Richmond Hill, ON (June 3, 2019) – On June 2, Mackenzie Health Foundation hosted its 5th annual Ride for Health presented by CIBC and raised a record-breaking $350,000 – hitting a new milestone of $1 million raised since the event’s inception in 2015. Funds raised support Mackenzie Health Foundation’s $250-million Exceptional Care Belongs Here campaign to build and equip the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital and enhance care at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital. To date, Mackenzie Health Foundation has raised $120 million towards its $250- million Exceptional Care Belongs Here campaign goal, which represents the community share of the overall $1.6 billion project.
The 25/50/75/100-kilometre ride through picturesque York Region began at Copper Creek Golf Course in Kleinburg sponsored by CIBC, PFAFF, Nature’s Emporium, TACC Construction, KPMG, Forest Contractors and many more.
For the second consecutive year, Carlo DeGasperis, captain of Team A-TACC, took the top male fundraiser/top fundraising team title, raising over $100,000. The top female fundraiser was Lee Zanetti who raised over $10,000. Second place was presented to Forest Contractors who raised $28,600 and Guinness Group came in third, raising $14,725. Participants and attendees also heard the inspirational stories of keynote speaker, Jeff Adams. For Jeff, a wheelchair is a vehicle for success. This five-time Paralympian and six-time World Champion in wheelchair sports is living proof that focus, determination and spirit are the keys to achieving “gold medal” dreams.
The 2020 Ride for Health is set for June 7, 2020.
QUOTES
“I’m proud of the incredible and inspiring leadership from our cyclists, volunteers, planners and participants who’ve helped make this Ride for Health one of our most exciting and memorable years yet. The enthusiasm and generosity of our community helps us bring the best possible care close to home for all the families of today and tomorrow, when they need us most.” – INGRID PERRY, PRESIDENT AND CEO, MACKENZIE HEALTH FOUNDATION
“Ride for Health is one of my favourite community events. I feel privileged to be part of the wonderful team raising funds for a very special project in our community. Our ultimate goal is to establish a world-class facility to provide health care to our fellow citizens. This is made possible through fundraising activities including great events like this. The Mackenzie Health team of volunteers and the Ride committee have been outstanding in making this event such a great success. Thank you to the community for your continued support.” – DOMENIC GURRERI, RIDE FOR HEALTH CO-CHAIR & PRESIDENT, FOREST CONTRACTORS
“This year’s event was our most impressive one yet, thanks to our incredible community, planning committee and every donor, rider, sponsor and volunteer. Celebrating this record-setting success is a major accomplishment. I’m proud to help lead this event because it brings to life our ultimate goal of bringing world-class health care to southwest York Region and beyond.” – MARK ROCCATANI, RIDE FOR HEALTH CO-CHAIR & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CIBC
– 30 –
About Mackenzie Health and Mackenzie Health Foundation
Mackenzie Health is a dynamic regional health care provider which includes the existing Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital and the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital, as well as a comprehensive network of community-based services. In March 2017, the organization received its second consecutive award of Accreditation with Exemplary Standing from Accreditation Canada for its commitment to safety and quality patient care. This is the highest rating a Canadian health care provider can receive. Guided by a vision to create a world-class health experience, Mackenzie Health has an unrelenting focus on the patient and is dedicated to patient needs now and in the future. With over 500,000 residents in Southwest York Region, Mackenzie Health is proud to serve one of the fastest growing and most diverse communities in Canada. For more information, please visit mackenziehealth.ca
The Mackenzie Health Foundation is spearheading the Exceptional Care Belongs Here campaign – the largest fundraising drive ever led by a community hospital in Canada – which is committed to raising $250 million in community contributions toward the total $1.6-billion project cost of the new Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. Since 1977, Mackenzie Health Foundation has raised more than $142 million for capital projects, medical equipment, technology and educational opportunities for Mackenzie Health. For more information, please visit mackenziehealthfoundation.ca
Media contact:
Michelle Stegnar
Senior Communications Consultant, Mackenzie Health
905-883-1212 ext. 7484 | michelle.stegnar@mackenziehealth.ca