Michael's story
Before Michael Garron died from a rare form of cancer at the age of 13, he told his mother that he was afraid he would be forgotten.
“As long as I’m alive, there’s no way you will ever be forgotten,” Berna replied.
In 2015, Berna and her husband, Myron, made good on this promise by committing $50 million to the hospital where Michael was born. In honour of their son’s legacy, Toronto East General Hospital was renamed Michael Garron Hospital.
The oldest of three brothers, Michael had always dreamed of being a marine biologist. He loved science and drawing. And he is remembered for his courage, positivity, and determination.
The Garrons’ generous gift is a mother’s promise kept. Michael will never be forgotten as his name will forever be associated with extraordinary healthcare delivered with compassion.
impact of the Garron family's gift
The Garrons’ commitment was, at the time, the largest donation ever made to a Canadian community hospital. It has since allowed our team to transform care for people in East Toronto and its surrounding areas.
Myron and Berna’s remarkable generosity enables our patients to benefit from cutting-edge technology and equipment. With their support, our hospital has purchased:
- Three state-of-the-art dialysis machines, which save lives for ICU patients whose kidneys aren’t functioning properly;
- 63 advanced infusion pumps that are leveraged throughout our hospital to deliver medications and fluids intravenously;
- Two bedside ultrasound machines, which diagnose and monitor wide-ranging conditions, as well as to guide procedures such as the insertion of intravenous lines;
- 46 mechanical ventilators to support patients who need breathing assistance. As part of this, we became the first hospital in Canada to use Drӓger Evita V800 ventilators, which provide safe, individualized treatment for those requiring prolonged ventilation and intensive medical care;
- A new MRI machine for our Diagnostic Imaging Department and a CT scanner for our Stavro Emergency Department, enabling faster, more precise diagnosis for a range of health conditions; and more.
Beyond this, the Garrons created a fund to inspire community-based research and established the hospital’s first chairs, highlighting our strengths in innovation and academics. To mark special occasions, Myron and Berna treat hospital staff to delicious take-home meals to enjoy with loved ones.
Their landmark donation will continue to have a significant impact on our hospital for years to come.
Celebrating Michael’s legacy, a collection of his art is lovingly displayed in the lobby of our Ken and Marilyn Thomson Patient Care Centre.