The year was 1980. It was the dawn of a new decade, six years before Vancouver would host the World Exposition, and a time when Billy Joel, Queen and Diana Ross were ruling the airwaves and the Vancouver General Hospital Foundation was established. The first order of business was to raise much-needed funds for an ambulance, and local philanthropists were ready to step up and help make this happen. A few years later, a merger with UBC Hospital led to the naming of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.

40 years later, you have helped us make $1 billion of impact on your health care system. Our growth, expertise and partnerships have made us the philanthropic engine for health innovation and transformation in BC.

You have helped realize the creation of brand-new facilities, clinics and health centres, established world-leading research spaces and filled them with state-of-the-art equipment to be utilized by the best clinician-scientists. Our partners have made life-saving breakthroughs, from identifying new cancer subtypes to revolutionizing surgical procedures.

None of this would be possible without you. Every one of our donors, friends and supporters are vital to this success story.

Since I assumed the role of President & CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation in January 2020, we have seen the single greatest challenge to our health care system in my lifetime. I have been inspired by how our health care partners, our donors and the community have responded to this challenge. Our mission to inspire donors, transform health care and save lives has never been more relevant.

The magazine you’re reading is a celebration of this mission. Inside you will find stories of honesty, hope, and humanity. Stories of the impact your gifts have made, and of the heath care heroes on the frontlines of a global pandemic. I hope these features allow you to see yourself reflected in our health care system. Whether it’s a story of an immigrant improving the city that welcomed them, an expectant mother adapting to a new workplace reality, or a friendly reminder to take a moment to pause and practice self-care.

Because each of us has a role to play in creating healthier communities. Thank you for joining with us to be the vital difference.

I hope you enjoy this inaugural issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together. If you have thoughts or feedback please visit vghfoundation.ca/contact and get in touch. 

Angela Chapman
President & CEO
VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation