Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) recently suffered a data security incident perpetrated by a cyber threat actor group. While investigations are ongoing, this continues to be a safe place to donate. Mghf.ca is a secure website and our donation pages encrypt donor information to safely transmit it to a third-party database. Learn more.
A real-life romance, Mark Knodell and Erika Veh first met on Canada Day in 1999. Mark was immediately smitten and gave Erika his number.
Days later, Erika was rummaging through her old things while visiting her parents in Ottawa. Leafing through a school textbook, she caught a glimpse of a familiar face. It was none other than Mark!
Moved by the coincidence of it all, she searched for his number when she returned home. It had been scribbled on a piece of paper and stuffed in her pocket. Only the laundry had already been done, leaving just a small scrap with an area code.
Not one to give up, Erika looked in the phonebook. Finding nothing, she then tried 4-1-1 and happily discovered a listing.
On their first date, Erika and Mark went rollerblading. Dodging a potential wipeout, they fell in love instead. The pair chatted happily on the boardwalk until 4 a.m.
Twenty-five years later, Erika and Mark have never left The Beach. With two children, they’ve relied on our hospital more than once for bumps, bruises and more.
“There’s been a lot of change with the redevelopment and the new building,” says Mark. “The last time we were by, our nurses were talking about how the difference is like night and day. When you look around, people are more positive. There’s greater efficiency. And we want that forward momentum to continue.”
“The hospital has always been there for our family,” he continues. “We count ourselves very fortunate to be close to such a vital resource. And, it’s important to give back.”
“The community means a lot to us,” says Erika. “Having lived here for all this time, and raised our children here, we know it takes a village. So we want to help keep our friends and neighbours healthy, donating to Michael Garron Hospital is a great way to do that.”
Founder of Ludlow & Veh, a colourful home accessories brand, Erika generously supported our Golf Classic with an in-kind gift. At the same time, she and Mark made a generous donation to the hospital.
“Our contribution is being directed towards an area that’s near to our hearts,” says Mark. “With it, we’re supporting the Transitional Youth Program, which helps young people find the mental health support they need in a system that can be incredibly challenging to navigate.”
“The program is reducing reliance on emergency services, which means young people aren’t falling through cracks. That’s a huge win for everyone,” says Erika. “We’re excited to see the impact of our gift, and look forward to contributing further based on progress. Our family is truly proud to be of support.”
Join Mark and Erika in giving back to your community hospital to ensure that you, your family, friends and neighbours get the best possible care, close to home. Donate at mghf.ca/donate.
