We love hearing how a grateful patient became a committed donor — that your experiences at Grand River Hospital have resulted in giving back, making others' experiences just as good (or better) is inspiring on so many levels. Recently, grateful patient turned donor Ian MacNaughton shared his journey:

"The greatest gift is time. It's a gift to a husband, father, and grandfather to spend quality time with family and prepare. You gave me that gift!

Our urgent care system is sophisticated and coordinated. Here is how it worked for me.

On Friday July 21, 2023, I contacted my family physician, Dr. Alangh, due to loss of control of my right foot. Their concern regarding possible permanent damage suggested immediate scanning only provided by emergency care.

At Emergency, Dr.Good identified a possible brain connection. The emergency scan established a brain cancer spot. Urgency was the call, and that night she coordinated with a Hamilton Health Sciences team.

Over the next four days, Dr. Phil Kowtecky coordinated the doctors, identifying the necessary testing and making decisions. Dr. Ding provided radiology advice and alerted Dr. G. Knight, our trusted Grand River oncologist for the past two years, on suggested next steps.

A special thanks to each of you. The efficiency, urgency, coordination, communication, empathy, and common sense advice was priceless. The family decision was to choose radiation under the capable direction of Dr. Ding. Our gratitude, as a family, for the professional excellence, and the 12 out of 10 top-quality service of the Grand River and Hamilton teams that leaves us in awe!"

Ian MacNaughton and his family

Are you a grateful patient who has a story to share? Please contact Janet Turner, VP, Philanthropy at janet@grhf.ca.