As I approach my 65th birthday, I’ve decided to celebrate in a way that’s both bold and deeply personal—by shaving my head to raise funds for local cardiac care. Heart health isn’t just a cause to me; it’s my reality. I’ve survived three heart attacks, each one a reminder of how critical it is to have access to life-saving cardiac care. But my connection to this cause runs even deeper— heart disease has impacted my family for generations; in fact, my father passed away in 1967 from a heart attack.

Especially after my most recent heart health scare last year, I know firsthand how vital it is to have top-quality cardiac services right here in our community. By shedding my hair, I hope to raise awareness and inspire generosity toward a cause that has shaped my life.

Every dollar I raise will go directly the Cardiac Centre of Excellence at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, ensuring that critical cardiac care remains accessible to those who need it most.

I am asking for your support—not just for me, but for all the families who depend on local cardiac care. By making a donation in honor of my milestone birthday, you’re helping to save lives, equip our hospitals, and keep our community heart-strong. Join me in turning this brave act into lasting impact.

Here are 5 reasons to support Cardiac Care at the Royal Jubilee:

1. We all know someone who has been touched by heart disease - like me!

2. Each year, generous donors fund 40% of the equipment needs in our hospitals. You can feel proud knowing that every dollar you donate will stay right here, in our community.

3. The Royal Jubilee Hospital is ranked #3 in all of BC, we are fortunate to have this resource in our community. Your support will help keep our Cardiac Centre a national leader.

4. Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals are the referral sites for all 885,000+ Vancouver Islanders.

5. More than 200,000 Vancouver Islanders receive Cardiac Assessments at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals each year.

Learn more at: www.victoriahf.ca/cardiac-care/