Woodstock Hospital Foundation receives $1 million

WOODSTOCK - August 22, 2008 - The Woodstock Hospital Foundation is pleased to announce a $1-million gift from business leader and philanthropist, Ted Rogers, President and CEO of Rogers Communications Inc.

Made in memory of his mother, Velma Melissa Taylor, who was born and raised in Woodstock, this tremendous donation from Mr. Rogers will help to fund the implementation of an automated medication system in the new hospital.

"We are very grateful for Mr. Rogers generous donation," said Terry Thompson, Chair, Woodstock Hospital Foundation. "With a new hospital on the horizon, we are pleased to receive support in updating our technological and equipment needs."

"We are delighted," said Natasa Veljovic, President and CEO, Woodstock General Hospital. "This gift will support us in providing the families in our community with the best possible medical care."

A 39,000 square foot wing of the soon-to-be-built hospital will be named in honour of Mr. Rogers' mother. The three-floor wing will house the Pharmacy Department and Chemotherapy Suite, together with Diabetes Education on the lower floor, with the main and upper floors housing acute patient beds, including the Palliative Care Department.

"My mother was always a great inspiration to me. She encouraged me to pursue my dreams and the success I have had in life is in no small part due to her," said Ted Rogers. "Giving to the community in which she was raised was the most fitting way I could think of to honour her memory and to recognize the Taylor family."

"This is such a great gift" said Glen McDonald, Chair, Board of Trust. "The hospital is in need of equipment to sustain day-to-day activities, in addition to the emerging needs of our soon-to-be-built hospital."