Annual Report 2021 - 2022
Planting the Seeds
Every day at the foundation, we experience tiny moments of change. Or perhaps it would be more appropriate to say, moments of change that seem small.
Yet, over time, these moments, these acts of charity, are impossible not to notice. That is, a $20 gift here or a nominal monthly pledge there, has the power to change the course of our healthcare.
It’s important to recognize the tree for the seed it once was, and we never lose sight of what our donors are doing—planting the seeds of change.
The Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation has the honour and privilege of observing the power of these seeds that, with the right nurturing, grow tall and mighty.
The Cavarzan Chair in Mature Women’s Health is a wonderful example of this. Starting with one gift and a clear purpose, we now support research and progress that stretches far beyond our lifetimes.
Looking elsewhere throughout the foundation and our many centres of excellence at the Royal Alex Hospital—the Lois Hole Hospital for Women, CK Hui Heart Centre, and Eye Institute of Alberta—we see evidence of many donors’ gifts that have grown over time and led to monumental improvements in how we deliver care: new and expanded programs to support some of our community’s most resilient populations, such as pregnant people experiencing homelessness or those seeking more permanent housing, new programs and software to improve care for high-risk obstetrical patients and babies, more efficient monitoring and resuscitation tools for cardiology patients; new diagnostic cameras and treatment pathways for those experiencing ocular stroke or retinal issues, and more.
And while the majority of donations do not carry their own official titles or lead to endowments, cumulatively they create a network of support for our community, not unlike a forest consisting of an entire interconnected ecosystem of living things—all working together in harmony.
As you read through this annual report, you will discover powerful and heartfelt stories of growth and transformation, made possible by donors like you. Hopefully you shall see—as we do—how a single seed planted by your generosity can take root and grow into something that lasts and endures, providing shelter and bearing fruit for the good of many.
On behalf of our foundation and the hospital we support, thank you for your transformative giving. The seeds of transformation sown by our donors truly shape the trajectory of care for the hundreds of thousands of people who arrive at our hospital campus every year.
Sharlene Rutherford, BPA, MBA
President & CEO
Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation
George Coon, FCPA, FCMA, ICD.D, CFP
Chair of the Board
Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation
What's Inside
Blown from Afar, Two Remarkable Seeds Leave Their Mark
The naming and celebration of a Patron is a rare and special act. The Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation had not named a Patron for almost ten years...
Reconciling Care for Indigenous Women Here and Everywhere
Every patient who comes to the campus of the Royal Alexandra Hospital deserves to be treated with respect, and for the patient’s way of knowing...
Drawing the Poison of Opioids Out of Our Soil
There is a poison that has been making its way across our country, one that has seeped into the soil here in our community and harmed our families for far too long: the poison of opioids...
Nurturing Lindsay’s Legacy
Lindsay McGilvery was not an easy person to forget. Known as a “gentle giant” with a playful sense of humour and a generous spirit, Lindsay...
Digging Deeper for “Bridge Healing” to Take Root and Provide Shelter
Every year, over 26,000 individuals experiencing homelessness visit Alberta’s Emergency Rooms, with many of them coming through the Royal Alexandra Hospital.
Five Years of Impactful Growth
The Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society recently celebrated five years of life-changing support for the Lois Hole Hospital for Women...
A Change of Heart
John Beatson will be the first to tell you he used to suffer from a form of “White Coat Syndrome”—an aversion to visiting the doctor’s office...
Growing a Far-Reaching Ecosystem of Research and Support for Eye Health
In the lab of Dr. Ian MacDonald, Interim Director of the Eye Institute of Alberta and the inaugural holder of the Royal...
Progress Activated and Fractures Identified in Alberta Women’s Health Foundation’s Inaugural Year
In its inaugural year the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation began work on its mission to effect...
Blown From Afar, Two Remarkable Seeds Leave Their Mark
The naming and celebration of a Patron is a rare and special act. The Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation had not named a Patron for almost ten years, but that changed this past June when the Foundation proudly announced the appointment of Hon. Patron to Lt. Governor Salma Lakhani and His Honour Dr. Zaheer Lakhani.
In the history of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, only three individuals have been named Patron. Long-time donors William K. and Mary Jo Robbins were named Patrons in 2007 for their transformational philanthropy and philanthropist, former board member and former board chair Dale Sheard was named Patron in 2014 for her leadership in bringing the province’s only dedicated women’s hospital—Lois Hole Hospital for Women—to life.
Reconciling Care for Indigenous Women Here and Everywhere
Every patient who comes to the campus of the Royal Alexandra Hospital deserves to be treated with respect, and for the patient’s way of knowing and being to also be respected and valued.
An unfortunate truth came to the foundation’s attention some time ago—our Indigenous brothers and sisters encounter many barriers in accessing healthcare systems here in Edmonton, and elsewhere.
These barriers stem from ongoing trauma and social determinants of health typical of colonization. Many point back to racism and discrimination.
Drawing the Poison of Opioids
Out of Our Soil
There is a poison that has been making its way across our country, one that has seeped into the soil here in our community and harmed our families for far too long: the poison of opioids.
Nurturing Lindsay’s Legacy
Lindsay McGilvery was not an easy person to forget. Known as a “gentle giant” with a playful sense of humour and a generous spirit, Lindsay was always trying to make people smile and feel included. “He had the best laugh,” remembers his life-long friend, Lucy. “When he was laughing, he would just glow.”
Lindsay’s positivity was especially notable despite a lifetime of hardship and struggle. Due to an injury that left him unable to work, Lindsay endured periods of instability, including precarious housing situations that left him without a home. Despite having few material possessions, he was always the first one to share with others what he did have. “He was so compassionate. Always thinking about other people. He would literally give you the shirt off his back and the shoes off his feet if he saw someone needed it. He was just that kind of person,” Lucy said.
Digging Deeper to Provide Shelter
Every year, over 26,000 individuals experiencing homelessness visit Alberta’s Emergency Rooms, with many of them coming through the Royal Alexandra Hospital. Sadly, following these visits, none of these people are provided with housing.
As such, there is no end to the cycle. A person experiencing homelessness visits the ER, is discharged back into homelessness, and often, sooner or later, returns to the ER.
Thank you from
Senior Site Leadership
Thank you, donors, for another year of making an incredible difference at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. In the past year, our team of physicians, midwives and staff have continued to grow and adjust their practices to provide exceptional patient care despite the pandemic-induced pressures and uncertainty.
We want to share our immense gratitude for the support donors have provided, as your support makes the transformation of our care practices possible. We know that each of you has felt the same uncertainty we faced here at the hospital, yet you continued to show your support and did so at unprecedented levels, and for that, we could not be more grateful.
Your contributions are the seeds that help us achieve more, and big or small, they make an incredible difference. You are providing new, advanced equipment and technologies that help patients get home faster and recover with fewer side effects. You support patient and provider care essentials and give critical dollars that support research and innovation that allows for future change and growth in our clinical care practices.
Quite simply, we could not achieve these new levels of care without you. Thank you for your support once again.
Sincerely,
Janie Clink, RAH & SCH
Senior Operating Officer
Dr. Colin Peterson, MD, CCFP(EM), FCFP
Interim Facility Medical Director, RAH
Five Years of Impactful Growth
The Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society recently celebrated five years of life-changing support for the Lois Hole Hospital for Women.
Since its inception in 2017, the Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society has raised over $750,000 for critical medical equipment and programs for the Lois Hole Hospital for Women. This group of dedicated community supporters has impacted the tens of thousands of women and their families who rely on the hospital each year.
New Operating Room Allows for Further Advances in Women’s Healthcare
After years of advocacy and fundraising for an operating room dedicated specifically to women’s health, this specialised operating room finally opened its doors inside the Lois Hole Hospital for Women – to much excitement and enthusiasm. Equipped with brand-new, cutting-edge technology, this state-of-the-art operating room allows care providers to serve a higher volume of patients, resulting in lower wait times and shorter hospital stays.
A Change of Heart
John Beatson will be the first to tell you he used to suffer from a form of “White Coat Syndrome”—an aversion to visiting the doctor’s office. An aversion that, in part, stemmed from his 34-year-long career as an officer with the Toronto Police Service and the Edmonton Police Service.
“As an officer, most of the time when you visit the hospital it’s because someone is dead, dying or in distress,” he explained.
John held this view until he experienced a life-changing medical emergency that would have killed him if it weren’t for the medical professionals at the CK Hui and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Emergency Department…
Growing a Far-Reaching Ecosystem of Research and Support for Eye Health
In the lab of Dr. Ian MacDonald, Interim Director of the Eye Institute of Alberta and the inaugural holder of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation’s Research Chair in Ophthalmology, there is a unique and far-reaching study taking place. It is focused on a common eye condition called age-related macular degeneration.
According to the Canadian Ophthalmological Society, “age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most common eye diseases to cause vision loss after age 60, affecting nearly 2 million Canadians and accounting for 90 per cent of new cases of legal blindness in the country.”
Of the two forms of AMD (“dry,” and the less common “wet”) there is sadly little in the way of treatment. For dry AMD, there are no current treatments, and the only option for wet AMD is injections to treat the blood vessels under the retina… uncomfortable, to say the least.
Progress Activated and Fractures Identified in Alberta Women’s Health Foundation’s Inaugural Year
In its inaugural year the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation began work on its mission to effect change and close the gap on the disparities in women’s health and womens’ health research. The first significant milestone in the Foundation’s pursuit came in the form of its first thought leadership report, “Finding the Fractures: The Pandemic, Women’s Health Disparities, and the Path to Equity.”
The province-wide survey was created to measure the pandemic’s impact in the following areas: work-life, physical health, mental health, stress, and family dynamics.
"We Are Not Equal"
International Women’s Day 2022 marked one-year of impact for the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation and with it the launch of a campaign to forge the path to women’s equality and #BreakTheBias.
In the spirit of the day—and to celebrate the one-year anniversary, as well as all of the progress that’s been made to improve the state of women’s health in our province—we are thrilled to share the inspiring and eye-opening video entitled “We Are Not Equal.”
Everything’s Coming Up Rosies
On September 24th, 2022, at the 48th annual AMPIA Rosie awards, the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation’s “We Are Not Equal” video won the award for the category of “Best Promotional Production.”
The video was honoured for its depiction of the many instances where women face biases, as well as how they deserve more recognition, respect, and, of course, equality.
Board of Directors
What does “Seeds of transformation” mean to you?
Alain Moore, Director
The seeds of generosity make a positive difference every day at the Royal Alex. For me, seeing how the Royal Alex and its amazing team of healthcare professionals provide care well beyond Edmonton is the most astounding. Whether it’s patients from Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray, Vermillion, the Northwest Territories and many other places, it shows those seeds grow into something powerful and far reaching to help so many.
B.Sc, M.D., FRCP(C), FCAR
Dr. Bill Anderson, Director
My relationship with the Royal Alex has truly been a family affair. Over the last century my grandfather, father, sister, brother-in-law and I have spent many years working at and supporting the hospital and its patients. The spirit of the hospital and all its staff continues to grow every year, adding programs and services to support our patients. A clear example is the Foundation-funded PET/CT scanner—a small idea from one of our radiologists that grew into a fully functioning PET program serving Northern Alberta. My grandfather and father would be astounded to see how far we have come, and I am so proud to see how far we can go.
Bhupinder Lalh, Director
The Royal Alexandra Hospital is the busiest hospital in Western Canada and has pioneered numerous innovations right here in our city. Its amazing work—sustained through donor dollars—nurtures forward-thinking patient care, advanced research, and cutting-edge technology. This hospital plays a critical role in building a strong, flourishing community today and for the future.
CPA, CA
Carlie Persson, Director
It is truly rewarding to be part of such an amazing organization. I am continuously awed and inspired by the support of our donors and the transformational work of the foundation, making a difference in our community and in women's health.
FCPA, FCMA, ICD.D
Dan Lefaivre, Vice Chair
I am inspired and grateful for our donors who provide the fertile ground supporting research, equipment, and critical care programs. It is through your generosity that the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation can continue to focus on improving the lives of our community members who depend on the Royal Alexandra Hospital every day.
Dianne Balon, Director
Since my involvement with the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation (RAHF) and the Lois Hole Hospital Women's Society (LHHWS), I've seen great advancements in both the national and international recognition of women's health research, particularly with the Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI). While we still have a long way to go, every step we take toward improving women's health is instrumental in creating positive changes with long-lasting impacts.
K.C.
Fausto Franceschi, Director
I grew up within a few blocks of the Royal Alexandra Hospital which is where both of my children were born. Together with countless donors and contributors I am proud to support MY hospital and its incredible staff in the provision of compassionate and innovative care and services which has improved the lives of so many people across Northern Alberta and beyond.
FCPA, FCMA, ICD.D, CFP
George Coon, Chair
During my time on the Board, I have seen many seeds of ideas go from concept to success—like the Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society, which recently celebrated its five-year anniversary. The determination of two key board members to make a difference has helped build a community that's inspired us all.
We can never take these seeds for granted and as such, our board is working to create a fertile environment for their growth and development. As we look around at each other, what are the next great seeds we can plant together to support our hospital?
Justin Archer, Director
All three of our kids were born at the Alex, so I feel a deep personal connection to the hospital as well as an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This is where the highlights of my life came into the world, and where the branches of our family tree began to grow. Through my involvement with advocacy work for the Alex, I learned how large a role it plays not just in Edmonton but in Western and Northern Canada's health system. It is an honour to be involved in supporting the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation as a member of the Board.
Lisa Diamond, Director
I am incredibly honoured to be involved with the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation and to offer support to this wonderful organization. Growth in technology, the vast opportunities in medical research and the latest advances in equipment together lead to better patient experiences on the Royal Alex’s campus. The support of our dedicated donors and volunteers allows the entire hospital campus to thrive and bloom.
BA, CIP, CRM
Paavo Montandon, Director
I have witnessed three generations of women being misdiagnosed and mistreated by antiquated and misinformed healthcare systems. Ignored or misunderstood symptoms, improper drug protocols and systemic misogyny caused unnecessary suffering and poor outcomes. In research, treatment, care and education, the Royal Alexandra Hospital—through the Lois Hole Hospital and initiatives like the Women's and Children's Health Research institute—is having a huge impact locally, provincially, and nationally. This is what motivates me to be part of this wonderful organization.
FCPA, FCA
Paul Lanni, Director
Working alongside the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation for the last 6 years has reinforced my belief in the importance of community, and recognition that our daily actions and commitments can have a meaningful impact on the greater community around us. I have been inspired by the magnitude of the Foundation’s impact in improving outcomes for patients, in its advocacy for the hospital’s health professionals, and in its tireless commitment to improve the far reaching communities that it serves.
MD, FRCSC, CHE
Dr. Radha Chari, Director
Being a current member of the Board gives me the exciting opportunity to support the hospital where my two boys were born and where I trained and have worked for almost 35 years. I have seen many transformative changes in improving the healthcare for women over the years that would not have been possible without the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.
D.MD
Dr. Rustom Appoo, Director
The theme of "Seeds of transformation" really speaks to me as, after having both my children over fifteen years ago, I could clearly see the need for a new maternity ward/hospital. My children have since grown from small "seeds" to almost adults—as has the Lois Hole Hospital for Women.
CPA, CMA
Sally Banek, Director
My relationship with the Royal Alexandra Hospital started with being born here; I have personally experienced the exceptional care provided throughout my and my family’s lifetime. As a Board member, I am most excited to support the continually transforming services that the hospital delivers, meeting the evolving needs of our city and the surrounding area.
Q.C.
Sandra Hawes, Director
As a member of the board of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation it is inspirational to watch seeds of transformation take root making a real difference to the health of Albertans.
Victoria Burgess, Director
My connection to the hospital began through my employer's involvement in a capital campaign. I took an opportunity to tour the Lois Hole Hospital for Women, and I learned so much that day. The dedication and collaboration of the hospital physicians, staff and the Foundation team to advance research—all through the lens of improving the patient experience—was inspiring. I have been a volunteer since that day and it is hard to believe it was over 10 years ago!
B.PA, MBA
Sharlene Rutherford, President & CEO
MD, CCFP (EM) FCFP Interim Facility Medical Director, RAH
Dr. Colin Peterson, Hospital Representative
RAH & SCH Senior Operating Officer
Janie Clink, Hospital Representative
Dale Sheard, Patron
William K. & Mary Jo Robbins, Patrons
Her Honour the Honourable Salma Lakhani AOE, B.Sc., LLD (hon) and His Honour, Dr. Zaheer Lakhani CM MBChB FRCPC FACP FACC FRCP (London).
Honourary Patrons. Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Her Honour the Honourable Salma Lakhani, and His Honour, Dr. Zaheer Lakhani
As Past Chair, time and again I am inspired by fellow Foundation Board members representing the community, and by our committed Foundation Staff, who continue to give the very best of their ability, intellect, and efforts as they aspire to ensure that every single person who comes through our doors for medical support gets the best available care in the best possible environment. I share these observations as a Board Member and Past Chair, who also happens to be an active physician who is proud to work at this fine facility. Every single day I see the results of the Foundation’s continuing efforts on behalf of all of us, and for that I will always remain grateful.
A Year of Record-Breaking Growth
The Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation Board is pleased to present the Audited Financial Statements
for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022. These statements represent our fiduciary duty to report to
donors of the Foundation’s achievements in fundraising activities, investment returns, and disbursements made to the Royal Alexandra Hospital and its medical centers of excellence.
The Foundation’s hardworking teams continue to strive to achieve financial growth. The Foundation is thrilled to share that over the last fiscal year; we saw the highest fundraising and charitable gaming revenues in the Foundation’s history. A 33% increase in fundraising net revenues led to a 25% increase, in a total of over $ 11 million in community support. Our cost per dollar raised for fundraising activities (including charitable gaming net proceeds) is 23 cents (a two-fiscal year average). In addition, the Foundation’s investment portfolio also grew, showing a 25% increase since the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
A continued focus on tight control of operating expenses also contributed to overall positive financial performance in an extraordinary year as the Foundation continued adapting to ongoing waves of the pandemic.
As life began to return to pre-pandemic operations, community support for the Foundation did not falter. Despite continued financial uncertainty for many donors and corporate partners, contributions didn’t merely continue; they grew! Thank you to everyone who provides this much-needed support. Your gifts allow for the best care possible for the hundreds of thousands of patients who rely on the Royal Alexandra Hospital each year. You are each genuinely making a difference.
Vice Chair and Chair, Finance Audit and Risk Management Committee
Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation
