Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?

My name is Michelle Tafler and I’m the Vice President of Marketing & Donor Engagement at Humber River Health Foundation. I joined the team in April 2023.

What led you to joining the team at Humber River Health Foundation?

“My daughter had her tonsils and adenoids removed here the first year the Hospital was open. I remember feeling so grateful that I was able to track her throughout surgery with messages I received from the Hospital using STERIS RealView,” says Michelle.

I first become involved with Humber River Health when the Communications team hired the marketing agency I was at, to engage in some work with the Research Institute. As the lead on this project, I had the opportunity to tour the Hospital, which allowed me to gain a deep understanding and interest of its numerous initiatives and operations.

On a personal note, my daughter had her tonsils and adenoids removed here the first year the Hospital was open. I remember feeling so grateful that I was able to track her throughout surgery with messages I received from the Hospital using STERIS RealView. The staff we worked with were very kind, patient, and compassionate. Overall, it was a positive experience from start to finish.

Both of these scenarios greatly influenced my interest in joining the team at Humber River Health Foundation.

Why are you passionate about Humber?

Humber River Health has had many firsts in numerous fields. From new programming to impressive technological advancements, I truly believe in Humber’s innovative approach to healthcare. I’m very proud to work here, and I feel it is my personal mission to spread awareness about these achievements and the exceptional quality of care the hospital provides.

If our ultimate goal is raising the bar on healthcare in this world, let alone in this country, it is important that people see, understand, and support the great work that’s done here.

“One area that I am particularly passionate about is our Child & Adolescent Mental Health Program,” says Michelle. “The Hospital’s unique approach to addressing these needs is something I find highly commendable.”

What are some of your favourite initiatives at Humber?

One area that I am particularly passionate about is our Child & Adolescent Mental Health Program. This interest is rooted in my personal experiences and challenges associated with accessing mental healthcare. The Hospital’s unique approach to addressing these needs is something I find highly commendable.

I also find some of our technological initiatives fascinating, especially the Robotic Surgery Program, which has a profound impact on patient care. Another program close to my heart is Gifts of Gratitude, which beautifully connects patients with their caregivers.

What are some of your favourite technological initiatives at Humber?

When I look at our Robotic Surgery Program, I can’t help but be proud of it and speak to the accolades of it.

My dad had two knee replacement surgeries, neither of them using robotics, and he had long recovery times and setbacks. I wish I would have known about the ROSA Knee System and Humber’s SKiP Program. The notion of being able to have a transplant in under twenty-four hours and be walking around the next day is mind blowing. It truly is amazing that we offer that surgery here.

“Outside of work, I’m an avid supporter of my children’s sports activities (I’m their number one sports fan!). I also enjoy hiking, long walks, and being out in nature,” says Michelle.

Right now, our Robotic Surgery Program is 100% donor funded! We have had some truly remarkable results and expect that the efficiencies we are creating here at Humber and for our healthcare system will lead to more government funding.

What do you love to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I’m an avid supporter of my children’s sports activities (I’m their number one sports fan!). I also enjoy hiking, long walks, and being out in nature.

What inspires you to do the work you do?

My motivation in my role stems from a deep-seated desire to improve healthcare delivery and enhance patient experiences. Looking ahead, I want to raise awareness about the incredible work we do at Humber and to help drive further innovation in healthcare.