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Wisdom As a Way to Give Back

For Jean Sy, North York General Hospital (NYGH) is more than just a hospital — it’s been a cornerstone of her life.

“This is really my home,” she shares. “I volunteered here in high school, my parents come here, and it’s where I had surgery and my chemotherapy. The care I’ve received — especially during difficult times — has been exceptional. I feel we can always do more to support others going through similar experiences.”

This belief in giving back, particularly to a community hospital like NYGH, drives Jean’s philanthropy. While larger hospitals may have broader visibility, Jean sees immense value in strengthening local healthcare facilities that are central to their communities.

Wisdom As a Way to Give Back

For Jean Sy, North York General Hospital (NYGH) is more than just a hospital — it’s been a cornerstone of her life.

“This is really my home,” she shares. “I volunteered here in high school, my parents come here, and it’s where I had surgery and my chemotherapy. The care I’ve received — especially during difficult times — has been exceptional. I feel we can always do more to support others going through similar experiences.”

This belief in giving back, particularly to a community hospital like NYGH, drives Jean’s philanthropy. While larger hospitals may have broader visibility, Jean sees immense value in strengthening local healthcare facilities that are central to their communities.

A Second Home in Times of Need

Jean’s connection to NYGH stems from countless personal moments of care and comfort. Diagnosed with breast cancer during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, she continues her battle today.

“My surgery and chemotherapy have been at NYGH, and while it has sometimes been overwhelming, coming here always feels like returning to a second home. It has given me comfort during times when I needed it most.”

Jean’s family has also leaned on NYGH in critical moments: her father’s prostate cancer surgery, her sister-in-law’s C-section, her son’s emergency stitches, and her husband’s grandmother’s palliative care.

During her own treatment, caregivers like Dr. Paula Fishman and Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner Mova Leong provided unwavering support, adapting to virtual consultations and ensuring seamless care during COVID. Acts of kindness, like a technician comforting her when she broke down during a biopsy, have left a lasting impression.

Maximizing Your Giving

As a financial professional with a long career in training advisors and financial planning, Jean knows how to make charitable giving impactful.

“There’s a misconception that giving back requires a large amount, but that’s not true. Whatever you can give — small or big — makes a difference. And with a bit of financial savvy, you can often give more than you realize.”

She highlights the benefits of donations-in-kind, especially for those with investments outside registered accounts like RRSPs or TFSAs.

“If I have $1,000 in shares, selling them might trigger capital gains tax. But donating those shares directly to NYGH can avoid the tax on the gain and provides a tax credit for the full value. That’s a win-win.”

Jean also notes recent tax changes that make now an ideal time to consider giving.

“There’s talk about higher tax rates on significant capital gains. By donating in-kind, you may be able to avoid those taxes entirely while supporting a cause that matters to you.”

Her advice? Start by speaking with the NYGH Foundation.

“Many assume hospitals are fully funded by the government, but that’s not the case. The Foundation can show how your contribution—no matter the size—can make a real impact.”

Showing Gratitude Through the Say Thanks Program

In addition to her financial contributions, Jean champions the power of gratitude. Through the Foundation’s Say Thanks program, she recognizes individuals who made a difference during her care.

“The best way to show gratitude is to name someone who stood out,” she explains. “Recognition, especially among their peers, means so much. I’ve acknowledged my oncologist, some incredible nurses, and even volunteers and pharmacists who went the extra mile.”

Jean’s passion for giving back is rooted in her own experiences and a desire to inspire others. Whether through thoughtful financial planning or heartfelt acts of recognition, her story is a testament to how gratitude can create lasting impact.

Would you like to support patients and their families at North York General? Donate today to help fund our most urgent needs including upgraded equipment, enhanced care spaces and innovation across NYGH:

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The content shared in this blog is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please speak with your professional advisors for official advice.

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