Andrew’s Story
“I should have died.”
Andrew Illing was 22. There was no warning. No diagnosis.
Then a sharp pain hit his chest. His face and arm went numb. An ultrasound at UBC Hospital showed a tear in his aorta — one of the deadliest cardiovascular emergencies.
Many people with Type A aortic dissections never reach the hospital. Survival depends on immediate, specialized care.
In Andrew’s case, it depended on VGH.
At VGH, cardiac surgeon Dr. Edward Percy rebuilt his heart, with the support of the specialized cardiac ICU team who cared for him around the clock. Then, the rehab experts at VGH and UBC Hospital rebuilt his strength.
They were Andrew’s angels.
Honour yours with a gift to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Angel Campaign, ensuring patients like Andrew get the best care when they need it most.
When lives are at stake, the people of BC depend on VGH. This is BC’s safety net.
This is BC’s hospital.
DonateDonate in honour of your angel
Your support ensures seriously ill and injured patients across BC have access to VGH — BC’s hospital — for exceptional care when they need it most. Donate:
About the Angel Campaign
From November to January, the holiday trees at VGH, UBC Hospital and G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre will be filled with hundreds of ornaments carrying messages of love and gratitude to friends and family, medical teams and hospital staff.
Thanks to generous donors, the Angel Campaign has raised $5M+ since 2001. Please make your donation to Angel Campaign this holiday season and ensure patients like Andrew get the best care when they need it most.
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Over 25 Years of Angels
That’s more than 25 years of hope, healing and powerful stories made possible by your support.
+ Vancouver General Hospital
The largest, most specialized hospital in BC
Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) cares for the most complex patient needs across BC. It is the number one adult health care referral centre, with nearly half of all patients coming from outside Vancouver for advanced treatments only available here.
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+ UBC Hospital
One of BC’s premier teaching and research facilities
UBC Hospital offers specialized treatment for non-life-threatening emergencies and surgical care. Home to numerous dedicated clinics and programs in unique areas such as brain health and sleep disorders, it delivers innovative, patient-centred care while training the next generation of health care leaders.
DonateDriving Change Through Key Health Care Impact Areas
See where your support fuels innovation and better care for BC.
HELP CREATE HEALTHIER LIVES IN BC
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Your generosity funds groundbreaking research, world-class health care teams and life-saving treatments for the most complex cases across the province.
The leading charity investing in health care innovation in BC.
Charity Number 132173063RR0001
