Bravery of our young patients inspire $10,000 donation from Ontario's doctors to the Canadian Red Cross
TORONTO, June 9, 2017 /CNW/ - Nearly 2,000 pediatric patients and elementary students from across the province submitted drawings and personal messages to share what their 'MD means to me'.
This initiative was part of the Ontario Medical Association's (OMA) Doctors' Day campaign to celebrate the special relationship young patients have with their doctors. To recognize the contribution of Ontario's physicians and to honour the bravery of young patients, the OMA committed to donating $10,000 to the Canadian Red Cross on behalf of those who participated in this year's Doctors' Day campaign.
"Ontario's doctors are proud to make a donation to the Red Cross, especially at a time where widespread flooding has put many of our fellow Canadians in a position of need," said Dr. Shawn Whatley, President of the Ontario Medical Association. "We would like to thank all of the children who sent us their messages, as well as the schools, hospitals and health-care organizations that helped facilitate this wonderful campaign."
Hundreds of children submitted a "What my MD means to me" activity sheet with a variety of touching, funny and heartfelt messages.
Children wrote, "What my MD means to me…"
…My MD is important to me because she keeps me and my family safe and healthy. I think my MD is awesome!"
…My MD means care and effort. Every day thousands of people need help and it makes me grateful to have a doctor who takes part in such an important role."
…My doctor to me means a hero who is willing to help anyone in need. He would help me even if it meant he might get sick."
May 1st was recognized by the provincial government in 2011 as the official day of appreciation for Ontario's doctors. The date was chosen to mark the birthday of Canada's first female physician, Dr. Emily Stowe.
Ontario's doctors have a long history of advocating for the health and well-being of their patients and for the communities in which they practice. Every day, Ontario's 29,000 doctors put patients first. From hospitals to long-term care homes, and from clinics to patient's homes, Ontario's doctors make a positive difference in the lives of their patients by providing high-quality care when and where it's needed most.
"I know I speak on behalf of my colleagues when I say it is a privilege to serve the patients of this province," said Dr. Whatley. "Over the past month we've received many expressions of support and had the honour to attend events organized by local communities to say thanks to their doctors. Today is my opportunity to say thank you to all the patients we care for and to all members of the health-care system who we have the pleasure of working with every day."
Click here to view a sample of children's drawings and their Doctors' Day messages.
The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) represents more than 34,000 physicians and medical students across the province. Ontario's doctors work closely with patients to encourage healthy living practices and illness prevention. In addition to delivering front-line services to patients, Ontario's doctors play a significant role in helping shape health care policy, as well as implementing initiatives that strengthen and enhance Ontario's health care system.
SOURCE Ontario Medical Association
Amanda Philp, Director, Government Relations, Office: 416.340.2862 or 1-800-268-7215 ext. 2862, Email: [email protected]
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