June 5, 2000
SickKids’ Women’s Auxiliary announces funding of second research chair in five years
In a ceremony with the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Honourable Hilary M. Weston, The Hospital for Sick Children’s Women’s Auxiliary (WA) announced today a pledge to fund a second chair for the hospital. The Women’s Auxiliary Millennium Chair in Haematology/Oncology follows the WA’s unprecedented success in funding their first chair in Neonatology, which they started funding in 1995. An initial pledge of $1.5 million over ten years increased to $2-million and was raised in half the time, exceeding everyone’s expectations.
This new $2-million commitment, coupled with the significant accomplishments of the first chair, is indicative of the extraordinary efforts the Women’s Auxiliary has made in contributing to The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). The announcement falls on a landmark year for the group, now celebrating their 50th year of volunteer involvement with the hospital.
"We have completed our first chair in Neonatology in record time. What better way to celebrate our 50th Anniversary than to announce the funding of our second chair in Haematology/Oncology," said Judy Hurrell, president of the Women’s Auxiliary.
"For the past fifty years, the Women’s Auxiliary has shown a remarkable ability to contribute to the well-being of the hospital, both in terms of fundraising and volunteer support. The dedication and leadership this group has demonstrated with the completion of their first chair will guide them to success with the second," said Michael Strofolino, President and CEO at SickKids.
The Women’s Auxiliary chose a chair in this area, as many WA members volunteer their time within the haematology/oncology unit and enjoy helping in the clinic’s playroom. "Most Women’s Auxiliary members are mothers and grandmothers and we feel for every child and family who has been given the diagnosis of cancer. Through this funding we hope to make a difference in the outcome of childhood cancers," said Hurrell.
Since the formation of the Women’s Auxiliary in 1950, the group has fundraised tirelessly and provided many additional services throughout SickKids. Presently, the WA assists at the Play Park, Surgical Waiting Room, SickKids Archives, Main Information Desk, the Centre for Health Information and Promotion and in other areas, as needed. The group also operates the 5 Fifty 5 Shop and donates the proceeds to a variety of hospital programs.
For more information, please contact:
Public Affairs
The Hospital for Sick Children
555 University Avenue
Suite 1742, Public Affairs, First floor Atrium
Toronto,
ON
M5G 1X8
Canada
Phone: 416-813-5058
Fax: 416-813-5328