Grammy legend Natalie Cole helps Humber River Regional Hospital Raise almost Half a Million Dollars

TORONTO, May 11, 2012 /CNW/ - Legendary singer Natalie Cole delivered an Unforgettable performance, helping the Humber River Regional Hospital Foundation raise almost $500,000 last evening to support the construction of the NEW Humber River Regional Hospital. The renowned performer wowed over 700 guests with breathtaking renditions of some of the songs that has made her a nine time Grammy Award winner.

Other highlights of the evening included the presentation of the first ever Humber River "No Limits" awards: created to recognize special individuals in our community who stand as extraordinary examples of Humber's vision for the future of its own organization.

Mrs. Helen Hull and her husband, the late Mr. Murphy Hull were the first honourees. "For generations the Hull family has given selflessly to their community and to our hospital. Murphy Hull's contributions to Humber River are inspiring: Director; Chairman; Donor - no aspect of our hospital - his hospital - wanted for his attention," said HRRH President & CEO, Dr. Ruben Devlin. The Hull family's $10 Million donation in support of the Hospital's robotic surgery program was singled out for special recognition.

Dr. Roberta Bondar was also honoured for challenging boundaries and pushing the edge of innovation with her work as an accomplished astronaut, physician, scientific researcher, photographer and author - all of which embody the values and ideals of Humber.

"Dr. Bondar has shown that when you are passionate in pursuit of your dream, there are no limits to how far you can go. Our hospital aspires to bring that passion to patient care every day, and the Foundation is thrilled to support them in their work," noted Heather Hurst, HRRH Foundation President & CEO.

Proceeds from the Gala will support the Hospital Foundation's campaign to raise $225 million dollars to equip the NEW Humber River Regional Hospital - North America's first fully digital hospital. The new hospital will be a place where patients are empowered to participate in all aspects of their care. In partnership with their teams of care providers, patients and families will take advantage of the technologies available to enhance the personal interactions that are the basis of great people care.

About Humber River Regional Hospital
Humber River Regional Hospital is one of Canada's largest regional acute care hospitals, serving a catchment area of more than 850,000 people in the northwest GTA. The hospital currently operates on three sites with a total of 549 beds, 3,000 staff, approximately 700 physicians and 400 volunteers. Affiliated with the University of Toronto, the hospital is home to Ontario's first Centre of Excellence for lapraroscopic bariatric surgery, Canada's first home nocturnal dialysis program and a major cancer program.

Humber River Regional Hospital is currently building North America's first fully digital hospital, one that the organization plans to make a technological and environmental showcase. Learn more at www.hrrh.ca.

Lori D'Amore
Communications and Marketing Officer
Humber River Regional Hospital Foundation
(e) [email protected]
(t) 416-249-8111 ext. 3985