Community leader’s generosity aims to improve and celebrate health care

To support innovations in health care, Johnny Fong committed $2 million to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.

The donation will enhance the care provided at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) in the emergency and operating rooms, as well as accelerate research unfolding across its campus.

VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation hosted a celebration to recognize Fong’s generosity – his largest to a Canadian hospital.

Fong’s tenacity fuelled his journey as a humble young man working on a cruise ship to a successful entrepreneur. He eventually made his way to Vancouver where he made his mark on the retail and supply industry. His business acumen and work ethic are only rivalled by his commitment to give back to the communities that shaped who he is. While Fong’s story may not be unique, his desire to inspire others is. He is truly passionate about sharing what motivates him. The depth and breadth of his philanthropy is a testament of that desire to spread goodwill across Canada. “My journey as a Chinese immigrant in Canada has been abundant and fulfilling. Now that I have the resources, I feel the best gift to my community is to improve our health care system.”

VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is extremely grateful for Johnny’s inspired investment to advance health care. His philanthropy will accelerate research and improve care in four key areas – lung transplant and thoracic surgery, emergency medicine, diabetes and breast cancer. Supporting our medical leaders ensures excellence in the care delivered at VGH and UBC Hospital and impacts thousands of British Columbians. “These generous donations from Johnny, and the growing number of Chinese-Canadian donors from across the Lower Mainland, is transforming health care and saving lives” says Angela Chapman, President & CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.

Over the years, Fong has supported education initiatives in China and donated more than $5 million to deserving causes across Canada. “I hope this most recent gift will inspire my fellow Chinese-Vancouver community to follow in my footsteps,” says Fong. Vivian Eliopoulos, President & CEO, Vancouver Coastal Health added that “donors like Johnny have a positive impact on the millions of British Columbians who find themselves in our facilities. We thank him for his generous spirit and support.”