vital magazine

We are the philanthropic engine for health care innovation and transformation in British Columbia. Our hospitals and health care centres are able to deliver the best possible patient care because of your support. By recruiting world-class medical professionals and equipping them with the tools and technology to do their best work we are improving the health of our communities and saving lives across the province.

This magazine is a celebration of our values, to transform health care, inspire donors, and save lives.

Inside, you will find stories of honesty, hope, and humanity. Stories of our clinician-scientists and the steps they are taking to make the world a better place.

What's inside

Message from the CEO
Together, we are vital

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

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Day in the Life
The Palliative Care Social Worker

I miss seeing clients in person, being in the office, and being able to run over to VGH if someone was sent to the hospital.

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COVID-19 patient saved through VGH and UBC research

“When I was struck by the virus, within 24 hours I felt like I’d hit a brick wall. Non-stop coughing, a fever spike… I was almost unresponsive – I could barely talk. It was terrifying.”

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Health Check: 5 tips for your mental and physical wellbeing

Improve your mental and physical wellbeing with these expert tips from Dr. Silke Cresswell.

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With your support, VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation has been transforming health care in BC for 40 years with $1 billion in philanthropic funding. Join us as we look back at some of the vital projects your donations have supported.

40 Years - $1 Billion Dollars

1980
1980

Vancouver General Hospital Foundation established

Ambulance purchase marks beginning of philanthropic impact.

1989
1989

Jack Bell Research Centre opens

Located next to VGH, this research centre became home to several impactful research programs including the Stone Centre, and Immunity and Infection Research Centre.

1990
1990

VGH becomes the first hospital in BC to adopt ECMO use

This life-saving technology allows a patient’s heart and lungs to recover by taking over heart and lung function itself, while still keeping other organs functioning.

View the full timeline here.

Find out how donations make a difference.