Published: November 2024

Sam and Uttra Bhargava know the impact of illness and loss all too well, but instead of letting tragedy define them, every day they choose to turn their painful experiences into action.

Their motivation came after a series of personal heartbreaks. Together, they cared for Sam’s father and mother as they battled Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, then they faced the devastating loss of their daughter, Suruchi, who was paralyzed after a devastating car accident. The Bhargavas were determined to get involved with healthcare, particularly research, and make an impact.

“What we suffered, we didn’t want other community members to suffer,” says Uttra.

Uttra and Sam Bhargava at the unveiling of the Bhargava Neurosciences Clinic.

Uttra and Sam Bhargava with Dr. Michael Schlossmacher.

This resolve led them to become dedicated advocates and supporters of medical research focused on finding cures for neurodegenerative diseases and spinal cord injuries.

Over the years, they’ve travelled the world to familiarize themselves with the research in this field. And after everything they’ve seen, they choose to contribute significantly to the research efforts right here at The Ottawa Hospital.

In 2012, they made a $1 million gift to establish the Bhargava Research Chair in Neurodegeneration, which went to Dr. Michael Schlossmacher, an award-winning scientist who has made numerous major discoveries in neurodegenerative diseases. They also established the Suruchi Bhargava Chair in Spinal Cord Research in honour of their daughter. Then in 2021, they committed an initial $500,000 to the Campaign to Create Tomorrow in support of the new hospital campus, which will be the future home to a new neuroscience centre.

“We’ve called philanthropy a down payment on a cure, and that is really true. We’re still paying down, but we’re seeing progress.”
— Sam Bhargava

Today, they’re seeing the real impact philanthropic support can have on patients through research at The Ottawa Hospital.

“We’ve called philanthropy a down payment on a cure, and that is really true. We’re still paying down, but we’re seeing progress,” says Sam. “Diagnosis of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s used to be very challenging. In my mother’s case, it took her eight years to get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Since then, diagnosis has improved for both conditions, and The Ottawa Hospital’s Dr. David Grimes wrote a manual on how to diagnose Parkinson’s that changed everything. This is just one example of the practice-changing research happening right here in Ottawa — there is so much.”

Uttra and Sam Bhargava with Dr. Eve Tsai.

And the Bhargavas aren’t stopping any time soon. To encourage others to join them in their mission, they have furthered their commitment by matching all donations made to the campaign between November 1 and December 31, 2024, up to a maximum of $500,000.

For them, it’s about more than just giving; it’s about investing in the future. They are especially aware of the growing pressure on our healthcare system as we face an aging population. Over the next 20 years, Canada’s population over the age of 65 is expected to grow by more than 40%, going from about 19% of the population to 25% of the population.

“We’ll keep raising money for The Ottawa Hospital until we can’t, and our children have been joining us in our philanthropy.”
— Sam Bhargava

“For us, it’s the rational thing to do — the efficient thing to do. The Ottawa Hospital ranks very highly in Canada for research, and they use the power of many by collaborating with other research institutions here in Canada and worldwide. In fact, The Ottawa Hospital ranks fourth in all of Canada for research funding,” explains Sam. “It’s like venture capital: we bet on something with promise, and it’s just growing and growing.”

The Bhargavas are leveraging philanthropy to reshape healthcare — they want to ensure future generations have access to the best healthcare and the most innovative research. They hope to help shape a future where families won’t face the same struggles they did.

“We’ll keep raising money for The Ottawa Hospital until we can’t, and our children have been joining us in our philanthropy,” says Sam. The Bhargava’s children proudly contributed to the family’s commitment to the campaign last year— a true family legacy.

“What’s happening at The Ottawa Hospital touches our hearts. If we help the people making discoveries there, they are going to help us all one day.”
— Uttra Bhargava

Their personal journey, passion for research, and unfailing generosity have made the Bhargavas champions for change. And now, they are inviting the community to join them in in challenging what is possible tomorrow.

“What’s happening at The Ottawa Hospital touches our hearts,” says Uttra. “If we help the people making discoveries there, they are going to help us all one day.”

Sam and Uttra Bhargava in 2015 with Drs. Tsai, Schlossmacher and Grimes

Categories: Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors, Donors

In a family with more than 120 descendants, it can be challenging to pull everyone together for the same cause. But, when you’re talking about honouring the very people from whom those descendants came, that’s an easy one.

It’s a story that Ottawa resident Camille Mikhael likes to tell — about the rich roots of his family that originated in Lebanon, spread out around the world, and then settled with much success in Ottawa. They are roots that, to this day, nurture this community in so many ways.

But to understand the story, you need to go back to the beginning, to where the story takes root. It starts with Youssef and Najebeh Mikhael, Camille’s grandparents, who ran a box factory in a small village in Lebanon. The couple had 13 children, many of whom were also involved in the business. Camille says when the civil war broke out in 1975, Youssef and his family, who were members of the religious minority, were targeted. After unsuccessful assassination attempts on both him and his wife, Youssef packed up all the family and fled to Canada where one son was already attending school.

“I think there were 20 people sleeping in one apartment,” says Camille. “My grandparents didn’t speak English, so my aunts and uncles got jobs doing whatever they could.”

Camille with family in front of the Najah Ayoub Consult Room at the Rose Ages Breast Health Centre, which was named after Camille’s aunt who died of breast cancer in 2010 at the age of 49.

Supported by those strong family roots and a bolstered by a good work ethic, they have all managed to create thriving businesses in Ottawa over the years in what Camille calls “a good immigrant success story.” And, like so many others who are thankful to this country and this city for embracing them, they have a strong desire to give back.

“There’s no better or more fitting tribute than this.”
— Camille Mikhael

The Mikhael family has just donated $100,000 from the proceeds of their charity poker tournament to The Ottawa Hospital’s Campaign to Create Tomorrow. In honour of this gift, a hospital room at the new campus will be named after their grandparents.

“There’s no better or more fitting tribute than this,” explains Camille. “They are the ones who gave us not only the opportunity to thrive here, but also the opportunity to come together and do something good. And to see their two names together on a wall is such a beautiful thing to us.”

The donation is being made through the Najah Ayoub Foundation, named after Camille’s aunt who died of breast cancer in 2010 at the age of 49. The family made an earlier donation of $100,000 in her memory and, in 2018, her relatives gathered at The Ottawa Hospital’s Rose Ages Breast Health Centre to see the unveiling of the Najah Ayoub Consult Room.

“Our goal is to make sure we are shining as bright a light as possible so that we can spread our generosity as far as it can go.”
— Camille Mikhael

Camille explains that Najah’s nickname was “Sunshine” because her smile and joie de vivre filled the room with sun. After Najah’s death, Camille, a sponsored poker professional for many years, established the city’s largest charity poker tournament appropriately called the “Sunshine Poker Tournament,” with proceeds going to a variety of causes including The Ottawa Hospital Foundation. Camille says he is impressed with the Foundation’s status as one of the most efficient healthcare foundations in Canada, with our cost to raise a dollar at $0.18. Additionally, for eleven consecutive years, The Ottawa Hospital Foundation has been named a High Performer by the Association of Healthcare Professionals.

So far, the Najah Ayoub Foundation has raised more than half a million dollars.

“You don’t know when you plant those seeds of good exactly what kind of tree or flower will blossom,” says Camille. “But our goal is to make sure we are shining as bright a light as possible so that we can spread our generosity as far as it can go.”

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Clifford North’s story is a testament to resilience, self-determination, and gratitude.

Adopted at birth and raised in rural Manitoba, his humble beginnings meant his early years were marked by a lack of resources — including medical care. But Clifford’s spirit was always strong.

At age 21, now making his own way through life, a routine blood test revealed something that had been missed because of years without regular healthcare: Clifford had been born with only one kidney.

“I’m probably in better shape than I have been for many years.”
— Clifford North

Determined to live a long and healthy life, he committed himself to following the guidelines his doctors set out for him. He stuck to a healthy diet and avoided contact sports, but by no means sat back and coasted through life. Early on, he played softball and later took up curling and golf. Now, at age 80, says “I’m probably in better shape than I have been for many years” Clifford says.

Clifford and Jocelyne on their wedding day in 1988 with sons Darryl and Glen.

Jocelyne (centre), in 2017 with family members representing five generations.

Clifford’s career also kept him busy. He has worn many hats, including those of an accountant, computer systems consultant, financial planner, and even a sculptor. He also landscaped, made additions, and remodeled homes over the last 45 years. His motto, “I can do anything I put my mind to,” has guided him through every challenge and triumph.

For 72 years, Clifford’s one kidney held out — in large part because of the care he took to protect it. But eight years ago, life took a significant turn. He needed a transplant, and none of his family members were a viable match. That was when a friend and fellow curler at the North Grenville Curling Club circulated a letter asking people to get tested to see if they were a match.

As it turned out, Wayne Pitt was the match Clifford needed, and he graciously offered to be the donor.

Testing was completed over a seven-month period, and on September 1, 2016, Clifford underwent a successful kidney transplant at the Ottawa General Campus. His creatine level was 500 going in, but 82 coming out of surgery and has remained the same. Today, he and his donor share a special bond, golfing and curling together. “We joke that I look after his left kidney for him,” Clifford says with a laugh.

Wayne Pitt was a match and graciously offered to be the donor

Reflecting on the surgery, Clifford recalls no fear, despite the seriousness of the procedure. “I just face life as it comes. I had no pain whatsoever from the operation. I had excellent care on the seventh floor for the four or five days I was there, and follow-up has been excellent.”

“I’m going on eight years as a kidney transplant patient at The Ottawa Hospital. I felt I could afford it. It’s my way of giving back.”
— Clifford North

The same lack of hesitation that led him to follow doctors’ orders all those years ago is what led Clifford to support The Ottawa Hospital as a monthly donor. “I’m going on eight years as a kidney transplant patient at The Ottawa Hospital. I felt I could afford it. It’s my way of giving back.”

Jocelyne and Clifford with friends at Lake Chapala, Mexico

Now retired, Clifford enjoys a vibrant life in Kanata with his wife, Jocelyne. As they celebrate 36 years of marriage, they cherish the family they have built together: two sons, two daughters, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Retirement has given Clifford and Jocelyne the freedom to travel extensively — from visiting museums in Paris, dinning in Italy, exploring the Czech Republic (Czechia) or enjoying a sunset in Hawaii, Australia, and Mexico. Even when at home, Clifford golfs about twice a week, exploring courses all over Eastern Ontario.

“I can’t think of another place that’s as important. Almost every one of us will at some point be touched by The Ottawa Hospital.”
— Clifford North

Clifford’s story is more than just a personal triumph; it’s an inspiring call to action. “I made it from nothing to end up retiring in style and being able to help out the hospital financially,” he says. “I can’t think of another place that’s as important. Almost every one of us will at some point be touched by The Ottawa Hospital.”

Clifford’s ongoing support is a testament to the lifesaving work of the hospital and the incredible community that surrounds it. He hopes sharing his story will inspire others to consider becoming monthly donors to The Ottawa Hospital — helping ensure patients receive exceptional care when they need it.

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Published: August 2024

When Dr. Francois Auclair and Jennifer Toby met six years ago, they developed an immediate bond over their shared connection to The Ottawa Hospital. Despite their different approaches to helping the hospital’s community, both had a strong passion for giving back.

“It was essentially common values,” says Dr. Auclair of what connected them.

The two have worked hard for The Ottawa Hospital and given back in many ways, including through their work, time, donations, volunteering, and, most recently, they decided to leave a gift in their will to our hospital. Jennifer sees it as an important investment in the future of healthcare.

“Any financial contribution is an investment in making this a better hospital,” says Jennifer.

While they only became a couple a few years ago, their respective contributions began long before they knew one another and have made a significant impact.

“Any financial contribution is an investment in making this a better hospital."

— Jennifer Toby

A leading infectious disease expert drawn to The Ottawa Hospital

Dr. Auclair is an infectious disease expert who has dedicated more than 38 years to The Ottawa Hospital. After growing up in Trois-Rivieres and training in the United States, he was drawn to our hospital because of the complexity of the work that comes with a large healthcare centre.

As a clinician, he’s always prioritized what he describes as, “The bedside practice and the humanity aspect of medicine.” This aligns exactly with the vision of this hospital — to provide each patient with the world-class care, exceptional service, and compassion we would want for our loved ones.

One of his main interests is how to best explain to a patient what their health issue is. “Patients sometimes don’t receive clear explanations about the state of their health, and I understand how distressing this can be. I’ve always been a bedside type of physician, and I never liked the cold approach that I sometimes observed,” he says. “I think it makes a big difference in the wellbeing of the patient.”

His belief that the emotional journey of the patient is critically important is one of the core values he and Jennifer shared when they first met and something that continues to connect them to this day.

The “art” of philanthropy

Since 2000, Jennifer has been supporting our hospital. It began when she participated in the campaign to support a new Critical Care Wing at the General Campus. Her passion for the hospital, she says, comes in part from the fact that so many important social issues are dealt with here.

“It addresses all types of issues, from homelessness to aging well to having babies,” says Jennifer. “I think that a good hospital experience stays with you, and I appreciate the fact that we have an excellent hospital here.”

The couple has also found a meaningful way to join their focus on healthcare with their love of art. Since its inception, they have been integral to Creative Wellbeing, a community building initiative connecting local artists with our hospital researchers and clinicians to create original art to enhance hospital spaces and the patient experience.

The Trias Art Prize, which is part of Creative Wellbeing, is a juried competition that intersects art, science, medicine, and community. It is a unique partnership between the community, Ottawa Art Gallery, and The Ottawa Hospital. Local artists submitted work which was reviewed by a jury and five pieces were selected and are now on display at the entrance of the General Campus.

Dr. Auclair and Jennifer Toby with several Trias artists and guests at the official installation in 2023.

Svetlana Swinimer, winner of the Art and Science Residency award speaking with Dr. Auclair and Jennifer Toby.

“The Trias prize reflects the commitment to excellence, creativity, and inclusiveness inherent in the Ottawa artistic community, OAG, and The Ottawa Hospital. The prize uses art as a way to knit together the hospital and the community it serves, while creating a more interesting and attractive hospital for patients, staff, and visitors,” says Jennifer.

Beyond just demonstrating the hospital’s world-leading research, Jennifer sees art as a method to provide relief and calm in some of life’s most difficult moments, and her art initiative does just that for many patients.

One patient who was at the hospital for a nerve-racking test shared a note with the hospital team about how she experienced a moment of reprieve while looking at the Trias exhibit on the wall. She expressed appreciation that the hospital looked after not only her physical body, but also her mental and emotional body.

“It means something to the people who come,” says Jennifer. “To me, it’s about the humanity that is at the core of a hospital, but can get lost in the need for efficiency and the hectic pace of a hospital.”

A shared passion for giving

While Dr. Auclair has always had an innate appreciation for art, he says meeting Jennifer brought it out of him. “I’ve come to realize that the entire sensory experience of the patient matters greatly,” he says. “From how they are touched in the hospital to what they see around them.”

Together, they’ve visited multiple healthcare facilities in Europe, taking inspiration from the art-filled walls they’ve seen and the ways in which they portray care. Art has been incorporated into hospitals for centuries to bring care and comfort to patients. The couple has toured hospitals and hospital museums across Canada, as well as in England, Italy, and Belgium. The Creative Arts program at Chelsea Westminster Hospital in London, UK has been a valuable advisor to Creative Wellbeing.

“There are different ways to help, but that's the idea — we need to help, big or small.”

— Dr. Auclair

While art has become a mutual passion for them, what they’ve always shared is a common desire to help in whatever way they can. ‘How can I help?’ is Dr. Auclair’s way of thinking. “There are different ways to help, but that’s the idea — we need to help, big or small.”

And help they have. In a true act of generosity, the couple forewent gifts at their wedding and asked guests to donate to The Ottawa Hospital instead.

A legacy for the future of healthcare

The latest contribution will perhaps be the longest lasting. The couple has chosen to leave a gift in their will to the hospital. It’s this type of forward-thinking that helps the hospital plan — whether it’s donation from the estate, a gift of life insurance, or gifts of securities — large or small it helps future generations access the care they need. For Jennifer, it comes down to one question, “Is there anything I can contribute?”

That’s something we want to continue to build on, to strengthen, however we can do it. The hospital needs investment from the community.”

— Jennifer Toby

And her answer is yes. According to Jennifer, the reason is simple. “We are very fortunate in this community to have The Ottawa Hospital that will provide the specialized care when you need it, so you don’t have go somewhere else. That’s something we want to continue to build on, to strengthen, however we can do it. The hospital needs investment from the community.”

A hospital is a place that all of us will need at one point or another, she adds, and knowing there’s somewhere you or a loved one can go to receive supportive care — a place full of people who have devoted their lives to caring for people who need it — is essential.

Categories: New Campus Development, TOH Family

Published: June 2024

It wasn’t your typical road trip. Then again, 2020 wasn’t your typical year. But when the opportunity arose for John Bruce to have double hip resurfacing surgery at The Ottawa Hospital, he didn’t want to turn it down, even during a pandemic. So, in September of that year, he and his wife, Tiffany Hamilton, and their 3-year-old daughter decided to make the most of a 4300-kilometre cross-country RV trek from Vancouver to Ottawa.

“To get the best surgical treatment for his situation, we decided to take our COVID safety bubble on a cross-country RV road trip.”

— Tiffany Hamilton

“To get John safely to Ottawa where he could get the best surgical treatment for his situation, we decided to take our Covid safety bubble on a cross-country RV road trip.”

The “best surgical treatment” that Tiffany is referring to was found at the Division of Orthopaedic Surgery at The Ottawa Hospital — their ultimate destination.

John, who was an active 52-year-old at the time, was in severe pain. Even a short walk was nearly impossible. “It was painful,” says John. “I thought at first that I had sciatica. I’d done a lot of running over the years and have a large frame, but an x-ray showed severe osteoarthritis in both hips– I was taken very much by surprise.”

Seeking expertise on orthopaedics

But how does someone from Vancouver end up as a patient at The Ottawa Hospital?

“It’s not unusual,” says Dr. Paul E. Beaulé, former Chief of Orthopaedic Surgery at The Ottawa Hospital and Director of Research and Innovation for the University of Ottawa Orthopaedic Program. He was also the orthopaedic surgeon who performed John’s hip resurfacing. “Patients will seek surgeons with expertise in a particular field,” he explains.

Dr. Beaulé certainly has that expertise. He has spent his career specializing in the preservation and replacement of hips. With more than 350 papers and 200 lectures and workshops in orthopaedic research to his name, Dr. Beaulé is among the top 2% most-cited authors in the world in the field of orthopaedics. In addition to his current roles at The Ottawa Hospital, he is also the Chief of Staff at Hawkesbury and District General Hospital.

Hip resurfacing is a specialized kind of hip replacement where a minimal amount of bone is removed from the head of the femur. It preserves more of the bone and increases stability. “A crown vs. a dental implant,” is how Dr. Beaulé compares the two.Resurfacing is best suited to young adult males with good bone quality. The Ottawa Hospital does about 150 hip resurfacing procedures a year compared to 350 to 400 total hip replacements.

While the procedure is done elsewhere, it was not presented as an option for John in B.C. He heard about Dr. Beaulé through a colleague of Tiffany’s, so he researched The Ottawa Hospital’s orthopaedic program and discovered that “Dr. Beaulé and his team are very much world experts in this procedure.”

Looking ahead and better than ever

Now, four years later, he says it’s as though he never even had arthritis.

“There’s an old saying that when you repair something expertly, it’s better than from the factory,” says John. He believes the surgery has helped add years to his life, allowing him to become very active again, to improve his overall physical and heart health as well as family, work life and mental health.

“I think he lived in pain probably longer than he remembers,” adds Tiffany. “And that pain robs you from being fully present and from enjoying life.”

“I am so grateful for the care I received by Dr. Beaulé and his team.”

— John Bruce

John and Tiffany have recently made a meaningful donation to The Ottawa Hospital to help ensure future patients will be able to receive specialized care like John did. In fact, the new hospital campus will be home to one of the most state-of-the-art surgical facilities in Canada.

“Being an engineer by training and involved in innovation my entire career, I am fascinated by how research in biomechanics can help solve some of these major problems in orthopaedic surgery,” says John.

“I am so grateful for the care I received by Dr. Beaulé and his team,” he adds. “We need to actively support and enhance this kind of specialized care so that it can be available to all Canadians – It got me wondering about the need for and benefits of further developing Canadian national centres of excellence for specialized treatments such as what I received. The Ottawa Hospital’s orthopaedic department is indeed a national treasure.”

Categories: Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow, Creating Tomorrow

Published: May 2024

From now until August 31st, Waterdon will match the donation of each new monthly donor for a year.

“There is a story to every donation that we make,” Russell Grass explains.

He and his wife Linda have been supporting local charities and initiatives in the community, both personally and through their companies, for many years, and there is always a story behind the good work they do.

Like making sure there are enough Toys R Us gift cards to go around during the holidays, because “I can’t imagine a child going without presents at Christmas,” says Russell. Or answering a call for help from The Ottawa Mission to make sure they had the downpayment for the van they desperately needed to carry out their vital work.

Their philanthropy spans across many other organizations, including Ronald McDonald House, Dreams Take Flight, Candlelighters, the Stittsville Food Bank, and The Ottawa Hospital Foundation. And their businesses, Waterdon Construction, Merlin Door Systems, and Alloy Fabrications, have also been making a difference in the lives of countless members of their community.

But it’s their support of healthcare that tells a deeply personal story, and it’s why they are issuing a match gift opportunity through their company, Waterdon, for new monthly donors to The Ottawa Hospital.

Linda was treated at the former Breast Health Centre, and Russell is receiving care through the Division of Urology. Both of Russell’s parents died of heart disease, and Linda’s father died from cancer.

“I also lost my sister — my best friend,” says Russell. “My brother had cancer twice, and he had a heart attack. I have good friends who are patients at the Men’s Health Clinic.”

"To me, supporting healthcare in Ottawa is incredibly important.”

— Russell Grass

When the Grass Family Men’s Health Clinic opened at The Ottawa Hospital in 2021, creating a dedicated space for excellence in men’s healthcare and research, it was those personal stories that inspired them. “It can be difficult when facing a health scare,” Russell said at the time. “We know this from personal experience. From research to diagnostics and testing to ongoing care. — we wanted to be part of ensuring the people of Ottawa had access to this kind of excellent care.”

When it came to supporting the Campaign to Create Tomorrow, it was yet another story that inspired Russell and Linda.

As he considered making a donation, Russell’s thoughts kept turning to a friend who had undergone cancer treatment and had experienced anxiety over a lack of privacy during some parts of that treatment.

He learned that when the new hospital campus opens, it will open with additional beds, all designed with patient well-being in mind and using evidence-based design principles to create spaces that go beyond medical care, fostering an environment conducive to healing.

A key feature of this approach is the one-patient, one-bedroom, one-bathroom model. This ensures better infection control, greater privacy, and a more restful environment for patients.

“Every time I thought about those one-patient rooms, I thought about my friend."

— Russell Grass

When it came time to make the decision to donate, it was these thoughts of his friend that inspired him. “I think we should do this. We should get in on the front end of this.”

Though Russell and Linda are community philanthropists, it’s not something they’ve often spoken about. “We’ve always been behind the curtains,” explains Russell. “It’s only in the last two years and a half that we’ve become vocal about our support.”

By coming forward, they’re hoping to help instill a community-minded spirit in everyone around them.

“Ottawa has been very good to us, and we want to give back to this city we love and call home. Our kids are here, and their families are all here,” says Russell. “It’s the right thing to do.”

With this sentiment top of mind, Waterdon is hoping to inspire others with a special gift-matching opportunity. From now until August 31st, Waterdon will match the donation of each new monthly donor for a year.*

Russell and Linda hope sharing their story — and the stories that have moved them to make their community a better place — will inspire others to support the Campaign to Create Tomorrow and ensure a better healthcare future, right here in Ottawa.

(*up to $100,000)

Monthly gifts provide a predictable source of much-needed funding and offer donors the convenience of evenly distributed automatic payments.

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Published: March 2024

Agnès Jaouich and her husband Rémy strongly believe in the power of giving back. Their journey of supporting The Ottawa Hospital began two decades ago, when Rémy was a hospital pharmacist in the region and Agnès was appointed as vice-chair of the first Ottawa Hospital Board. In that role, she saw firsthand the dedication of the staff, the challenges they faced, and their unwavering commitment to their patients.

“It was obvious that there was a need for funding to support the healthcare of the community,” says Agnès, “so we became monthly donors, and are now supporting The Campaign to Create Tomorrow.”

Their dedication became deeply personal when, in 2021, Rémy was diagnosed with colon cancer. Dr. Robin Boushey’s team at The Ottawa Hospital started working immediately. The results after surgery were encouraging, and thankfully, no further treatment was needed.

But their journey wasn’t over.

“As soon as the diagnosis was made, Nurse Kelly tapped Rémy’s shoulder and said, ‘Welcome to the family.’…She understood the effect of this news and wanted Rémy to know that they would take care of him.”

— Agnès Jaouich

A year later, Rémy faced another battle, this time with bladder cancer. At the Urology Clinic, Dr. Jeffrey Warren identified the tumor. “As soon as the diagnosis was made,” Agnès recounts, “Nurse Kelly tapped Rémy’s shoulder and said, ‘Welcome to the family.’ She knew that Rémy would have many visits. She understood the effect of this news and wanted Rémy to know that they would take care of him.”

They were referred to Dr. Scott Morgan and Dr. Christina Canil, who developed and led Rémy’s radiation and chemotherapy treatments with expertise and optimism, offering hope in the face of adversity.

“The difference between my parents’ cancer treatments and Rémy’s was like night and day. One can see how important research and innovation are for treating cancer and how donations can make an impact.”

— Agnès Jaouich

“Through this process, every member of the team was there for him,” Agnès recalls. “Whether responding to his questions or his discomfort during treatments, they always had a positive and encouraging approach.”

Rémy surrounded by family on Father’s Day weekend 2023.

The experience also reinforced her feelings about the importance of research at The Ottawa Hospital. “I lost both of my parents to cancer, and they both passed away at a young age. The difference between my parents’ cancer treatments and Rémy’s was like night and day. One can see how important research and innovation are for treating cancer and how donations can make an impact.”

As Rémy’s last visit to the hospital yielded no signs of cancer, Agnès and Rémy found themselves embracing life with renewed vigor. “After the treatments, he has gone back to a normal way of life,” Agnès shares.

For them, The Campaign to Create Tomorrow isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it is about creating a future where every patient receives the care and compassion they deserve.

Thanks to our monthly donors, like Agnès and Rémy, we continue to see breakthroughs in research and care that once seemed unachievable become the healthcare we count on today.

Categories:

Published: March 2024

Former Cognos executive Rupert Bonham-Carter’s life took an unexpected turn during a visit to Florida, when a fall resulted in a dislocated shoulder. After having his shoulder relocated at a Florida hospital far from home, Rupert cut his trip short and headed back to Ottawa — and to the Emergency Department at the Civic Campus where plans were made for shoulder surgery.

But his second visit, just a few days later, took a much more urgent turn after his situation worsened.

Arriving back at Emergency, Rupert recalls he was suddenly in distress and could hardly breathe. A vigilant triage nurse got him on a gurney right away, and doctors found he had a massive pneumothorax (a collapse) in his right lung. For 12 days he remained under the care of the trauma team at the Civic, undergoing treatment that saved his lung as well as receiving shoulder surgery.

Deep connection to The Ottawa Hospital

“I looked up and saw the Cognos logo. And in that moment, I felt like I had gone full circle.”

— Rupert Bonham-Carter

Rupert’s connection to The Ottawa Hospital runs deep, spanning more than two decades of life’s milestones and medical emergencies. “I’ve been there a lot in my life. I lost a finger in an accident, and The Ottawa Hospital was there to take care of me. My kids were both born there, and I had my gallbladder removed on an emergency basis. The Ottawa Hospital has been there for me for the last 25 years.”

But on that day when he was admitted, Rupert experienced a profound sense of reassurance as he was being wheeled through the Emergency Department.

“I looked up and saw the Cognos logo on a recognition plaque. And in that moment, I felt like I had gone full circle. I was part of the group at Cognos that had raised money for The Ottawa Hospital’s Legacy Campaign years ago. Seeing that logo, I felt comforted, and I was nostalgic about the Cognos community and the effort we’d made to support the hospital.”

Inspired, once again, to give back

“The Ottawa Hospital is ours. It belongs to the community, and we have a responsibility as a community to care for it.”

— Rupert Bonham-Carter

Seeing the Cognos plaque highlighting the company’s past contribution not only gave Rupert comfort, but also inspired him to get personally involved in The Campaign to Create Tomorrow. “Throughout my most recent experience, it became clear to me that The Ottawa Hospital is ours. It belongs to the community, and we have a responsibility as a community to care for it.”

With this sentiment in mind, Rupert decided to join the campaign cabinet, and he’s helping to inspire the community to support the largest fundraising campaign in Ottawa’s history. With a goal of $500 million, the Campaign to Create Tomorrow is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform healthcare by taking research to unprecedented heights and building the most technologically advanced research hospital in the country. 

Rupert recognized the potential of the campaign and became more motivated than ever to give back. “If I wasn’t sure before this experience, I was sure after. The Ottawa Hospital and the staff were there for me, and I knew I had to do something. So, I went to the first fundraising event, and I’ve made a donation. Now what I can do is try to motivate others to donate.”

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Hand-in-hand with building their business, Myers and the Mews family are building communities

You don’t have to go further than your own street, maybe even your own driveway, to find some connection in this city to Myers Automotive Group. After all, they’ve been putting people in the driver’s seat for the better part of a century. But, as their website attests, they are so much more than that — the people on their team are our friends and neighbours, and the company is an integral part of our community.

“Without community support, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

— Harry Mews

While Gordon Myers founded the company in 1942, it was Hank Mews who took over in 1972, building the business while he and his family also helped build this community.

“Our dad just felt that this was where they had made their home and grown the business. And without community support, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” says Harry Mews, who, along with his brother Rob Mews, now runs the business. They have driven its growth and are prepped to open their 17^th dealership this spring.

The Mews story has roots that are both rich in history and philanthropy. It starts with a poorly executed layup on a basketball court in Newfoundland when a young Hank Mews fell into the lap of an adoring fan whom he vowed he would marry. And he did. Phyllis and Hank would celebrate 61 years together, until Hank’s passing in 2022. They made Ottawa their home and, together, they built a successful business and a family as committed to this community as you could find.

“All businesses rely on the community for their success. And this is just a means of giving back.”

— Rob Mews

Rob says it’s an honour for them to make donations.

“I think it’s important for all businesses to help as much as they can, whether it’s donating money or donating time. You know, all businesses rely on the community for their success. And this is just a means of giving back.”

And this generosity has not gone unnoticed. In fact, Myers Automotive Group was recently recognized at the 2023 AFP Philanthropy Awards for Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist. This will come as no surprise to the thousands of athletes who have sported the Myers logo or to the food banks and community centres have benefited from the Mews family generosity. They truly are a driving force in our community.

But nowhere has their mission been more directed and their commitment more profound than with healthcare. In 2015, the Queensway-Carleton Hospital received $1 million from the Myers Automotive Group towards the Acute Care of the Elderly Unit. In 2022, five years after Hank Mews underwent valve replacement surgery, the University of Ottawa Heart Institute received $1 million from the Myers Automotive Group. And now, The Ottawa Hospital has received $2.5 million towards The Campaign to Create Tomorrow. This is the company’s largest philanthropic gift to date.

“At the end of the day, if the community can’t support something like this, well, we’re not going to have it.”

— Harry Mews

“We felt that it was important to support the effort because health is everything. We’ve seen that directly in our family,” says Harry Mews. “Our hospitals, our healthcare system, we’re so lucky to have the system we have in Canada, and it’s important that everybody recognizes that. At the end of the day, if the community can’t support something like this, well, we’re not going to have it.”

It’s a source of pride for the Mews brothers — and the entire the Myers Group — that they support the very community that has supported them over the decades. While Hank Mews may not have perfected his basketball layup, it’s clear he succeeded in instilling valuable life lessons to those close to him, that, whether it’s a million dollars or a few dollars, the act of giving on an ongoing basis is what will carry our community forward.

A CANCER JOURNEY

Years after losing his dad to cancer, Robert Nsengiyumva faces his own diagnosis

Published: February 2024

When Robert Nsengiyumva was 24, he lost his dad to liver cancer. It was a devastating time for this young man and his family. Little did he know, 25 years later, he’d face a cancer diagnosis himself — stage IV stomach cancer.

After his dad died, Robert assumed the role of father figure to his four younger siblings — two sisters and two brothers. While his mother worked to help support the family, he also stepped forward to help provide care and financial support for his family.

In the years that followed, cancer was no stranger to Robert’s family — several other members also faced a cancer diagnosis. Then in 2021, he received his own devastating diagnosis after experiencing weight loss and abdominal pain, along with nausea and vomiting. “I was 53. I was an active person, and so it was a very difficult time for me,” explains Robert.

Coming to terms with the news was also difficult for those closest to him, like his wife and circle of friends. “I will not lie; it was a like a bomb dropped — it was that shocking. When I decided to tell a few friends what was going on, they didn’t believe me at first. They thought it was a joke — then they realized it was true,” explains Robert.

Understanding a stomach cancer diagnosis

Stomach cancer — also known as gastric cancer — is a growth of cells that starts in the stomach. While it often starts in the lining, it can start in anywhere in the stomach. Thankfully, occurrences have been declining, but it is still one of the most common cancers worldwide.

Robert at the Civic Campus of The Ottawa Hospital. Photo by Ashley Fraser

According to the Canadian Cancer Society, most stomach cancers are found when the disease is advanced and remission is less likely. When it spreads past the stomach wall or into other parts of the body, it’s harder to cure.

In Canada, the five-year survival rate for stomach cancer is 29%.

Due to the stage of Robert’s cancer, treatment began right away. His medical team at The Ottawa Hospital included, Dr. Dominick Bossé, medical oncologist, and Dr. Carolyn Nessim, surgical oncologist, who were ready with a plan. The first course of action was four chemotherapy treatments. These started on October 18, 2021, and the last treatment was at the end of November. Next up would be surgery.

By early January 2022, Robert underwent surgery on his stomach, led by Dr. Nessim. “It was an isolating time. I had to live within four walls because of the pandemic. I had to be careful not to get COVID,” he says.

After a successful operation, Robert was given some time to recover before he resumed chemo treatments. By the end of April, his treatments were done and deemed a success.

“The first round of chemotherapy treatment was very difficult; I suffered a lot, but the final four were much easier. After my treatments were done, I started to improve and feel better,” explains Robert.

Here to say thank you

By July 2022, Robert returned to work part-time. “Then by August, I was back on the job as a Building System Technician in the Public Service, full time. That’s something I never thought would happen when I first received my diagnosis,” says Robert.

“I wanted to support those who faced cancer like me, and so becoming a donor to The Ottawa Hospital was an easy choice.”
— Robert Nsengiyumva

Today, he shows no signs of recurrence, and Robert is making the most of every day.

He’s also deeply grateful for the team of medical experts that were ready to care for him when he needed them most. In fact, he’s always wanted to give back in some way. “I wanted to support those who faced cancer like me, and so becoming a donor to The Ottawa Hospital was an easy choice ,” says Robert.

It’s a monthly donation that allows him to say thank on a regular basis to those who helped give him more time. “This is my way to thank everyone who cared for me. The staff, including the doctors and nurses at The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre, who treated me during my illness. I don’t know how to thank them enough, so I decided to send my donation every month, and it feels good.”

The Ottawa Hospital is a leading academic health, research, and learning hospital proudly affiliated with the University of Ottawa.

Categories: Cancer, Patient Care

Bhargavas matching $500,000 in donations to inspire hope, ensure unmatched care for generations

Category: Donors

A leading infectious disease expert drawn to The Ottawa Hospital

The “art” of philanthropy

A shared passion for giving

A legacy for the future of healthcare

Seeking expertise on orthopaedics

Looking ahead and better than ever

Deep connection to The Ottawa Hospital

Inspired, once again, to give back

Hand-in-hand with building their business, Myers and the Mews family are building communities

A CANCER JOURNEY

Years after losing his dad to cancer, Robert Nsengiyumva faces his own diagnosis

Understanding a stomach cancer diagnosis

Here to say thank you

Bhargavas matching $500,000 in donations to inspire hope, ensure unmatched care for generations

A leading infectious disease expert drawn to The Ottawa Hospital

The “art” of philanthropy

A shared passion for giving

A legacy for the future of healthcare

Seeking expertise on orthopaedics

Looking ahead and better than ever

Deep connection to The Ottawa Hospital

Inspired, once again, to give back

Hand-in-hand with building their business, Myers and the Mews family are building communities

A CANCER JOURNEY

Years after losing his dad to cancer, Robert Nsengiyumva faces his own diagnosis

Understanding a stomach cancer diagnosis

Here to say thank you

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