The cardiac intensive care unit at Southlake Regional Health Centre has been named after Polo for Heart in recognition of $1.2 million in cumulative donations raised by the annual event in support of the Newmarket hospital's regional cardiac care program.
Since 2008, Polo for Heart has supported the needs of the 10,000 cardiac patients who rely on the program each year, according to a Southlake Foundation news release. The funds raised have helped make advanced cardiac care possible, through expansions and upgrades to services and state-of-the-art technology.
“We are so grateful to Polo for Heart for their ongoing and transformational support of cardiac care,” says Dr. Charles Peniston, interim physician leader of the regional cardiac care program. “Through their investments, we have made game-changing upgrades at the hospital, including the purchase of an MRI with advanced cardiac imaging capabilities, as well as expansions of the heart rhythm program, which is nationally renowned.”
Founded in 1979 by Col. Michael C. Sifton, Polo for Heart is now spearheaded by sons Cliff, Mike and Derek Sifton, along with the support of Mike Egan, past chair Derek Watchorn and executive director for Polo for Heart Karen White, the foundation said.
More than $5.5 million has been raised since the event began for heart and stroke-related charities. In 2009, Polo for Heart committed to a $1-million pledge in support of Southlake’s regional cardiac care program.
The Sifton family has also supported Southlake events, including the gala, golf tournament and campaigns in support of men’s health, and the cancer and mental health programs.
“It’s truly an honour to see the event, founded by my father, now being supported by a new, young generation of polo players and community members, celebrated in such a meaningful way,” said Cliff Sifton, who is also a leadership volunteer on Southlake Foundation’s philanthropy cabinet and longstanding personal donor.
“We hope, through this recognition, even more people will realize the impact we can have as a community on cardiac care for our friends, our family, and even ourselves. We are so proud to support Southlake’s regional cardiac care program, and are excited to see what we can achieve at this year’s upcoming Polo for Heart event.”
“Polo for Heart ... (has) inspired thousands over that time to get involved and make donations that have ensured our communities have access to the advanced cardiac care they need, right here at Southlake. We are so grateful to them for their continued support of leading-edge care, close to home,” Jennifer Ritter, president and CEO of Southlake Foundation, said.
The 2023 Polo for Heart event takes place June 22 and 24. The event features some of the most exciting stadium polo in North America, as well as live and silent auctions, gourmet food and wines, halftime entertainment shows, shopping, a children’s village (June 24 only) and more.
Tickets for Polo for Heart as well as silent auction information can be found at poloforheart.org.
