NEWS RELEASE
SOUTHLAKE REGIONAL HEALTH CENTRE FOUNDATION
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Southlake Foundation is pleased to announce a matching gift from the Galt Family Foundation, supporting a third-party fundraising initiative in support of Southlake’s COVID-19 Action Fund.
With this fundraising boost, local senior and Southlake patient, George Markow is getting closer to his $100,000 fundraising goal – now moving two steps at a time.
Determined to do something to give back in the face of this pandemic, the 99-year-young Second World War veteran set a personal mission to raise funds and awareness by walking 100 kilometres and raising funds to support the response to COVID-19 before his 100th birthday next spring.
Funds raised will be shared between Southlake Regional Health Centre – George’s local hospital – in support of the COVID-19 Action Fund, and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.
Following a path that circles the courtyard gardens of his Newmarket retirement home, where 15 laps equals 1 km, George has already completed 95 km of his 100 km goal – though he is determined to continue until he reaches his full fundraising goal. To date, he has raised $35,721 through his GoFundMe page. With the Galt Family Foundation now generously matching gifts dollar for dollar up to a total of $100,000, he is closer than ever!
"We were touched to learn of Mr. Markow's story, the challenges he's overcome and most of all his will to give back to those who helped him,” said John Galt. “We are privileged to be a small part of what he's trying to accomplish."
“I am beyond proud, and just overwhelmed at his perseverance, determination, and drive,” said George’s daughter, Sylvia Perkins. “My dad is so grateful to everyone who has supported him already, and this matching gift from the Galt Family Foundation is definitely an inspiration for him to keep going.”
To follow George’s progress or to support his fundraiser, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/99-yr-old-walking-100-km-for-medical-research.
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