month to read to patients and siblings in the Reading Room. Air Canada also generously supports SickKids Foundation by providing air travel passes for fundraising purposes. Thank you Air Canada for believing in SickKids!
For the week of September 22, 2008
Browns Shoes
Browns Shoes is one of Canada's principal sources for the latest in shoes and accessories. As a leader in the fashion industry, Browns understands the importance of giving back to the community through philanthropy. In 2006, Browns launched a unique fundraising event, Fashion Dance Spectacle, to benefit The Philip Witchel Endowment Fund at SickKids Foundation. Now in its 3rd year, this one-of-a-kind event raised more than $70,000 last year.
The Slaight family
Gary Slaight and the Slaight family have been valuable partners to The Hospital for Sick Children and SickKids Foundation for more than three decades. Through their personal philanthropic commitments and for many years through the Annual SickKids Radiothon, they have contributed to the hospital's highest priority needs including medical research, the Medical Information Centre (Health Hotline), Paediatric Outcomes Research (PORT) and the Cardiac Diagnostic Imaging Centre.
With more than $25 million raised, in March 2008, the Slaight family was honoured for their commitment to SickKids with the renaming of the Atrium at SickKids to The Slaight Family Atrium.
For the week of September 15, 2008
GlaxoSmithKline
GlaxoSmithKline has been a generous supporter of SickKids for nearly two decades. Its mission is to improve the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. In 2004, The GlaxoSmithKline Chair in Genetics and Genomics was formally established at SickKids with a commitment of $2 million. This endowed fund will support the research activities of the chair holders and help the SickKids Research Institute continue its groundbreaking work in unravelling the mysteries of the human genome.
RE/MAX
For more than 15 years, RE/MAX real estate professionals have passionately supported SickKids through its partnership with the Children's Miracle Network. Sales representatives participate in the RE/MAX Miracle Home Program where they voluntarily make a donation to SickKids for every home they sell. Many offices throughout the RE/MAX network go above and beyond to support SickKids, hosting events such as golf tournaments, talent show nights and barbeques. Thank you RE/MAX for believing in SickKids!
For the week of September 8, 2008
The Brewers Association of Canada
The Brewers Association of Canada (BAC) supports the Motherisk Alcohol and Substance Use Helpline, which is the only national, toll-free service to provide telephone counselling to women on the effects of alcohol and other substances during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Launched with BAC support in November 1997 to help in the prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, this specialized Motherisk helpline provides evidence-based information, confidential counselling and referrals to treatment and support services nationwide. The BAC has also contributed to the launch of the Canadian Foundation on Fetal Alcohol Research, it supports the Canadian Centre for Substance Abuse (CCSA) FASD Resource Centre, and it is a key sponsor of the annual FACE Research Roundtable. Thank you, Brewers for your commitment and generous support.
Empire Communities
Empire Communities cares passionately about giving back to the community. In support of its abiding commitment to build exceptional homes and communities, and coinciding with the introduction of its newest neighbourhood, Fly Condos, the company has made a $150,000 commitment to support The Hospital for Sick Children. Joined by others in the residential building and development industry, this significant donation will assist with the redevelopment of SickKids operating suites. The redevelopment project addresses the pressing need for improved space, as well as minimally invasive and new technology to meet the growing demand for the specialized surgical care only available at SickKids.
This leadership gift underscores the commitment Empire principals Daniel Guizzetti, Paul Golini Jr. and Andrew Guizzetti have to advance children's health care for families from across Ontario and beyond. Improving quality of life is a core value of their company and is inherent in their personal values. Since the early 1990s, Empire Communities has built a solid reputation for creating award-winning communities as unique as the people who choose to live in them.
For the week of August 25, 2008
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life
The Ethno-Cultural Knowledge Translation Program, created with generous support from Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, is helping Safe Kids Canada develop culturally-relevant injury prevention resources. These select resources will be accessible to Canada's diverse population to build capacity within communities to conduct programs and activities, which will increase knowledge and awareness of how to prevent injuries.
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life serve the financial security needs of more than 12 million people across Canada. Through their national program for corporate citizenship, the Key to Giving, the companies contribute directly to hundreds of non-profit and charitable organizations across the country. On behalf of Safe Kids Canada, SickKids Foundation thanks Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life for their continued generosity.
Solving Kids Cancer
Solving Kids Cancer is a hands-on and innovative charity. Its mission is to improve survivorship outcomes for the deadliest forms of childhood cancers to 75 per cent or greater by 2015 and extend the life of children with advanced stages of the disease. The charity focuses on cancers like neuroblastoma, central nervous system tumours and sarcomas. In 2008, Solving Kids Cancer made a $400,000 gift to support the neuroblastoma research being done by Drs. Kaplan and Baruchel at SickKids.
For the week of August 18, 2008
Mattamy Homes
For four years, Mattamy Homes has raised significant funds to support important programs at The Hospital for Sick Children through its unique cycling event, the Mattamy Homes Tour de Blue. Each year, approximately 35 cyclists embark on a 400-kilometre ride to raise money for SickKids.
In 2007, Mattamy Homes Tour de Blue made a landmark commitment to support groundbreaking research at SickKids through a $1 million endowment fund for the Advancement of Pain Management for Children. At SickKids, pain is a common, often complex and disabling condition affecting children. With the support of donations received through the Mattamy Homes Tour de Blue, SickKids helped create a dedicated pain management interdisciplinary team comprised of physiotherapists, nurses, psychologists and psychiatrists, who focus on helping children and families coping with chronic pain.
We are grateful for their tremendous support.
Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP/RAEO)
For the past 19 years, the Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP/RAEO) has given phenomenal support to SickKids Foundation through its Annual Charity Golf Classic. The funds raised by this event are directed to the Memories of a Gentle Presence Palliative and Bereavement Care Program at SickKids, a special bereavement program that provides an in-hospital support system for families and hospital staff dealing with the death of an infant. This month, as it prepares to celebrate its 19th annual tournament, it is expecting to surpass the $1 million dollar cumulative milestone. Congratulations, OTIP! We are deeply thankful for your support.
For the week of August 11, 2008
Dairy Queen
For 20 years, Dairy Queen® and its network of passionate franchisees have raised funds to support The Hospital for Sick Children through the Children's Miracle Network. In 2007, Dairy Queen® raised more than $250,000 for SickKids through its annual one-day national event, Miracle Treat Day, where proceeds from Blizzard® sales are donated to local children's hospitals. This year, Dairy Queen's® 6th Annual Miracle Treat Day took place on Thursday, August 7. Thanks to all those who bought a Blizzard® to help SickKids!
For the week of August 4, 2008
First Student Canada
First Student Canada, formerly Laidlaw Education Services, has generously supported SickKids since 1997 as a Children's Miracle Network sponsor. Not only does First Student think about getting millions of kids to and from school each day, but they care about the many others, who because of an illness or disability, cannot ride to school with their friends. First Student supports SickKids through various employee and branch initiatives - including the successful "Survivor Bus," which is a weekend event where First Student employees across Ontario live on a bus in a Wal-Mart parking lot for 48 hours to raise funds. First Student and its employees are truly committed and passionate about improving the health of children.
For the week of July 28, 2008
Care for Kids
Care for Kids is a longtime supporter and friend of SickKids Foundation. It has supported SickKids for the past 19 years through the Care for Kids Charity Golf Classic. This year is very special for Care for Kids as it marks its 20th anniversary as a community partner to SickKids Foundation. To date, it has raised more than $700,000 for local charities and is currently supporting b.r.a.i.n.child, a volunteer organization associated with SickKids that provides support, education and funding for brain tumour research. The Foundation is grateful to Care for Kids for its devotion to SickKids and we wish it continued success with its fundraising efforts.
For the week of July 21, 2008
Atrens-Counsel Insurance Brokers Ltd.
SickKids Foundation would like to thank Atrens-Counsel Insurance Brokers Ltd. for its long-standing dedication and support to the health and well-being of children. Atrens-Counsel Insurance Brokers Ltd. has been an exceptional supporter of the Foundation particularly through its annual "Straight from our Hearts" golf tournament that raises proceeds for cardiac research. On July 8, Atrens-Counsel held their 14th annual tournament, which has raised more than $1 million to date. Congratulations on your fundraising success. We truly appreciate the commitment Atrens-Counsel has made to SickKids.
Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation
Each year Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation provides support to The Hospital for Sick Children to fund many initiatives. This includes the Starlight Room and emergency room packages for newly admitted patients and their families, as well as generously donated toys and arts and crafts. Last year alone, Starlight provided 25 Fun Centres, which are mobile entertainment units that have a DVD player and the latest Nintendo game system, to help to bring fun and distraction to the patients at the hospital. Thank you to Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation for over a decade of generosity.
For the week of July 14, 2008
A&P
Through its Growing Great Kids program, A&P is dedicated to the growth, development, care and well-being of children. For the past five years, A&P has been a key partner of Safe Kids Canada, funding its outreach programs and core activities. A&P's support comes from all areas of the company through corporate gifts, employee donations, in-store fundraising and gifts-in-kind.
Thanks to the support of A&P, its employees and its customers, Safe Kids Canada is able to translate evidence-based research into best practices, reducing the number of children hurt and killed by preventable injuries. We applaud A&P for its dedication to the health and safety of our children.
BMO Financial Group
BMO Financial Group is a long-time supporter of SickKids Foundation. Dating back to the Foundation's first records, the BMO name can be found. This past March, BMO announced a $2 million gift to SickKids, which established the BMO Financial Group Chair in Cardiology. World-renowned SickKids clinician and researcher, Dr. Andrew Redington, was named the inaugural Chair holder. This Chair is endowed in perpetuity and will generate funds to allow further understanding of congenital heart disease and heart function for children today, and in the future.
For the week of July 7, 2008
Jessica's Footprint: A Walk in the Park
Wendy and Rob Durigon support brain tumour research at SickKids in hopes that researchers will find a cure for the disease that took the life of their one-year-old daughter, Jessica. The annual Jessica's Footprint: A Walk in the Park brings the Guelph community together to raise funds in Jessica's memory. With the help of a hardworking committee and great support from sponsors and participants, the walk has generated more than $335,000 in just two years. Wendy and Rob are excited about the possibility of surpassing the half-million-dollar mark with their walk on July 12 this year.
SickKids Foundation is truly grateful to the Durigon family for their continued commitment. We'd like to congratulate Wendy and Rob who were recently honoured with a World Charity Award at Wayne Gretzky's restaurant for their dedication to and support of SickKids.
The Longo's Family Charitable Foundation
On July 8, Longo's will host its 19th Annual "Fore Kids' Sake" Charity Golf Tournament. Over the past 18 years, The Longo's Family Charitable Foundation has generously funded key initiatives at SickKids to improve the health of children, including their continued support of a five-year commitment to the SickKids Priorities Fund and as a Platinum Lemon Sponsor of Jack's Lemonade Stand.
Thank you to The Longo's Family Charitable Foundation. We are truly grateful for the tremendous impact you're having on the lives of our young patients and their families.
For the week of June 30, 2008
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life
The Ethno-Cultural Knowledge Translation Program, created with generous support from Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, is helping Safe Kids Canada develop culturally-relevant injury prevention resources. These select resources will be accessible to Canada's diverse population to build capacity within communities to conduct programs and activities, which will increase knowledge and awareness of how to prevent injuries.
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life serve the financial security needs of more than 12 million people across Canada. Through their national program for corporate citizenship, the Key to Giving, the companies contribute directly to hundreds of non-profit and charitable organizations across the country. On behalf of Safe Kids Canada, SickKids Foundation thanks Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life for their continued generosity.
Scotiabank
As Canada's most international bank, Scotiabank felt a special affinity to children in need from developing countries, like Latin America and the Caribbean. In response to this need, Scotiabank pledged $1 million in support of the SickKids International Patient Program and currently sponsors two important events for Operation Herbie - the Mistletoe Ball, and Herbie Day.
"We are thrilled to have Scotiabank on board," says Kamla Sharma, director, SickKids International. "Their support enhances our ability to care for more children through direct patient care, education and outreach programs."
Scotiabank has a long history of supporting SickKids. In 1997, Scotiabank established the Scotiabank Clinician Scientist Training Fund, which is an endowment that continues to support clinician-scientist trainees in oncology in perpetuity.
For the week of June 23, 2008
Lilah's Fund
Lilah's Fund began in 2005 to raise money for neuroblastoma research at SickKids. Lilah Petersiel was born in April 2004 and was diagnosed with neuroblastoma on the first day of her life. Lilah underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Today, she is a happy and healthy four-year old!
Neuroblastoma is a cancer of the sympathetic nervous system that is diagnosed in approximately 25 children in Ontario each year. Through events such as Sunday in the Park with Lilah, Lilah's Fund has raised more than $300,000 since its inception. With these funds, Lilah's Fund supports innovative neuroblastoma research projects at SickKids, with a particular focus on drug testing initiatives.
For the week of June 16, 2008
LIUNA Local 183
In 2007, the members of Local 183 of the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA) chose to partner with SickKids Foundation and created the LIUNA Local 183 Innovative Research Endowment Fund. They made a tremendous commitment of donating $1 million. Over the past two years through their golf tournament, they have raised more than $475,000 for the fund. By partnering with SickKids Foundation, Local 183 is building a legacy of research and innovation for health care in Canada and the health of all our children.
For the week of June 09, 2008
RBC
This year marks the 21st anniversary of the relationship between the employees of RBC and SickKids Foundation. To date, they have generously donated more than $2.2 million to SickKids. In addition, RBC Foundation has also committed $2 million to further much-needed training, research and outreach for paediatric mental health at SickKids.
Each year, the RBC employee campaign concludes with a walk-a-thon that ends on the front lawn of the hospital. Please join us on June 11 at 6 p.m. to welcome the dedicated RBC walkers and cheer them on as they arrive.
We thank RBC for its long-standing relationship with SickKids Foundation.
Virox Technologies Inc.
Virox Technologies Inc. is the creator of Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide - a patented technology used to develop safer cleaners and disinfectants. Once again, for the third year in a row, Virox has agreed to sponsor the 4th Annual Partners in Paediatric Patient Safety Symposium featuring leading-edge topics related to patient safety and infection control.
"We are pleased to partner with a world-class organization like SickKids. At Virox, we believe that the environment is a critical component of patient safety, and as such we are proud to support this symposium in bringing together leaders in the field to share best practices and knowledge," says Randy Pilon, president and CEO, Virox Technologies Inc.
For the week of June 02, 2008
Citytv Herbie Day
Citytv has long been associated with the Herbie Fund at The Hospital for Sick Children. It is the largest corporate supporter of the annual Herbie Day and, thanks to Gord Martineau, has truly given a voice and face to the Herbie Fund. The Herbie Fund is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to bringing sick children from around the world to SickKids so they can receive life-saving medical treatment not available in their home country.
Since 1979, community support, along with the annual support generated from Citytv Herbie Day has allowed more than 600 children from approximately 88 countries to receive medical and surgical treatment through the fund. This would not be possible without the dedication, commitment and generosity of Citytv. Citytv also created a five-part series to highlight what has been made possible through the Herbie Fund. Ultimately this series strengthens our message that we have the power to make a difference in the lives of children, no matter where they live. Thank you Citytv for continuing to bring attention to a great cause.
Wal-Mart Canada
Wal-Mart Canada is passionate about making a difference in the health and well-being of children. In partnership with the Children’s Miracle Network, Wal-Mart associates, vendors and customers enthusiastically raise funds to support the 12 paediatric hospitals across the country, touching lives of 2.6 million children in Canada. Their many activities in this region to support SickKids includes selling paper icon balloons, BBQ’s, donating a percentage of sales of items from vendors such as Proctor & Gamble, and their largest event the Wal-Mart Walk for Miracles, held on Sunday June 8. Believing that helping children is the right thing to do, Wal-Mart and its passionate, energetic associates have shown incredible leadership in the community by donating more than $1.7 million to SickKids Foundation in 2007.
Walk with your family of friends on Sunday, June 8 for the 5th annual Wal-Mart Walk for Miracles in support of SickKids Foundation, through its partnership with Children’s Miracle Network. Starting at 8 a.m. enjoy a fun-filled day of activities and entertainment at Coronation Park (across from the Princess Gates) in Toronto. To show our SickKids united support for this event, visit www.walmartwalkformiracles.com and join or donate to the SickKids Striders team.
For the week of May 26, 2008
Honda Canada Foundation
In 2005, Honda Canada created the Honda Canada Foundation (HCF) to give back to the communities in which its customers and associates live, work and play. HCF is committed to enhancing the social well-being of Canadian communities through responsible investment in organizations that share our vision and values and focus on youth in our communities. HCF's goals are to help charitable organizations recognize and respond to the changing needs of our communities, and to invest in the people and charitable groups that make a difference. At the heart of its charitable focus, HCF values: education, environment, engineering and safety. HCF uses these areas as guiding principles in its charitable focus on the belief that a healthy understanding of each area will help both individuals and communities flourish.
The Honda Canada Foundation is pleased to partner with Safe Kids Canada as the secondary sponsor for Safe Kids Week 2008: Pedestrian Safety to reinforce our mutual commitments to safety and education.
Forest Hill Barber Shop
For the last twelve years, Forest Hill Barber Shop has held a fundraising golf tournament for SickKids in memory of Franco Smeriglio. To date it has raised more than $340,000 to support many areas of the hospital including juvenile diabetes, which the group is very passionate about. This year, it is continuing to support both juvenile diabetes and The Philip Witchel Children's Heart Failure Research Fellowship. Its success would not be possible without the support of dedicated clients, family and good friends. The continued commitment the event has seen from participants is a testament to the generous and great guys at the Forest Hill Barber Shop. SickKids Foundation would like to congratulate them on their past successes and thank them for their ongoing dedication.
For the week of May 19, 2008
Mito March For Kirkland
Funding for research in mitochondrial disease is rare because little is known about the genetic disorder. But with the help of the Kilbride family, important progress is being made. Although their son Kirkland lost his battle to mitochondrial disease in 2007, the Mito March For Kirkland will continue annually with the hope that funds raised will keep the momentum going.
To date the Mito March has generated more than $109,000 to support many exciting initiatives: SickKids scientists are experimenting with three potential drugs; work is being done to find the gene for one of the more prevalent mitochondrial diseases; more extensive tests can be run for difficult to diagnose cases; and the research team has purchased an important piece of genetic equipment. SickKids Foundation is truly grateful to the Kilbride family for continuing their efforts and raising awareness of this rare disease.
For the week of May 12, 2008
Meagan's Walk: Creating a Circle of Hope
Meagan's Walk: Creating a Circle of Hope began in 2001 and has raised more than $1.2 million in support of paediatric brain tumour research through its walk, gala, golf tournament and community fundraising.
Meagan's Walk was inspired by Meagan Bebenek who passed away from a brain stem glioma two weeks after her fifth birthday. Each year on Mother's Day the one-of-a-kind 5-kilometre walk starts at Ontario Place and ends with participants forming a human chain around The Hospital for Sick Children. The hug embraces all the children and the families within.
For the week of May 5, 2008
Duchesnay Inc.
A Canadian research-based pharmaceutical company, Duchesnay Inc. of Laval, Quebec, is dedicated to the development of effective pharmacological solutions that are safe for pregnant women and their babies. A generous supporter of Motherisk research and training for over a decade, Duchesnay's latest donation supports the Motherisk Disease Management and Surveillance Program. Duchesnay is also the corporate sponsor of the Motherisk national NVP Helpline, a toll-free service that helps women throughout North America understand and cope with morning sickness, and the Motherisk Update 2008 on reproductive mental health that is taking place on May 7.
For the week of April 28, 2008
Pizza Pizza
Pizza Pizza has supported SickKids Foundation for more than a decade and everyone knows when comfort food is required, our very own hospital location can't be beat.
Support in the past has helped the Nutrition and Food Services Department at SickKids and most recently helped launch MealTrain, an innovative new "room service" program that has increased positive patient feedback and reduced waste and costs.
Thank you Pizza Pizza!
Gala for Hope
In 2002, Fred Coppola wanted to create an event to give something back to the Toronto community and so, gathered together a committee of friends and family to plan the Gala for Hope, where he took on the role of chairperson.
With perseverance, dedication and generous community support, the Gala raised more than $60,000 for the Division of Haematology/Oncology at SickKids in its first year.
This month, as the event celebrates its 7th Annual Gala, the organizers are expecting to surpass the $1 million cumulative milestone.
Congratulations Gala for Hope! We are deeply thankful for your support.
For the week of April 21, 2008
Dufferin Concrete
Launching an innovative fundraising initiative, Dufferin Concrete has cemented its position as a leader in support of SickKids Foundation. Together with its partners and customers, Dufferin Concrete created a program to support SickKids highest priority needs.
To celebrate and recognize everyone's efforts, a special concrete truck drum was designed featuring the tagline: Building a solid foundation for The Hospital for Sick Children.
We thank Dufferin Concrete for its initiative and inspiration and we look forward to the program's growth. Look for the truck around Toronto!
For the week of April 14, 2008
Mead Johnson
The relationship between Mead Johnson Nutritionals and The Hospital for Sick Children dates back to the 1930s when Mead Johnson began producing and marketing Pablum, a vitamin and mineral-enriched baby cereal and an invention of SickKids researchers.
The royalties from this relationship largely financed research at the hospital for many years. Nearly 80 years later, Mead Johnson continues to support excellence in research and education at SickKids, specifically in the areas of Motherisk and nutrition.
We thank Mead Johnson for its longstanding commitment to children's health and SickKids.
For the week of March 31, 2008
The Masons of Ontario
The Masons of Ontario have been a part of SickKids since the early 1880's, when John Ross Robertson visited the hospital not long after he had lost his daughter to scarlet fever. Robertson later became the first chairman of the hospital's Board of Trustees, and the most celebrated member of the Masonic order in Canada.
Since then, the Ontario Masons have continued John Ross Robertson's legacy of improving the lives of children and families through its own commitments to SickKids Foundation. Most recently, the Masonic Foundation of Ontario made a visionary investment in the development of the SickKids Cochlear Implant Program, playing an integral role in establishing SickKids as the largest centre for paediatric cochlear implantation in North America and as an international leader in hearing research.
Our warmest thanks to the Masons of Ontario for its continued dedication to SickKids.
For the week of March 20, 2008
Foresters
Since 1984, Foresters, a life insurance company and supporter of the Children's Miracle Network, has partnered with SickKids Foundation as the presenting sponsor of the Annual SickKids Radiothon. With the support of Foresters, the Radiothon has become the largest in the North America and raised more than $3.7 million last year. Foresters has been a long-term, committed contributor to SickKids Foundation and has made a remarkable impact by investing in local communities, focusing on improving children's health and promoting volunteerism throughout their network.
"Foresters is proud to be a longtime sponsor of SickKids and the Annual SickKids Radiothon," says George Mohacsi, Foresters President and CEO. "Foresters believes in helping children and their families, and what better way to do this than to help raise much-needed funds for the hospital. This way, SickKids can continue to provide the best of care to our children, our future."
For the week of March 10, 2008
Bell Canada
Bell has supported SickKids Foundation for more than three decades and is a company truly dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children. Bell's most recent commitment of $10 million over five years is allowing SickKids to renovate its emergency department.
This transformation will allow SickKids to give even more support to its patients and families during what is often an extremely stressful time. Bell raises funds through the annual, award-winning Bell Celebrity Gala, a corporate gift and through the generosity of its employees.
Our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Bell for believing in our vision: Healthier Children. A Better World.™
For the week of March 3, 2008
The Printing House Charitable Office
The Printing House Limited™ (TPH®) is a recognized leader in supplying on-demand quick printing across Canada. In addition to 45 years of great customer service, TPH® is also invested in the community through its Charitable Office.
The Charitable Office was formed in 1983 by Earle O'Born, President and CEO of TPH®, along with his wife Janice, to "help others, help themselves." The office has raised millions for Canadian charities in health care and education; it is no surprise that The Hospital for Sick Children falls into that category. Both Earle and Janice are active supporters of SickKids and Janice sits on the Board of Directors for SickKids Foundation.
On January 14, 2008, TPH® Charitable Office presented a cheque for $26,668.02 to SickKids Foundation to support Safe Kids Canada, which is the national injury prevention program of SickKids. SickKids Foundation gratefully acknowledges the support of TPH® Charitable Office and its employees for their generous support of Safe Kids Canada.
IBM
The IBM Employee Charitable Contributions Campaign (ECCC) is a longstanding tradition at IBM that exemplifies one of its core values: "Innovation that matters for the world."
For more than 20 years, IBM employees and the IBM matching grants program have funded highest priority needs at The Hospital for Sick Children. We thank IBM for its on-going dedication and support of SickKids Foundation.
For the week of February 25, 2008
Life for Luke Foundation
At 14 months old, Luke Liegghio was diagnosed with Niemann-Pick Type C (NPC), a very rare genetic disease that doesn't have a cure. In the hopes of saving their son, his parents, Lucy and Enio Liegghio, founded the Life for Luke Foundation in 2001, with the simple mission of finding a cure.
Unfortunately, Luke lost his battle to NPC, but fundraising efforts have not been in vain. His parents knew what the future would hold as children with this disease rarely survive past their teenage years, so they have made the commitment to keep going in Luke's honour. Fundraising efforts in excess of $580,000 have helped launch various research initiatives at SickKids and other NPC research foundations.
For the week of February 18, 2008
Liam's Light
Liam is a bright 6-year-old child who was born with Caroli disease, a rare, life-threatening illness that affects the kidneys and liver. In 2001 Liam's parents, Doug and Deborah Moore, started a fundraising effort called Liam's Light. It supports research and care for paediatric transplant recipients at The Hospital for Sick Children.
In 2006, SickKids officially opened the Liam's Light Step Down Unit on 6A. This unit is a vital recovery unit for children who have recently received transplants. Through ongoing fundraising events, Liam's Light has successfully raised more than $350,000.
On behalf of everyone at SickKids Foundation, thank you for all the support!
For the week of February 11, 2008
b.r.a.i.n.child
b.r.a.i.n.child is an incredible volunteer organization that provides support and education to parents, family and friends who share a common experience of caring for a child with a brain tumour or a child who has overcome a brain tumour.
Along with the help of many successful events that support this organization, b.r.a.i.n.child has been able to raise millions of dollars to fund brain tumour research and awareness at SickKids.
Thank you b.r.a.i.n.child for your ongoing dedication.
For the week of February 4, 2008
Pedal Power
Pedal Power began four years ago with the dream of bringing together the community to ride for a cause. Organizers, Rocchina Scrocco, Barbara Rizzo and Karen Bernardo of Carpe Diem Fitness, formed the committee. In its first year, a four-hour indoor spinning events raised money to support The Betty Wallace Breast Cancer Centre at the Trillium Health Centre. In 2006, Pedal Power changed its focus to support children's health care. Naturally, The Hospital for Sick Children seemed to be the perfect fit.
On Sunday, January 27, 2008, Pedal Power held its third event in support of the hospital and raised $50,000. To date, the events have raised a total of $110,000 in support of leukemia paediatric research through the Hats off 2 Kidz Fund. Congratulations Pedal Power. We truly appreciate your tireless efforts and commendable enthusiasm for helping SickKids.
For the week of January 21, 2008
Astellas Pharma Canada
For many years, Astellas Pharma Canada has shown its commitment to education in the area of paediatric dermatology. The company's generosity has supported the Dr. Bernice Krafchik Astellas Pharma Canada Fellowship in the Dermatology department at SickKids for the past four years.
Thanks to the support of Astellas, the department has been able to train dermatologists from around the world, who have since returned to their communities with the necessary skills to provide specialized care and service to an entire population.
We thank Astellas Pharma Canada for its on-going support of SickKids.
For the week of January 14, 2008
Home Hardware
Since 2002, SickKids Foundation has been proud to be one of Home Hardware's national charitable partners.
By raising funds through local fundraising events, calendar sales and other initiatives, Home Hardware and its dealers have raised more than $1.2 million in support of the world-renowned research at SickKids.
Each year, Home Hardware celebrates its relationship with SickKids at a Blue Jays game, inviting one of our patients onto the field for a special presentation.
For the week of January 7, 2008
Brandan's Eye Fund
The Cescolini family continues in their effort to eradicate childhood glaucoma and cataracts through their support of SickKids Foundation with Brandan's Eye Research Fund. The fund is inspired by their son Brandan, who is a patient at the eye clinic at The Hospital for Sick Children. Since 2003, the fund has generated over half a million dollars with the ultimate goal of giving children the gift of sight for life.
Most of the fundraising takes place with a Gala held in February each year and through becoming the charitable partner for community golf tournaments. While fundraising is their primary goal, creating awareness of childhood vision diseases is a priority for the Cescolini family as well. The family feels it's important to support research in the area of children's glaucoma and cataracts as most funding for such research is geared towards adults. SickKids Foundation appreciates the Cescolini family for their ongoing support through Brandan's Eye Research Fund.