An exciting time at Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH) as the Foundation publically launches the $50 million Expansion Campaign.

"We are building a healthcare facility for the future and our $50 million Expansion Campaign plays a critical role in making our hospital expansion a reality," says Janet Beed, President and CEO of MSH. "Every dollar raised through the campaign will help build a facility that will ensure Markham Stouffville Hospital can continue to provide excellent quality care to our growing community."

Three years ago, Penny Wannamaker was rushed to MSH's critical care unit with a severe viral condition. Her healthcare team provided critical care and worked closely with a partnering hospital for her to receive a specific type of treatment.

"Markham Stouffville Hospital helped saved my life," says Wannamaker. "I spent several weeks at Markham Stouffville Hospital. I received exceptional care here and the team helped me start my road to recovery."

The expanded hospital will have more specialized medical equipment so patients like Wannamaker can access a wider range of healthcare services. Through the generosity of the community, the Expansion Campaign will help build Markham Stouffville Hospital's new acute care facility and purchase additional ventilators, MRIs, CT scanners and over 100 new patient beds.

"The care and compassion of the hospital staff really helped me and family get through this tough time in our lives. I couldn't be more grateful to be a part of this wonderful community," says Wannamaker.

Many community members have already stepped up and contributed to the Expansion Campaign. Donors and community groups who have already made donations attended the launch to show their ongoing support. This group is made up of a number of extraordinary individuals and families, ethno-cultural groups and corporations who have reached deep and committed $1 million and more. An honourary 'key to the hospital' will be presented to the million dollar donors in recognition of their generosity.

"Our donors are helping build more than just a hospital, they are making a difference in the lives of people and their families who depend on Markham Stouffville Hospital," says Suzette Strong, CEO of MSH Foundation. "We are truly grateful for their unwavering support."

In March 2013, the doors of the new building are expected to open and renovations to the existing building will then begin. The MSH Foundation will continue to raise funds to support the hospital expansion as renovations take place.

"This has been an incredible journey so far," says Mayor Frank Scarpitti, standing with Peter Mason, Co-Chairs of MSH Expansion Campaign. "Through the incredible support of our major donors, corporate community and the Markham Stouffville Hospital family, we have reached over 75 per cent of our campaign goal. We are excited to see the entire community come together to help us achieve $50 million."

About Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation

Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation exists to provide financial support as the hospital fulfils its mandate of providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Building a hospital is a partnership between the hospital, government and the community - each playing a significant role. All medical equipment is funded through donations from the community. Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation is raising $50 million to support the expansion of the hospital as it continues to provide excellent quality care to the community.

For more information on how to give, please visit us at http://www.msh.on.ca/foundations/msh

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