Mara became a monthly donor to Humber River Hospital after her experience as a patient, and decided to increase her monthly gift after her father Antonio passed away.

“Back in 2007, I was brought to Humber by ambulance with massive blood clots in my lungs,” remembers Mara. “It was extremely scary. I think back on it as a near-death experience, and I am so grateful for the care I received.”

Mara stayed at the Hospital for nine days, spending her first night in the Intensive Care Unit before she was moved to another medical floor.

“My cardiologist was great, and every nurse I had was a wealth of knowledge,” she says. “What stood out to me was the kindness. If I needed a blanket, they were there. If my friends came to visit me, they were so welcoming.”

Mara has been a monthly donor to Humber River Hospital Foundation ever since her experience as a patient, playing a vital role in the future of our community by supporting ongoing initiatives to enhance quality of care at the Hospital. In fact, her commitment over the years has earned her the Foundation’s bronze Loyal Hearts pin, commemorating over ten consecutive years of giving.

Throughout the years, Humber River Hospital has continued to be there for Mara’s family. Her father Antonio received care for several health concerns at the Hospital. He admired his Urologist, Dr. Charles Radzinski, and adored his Oncologist, Dr. Martina Puchyr. Mara also spent many evenings in the Apotex Emergency Department with her dad, always appreciating the kindness he was shown.

Mara was proud to bring her mother to the COVID-19 vaccine clinic. “I thought ‘Here’s why I donate’. By donating to Humber I feel like I’m doing something for my community, and something that will benefit my family and friends when they need it.”

“In the end, he was diagnosed with Leukemia,” says Mara. “Dr. Puchyr came in during her vacation to deliver the news to him herself, which was so characteristic of the compassion and respect she had always treated him with. After he passed away I decided I wanted to increase my monthly donation to the Hospital.”

Recently, Mara was back at Humber while bringing her mother in to receive her COVID-19 vaccine.

“It was so well organized and the volunteers were everywhere to point us in the right direction,” she says. “I thought ‘Here’s why I donate’. By donating to Humber I feel like I’m doing something for my community, and something that will benefit my family and friends when they need it.”

Did you know? One of the best ways you can help Humber River Hospital during the pandemic is by becoming a monthly donor. Support Humber River Hospital as a monthly donor today.