On May 27 and 28, members of the community came together at two fundraising events in support of Bridgepoint Active Healthcare, part of Sinai Health System. Bridgepoint is the only healthcare organization in Canada dedicated to improving the lives of people with complex health conditions, and funds raised from these events support connected care for some of our country’s most complex patients.
Over 200 guests came together on May 27 Fandango! Fever presented by BMO, for an evening inspired by 70s New York, in the era of dazzling disco. The night featured a gourmet dinner, silent and live auction, 70s themed entertainment and a live band. The event was chaired by Carole Grafstein and featured a video of Bernie Syron, Honorary Event Chair and former Bridgepoint patient.
“Bridgepoint is quite exceptional,” said Bernie. “I’ve never seen so many people dedicated to making someone get better. It’s a beautiful facility but it wouldn’t be much without the people running it.”
After suffering a fall which tore the tendon in his quad, Bernie Syron required surgery and was transferred to Bridgepoint for his rehabilitation. Bernie stayed at Bridgepoint for over three weeks where he underwent physiotherapy to help regain mobility in his leg. Inspired by the care he received at Bridgepoint, Bernie now supports the Changing Care program, which helps train caregivers how to help patients with the transition from hospital to home.
“Bridgepoint is striving to build a caregiver friendly environment that extends broadly from the hospital and into the community,” said Dr. Gary Newton, President and CEO, Sinai Health System. “In partnership with WoodGreen Community Services, and supported by a grant from the Change Foundation, Bridgepoint is looking at ways to change how hospital care and community services are designed and provided in order to enhance the caregiver experience and optimize health outcomes.”
Thanks to donors and the support of the community, Fandango! has raised more than $3 million for Bridgepoint since 2011.
On Sunday May 28, like-minded young professionals gathered for Recovery Brunch, to celebrate the coming of summer and raise funds for Bridgepoint. About 100 guests enjoyed brunch on the Daisho patio deck of Momofuku. The afternoon consisted of a live DJ, auction items, networking and a special appearance by Bridgepoint lead architect Greg Colucci of Diamond Schmitt Architects. The event was co-chaired by Future Sinai members Ashley Salazar and Andrea Turner.
“From the floor to ceiling windows, to the rehabilitative pool and rooftop garden, Bridgepoint is unlike any other healthcare facility in the city,” said Ashley, Future Sinai co-chair and event host. “Today, we’ll celebrate the architectural uniqueness of Bridgepoint and how it has transformed our ability to deliver the best possible health care.”
Greg Colucci led the implementation of the firm’s plans for the redevelopment of the multiple award-winning Bridgepoint Health and the repurposing of the Don Jail as the hospital’s administrative centre. At the event, Greg spoke to the multifaceted approach that was taken when designing Bridgepoint and how imperative design is to the patient experience.
Thank you to all attendees, sponsors and volunteers that supported the Recovery Brunch.