'More than just a hospital': Hundreds run to support Southlake

Hundreds of people joined together in Newmarket this morning to run and walk in support the hospital that helps keep Newmarket, northern York Region and south Simcoe County healthy.

Nearly 1,400 participated in the Nature's Emporium Run for Southlake April 28, the biggest annual fundraiser for the Southlake Regional Health Centre. The run also kicks off a celebration of the hospital’s 100th anniversary, with events planned in the months to come.

The event run by the Southlake Foundation has raised more than $419,000 toward the $500,000 goal, with fundraising continuing to May 3.

Newmarket-area resident Dwayne Rupke ran for the first time this year and said he has had a number of surgeries at the hospital.

“I just want to give back,” he said. “They’ve treated me so well over the years and I really appreciate it."

People from all walks of life took part, including staff from the hospital itself. Nurse Amanda Vandesande said it is overwhelming to see the support for the hospital.

“Showing that the community has our support, (knowing) we have their support, it’s amazing,” she said.

Southlake Foundation president and CEO Jennifer Ritter said they are grateful to see so many people standing by the hospital.

“Your commitment to champion leading-edge care close to home is certainly worth celebrating,” she said.

Newmarket resident Kerri O’Brien said she is running for her grandfather, who is in hospital.

“It’s important to have such a great facility close to where we live,” she said, adding that it is also important to “support all the doctors and nurses that work there.”

Laura Olesen of Aurora said she likes to support the hospital, with all her children being born there.

The hospital is “community. It’s coming together. It’s helping everybody out and caring for one another,” she said.

Plenty of political dignitaries were also in attendance. Georgina Mayor Magaret Quirk said it is a hospital for residents from many communities.

“It’s great to get out and help the foundation,” she said. “Our residents come here, whether it’s cancer treatments, whether it’s heart treatments.” 

Southlake president and CEO Paul Woods said the overwhelming support the hospital receives has stood the test of time.

“I cannot thank you enough for your dedication and your enthusiasm,” he said. “Southlake is much more than just a hospital. It is a pillar of the community.”

You can donate and fundraise until May 3.