The Honey & Barry Legacy Foundation is more than just a tribute to my parents; it’s a living testament to their values and the change they wanted to see in the world,” says Alex. “I’m honoured to continue their work and hope to make a meaningful impact.”

Alex Krawczyk, daughter of the late Honey and Dr. Barry Sherman, embodies her parents’ commitment to giving. This week, Alex took a significant step forward to continuing her parents’ legacy with a $10 million donation to Humber River Health from the Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation, which she established in 2020.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Alex is proud of her parents’ profound connection with the community and Humber. “My father took great pride in building connections with the Humber River Hospital community,” says Alex.

Over the years, Honey and Barry were strong champions of Humber River Hospital and played a pivotal role in building the new hospital. Starting in 1998, Dr. Sherman served as honorary chair for the hospital building campaign and provided the largest gift. “Through their charitable work with a variety of organizations, including Humber River Hospital, my parents exemplified the importance of giving back,” says Alex.

As a registered nurse, Alex has seen firsthand the struggles faced by many people in accessing healthcare. “Working as a nurse in the community opened my eyes to the stark realities faced by people who are often overlooked,” says Alex. “Like my parents, I believe I have a responsibility to work towards building a more equitable healthcare system.”

Through the work of her Foundations, Alex supports initiatives that address systemic gaps in healthcare access. “It is encouraging to know that Humber is committed to ensuring community members will be included in the consultation process for the reimagined Finch site,” says Alex.

Alex is determined to carry forward her parents’ vision. “The Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation is more than just a tribute to my parents; it’s a living testament to their values and the change they wanted to see in the world,” says Alex. “I’m honoured to continue their work and hope to make a meaningful impact.”

Alex’s work in the community has inspired her to pursue a master’s degree in public health. But she remains a nurse at heart. On a recent visit to the Humber River Health Reactivation Care Centre, Finch Campus, Alex played dominos with a group of patients, and her warmth and empathy shone through.

Alex is most at peace composing and recording music (a passion of hers), a process that helped her following the tragic loss of her parents. “Music is one of the ways I process grief and find strength to carry on. I hope that my music encourages others who are also struggling with loss and promotes healing,” says Alex. She was nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award in 2023 for her debut album, Le Olam.

In her journey, Alex Krawczyk stays true to her parents’ values through the Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation, striving to help others, embracing her compassionate nature, and leaving a legacy that goes beyond just giving. Humber River Health Foundation is profoundly grateful for her commitment to supporting accessible community healthcare.