Red Deer Regional Health Foundation paid tribute to a great friend of Red Deer’s hospital by naming the Pediatrics Unit in honour of Joan Donald Jr. on Thursday.
It is the first unit at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre to be named in recognition of an individual.
Donald was an influential donor and volunteer with the foundation and other community organizations that support the development of health care infrastructure and programs in Central Alberta. One of her lasting legacies was the renovation and enhancement of the Pediatric Unit.
Family and friends gathered on Thursday afternoon for the official naming of the unit.
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Her daughter Crystal Lam said the Love of Children golf tournament, which Donald founded and organized, ran for 13 years and raised about $3 million the pediatric unit.
She said pediatrics and children were her passion. Her grandchildren were definitely a source of inspiration and strength for her when she became ill.
Joan Donald Jr. died on Jan. 15, 2022 after a three-year battle with cancer.
“We’re so grateful and so honoured to have her remembered this way. I know she’d be really proud today,” said Lam after the ribbon cutting.
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Foundation CEO Manon Therriault said the unit was named after Donald to recognize her accomplishments and her kindness.
“As we come together to honour her immeasurable contributions to pediatric health care, we’re reminded of the profound impact she had on the lives of countless children and families,” Therriault said.
“When pediatric care is supported, we’re not only addressing the immediate health needs of our children, but we’re also safeguarding their future potential.”
The naming of the unit was part of the foundation’s new recognition program.
“We all know that having a unit named after an individual is extraordinary and not many will ever experience this occasion. Joan’s name will serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations in healthcare professionals, supporters and community members.”
