Meet Matthew Downs

Matthew is a Buyer at North York General Hospital (NYGH) and the latest winner of the hospital’s staff lottery. We want to showcase the exceptional work that our dedicated staff do every day and featuring our lottery winners is the perfect opportunity to shine a light on their work. Find out more about Matthew below:

Where do you work in the hospital?

I work in the Purchasing department.

What do you do at the hospital and what does your role entail?

I’m a buyer. I am responsible for ordering medical equipment (such as X-ray and CT machines), arranging service contracts, and ordering basic supplies for the hospital — everything from needles to personal protective equipment (PPE). As you can imagine, it’s been especially busy ordering PPE supplies during the pandemic.

Why did you decide to work at NYGH?

I started working part-time for the hospital when I was 18. I worked as a team attendant in the Medical Imaging department for 10 years, assisting doctors and nurses during procedures. Then I got a job in the purchasing department five years ago. I have literally grown up at the hospital and people here are like family to me.

What has been your most memorable moment at NYGH?

When I worked in the Medical Imaging department, sometimes patients would come in who were incredibly scared of a test or procedure. I was able to listen to them and calm their fears. They were so appreciative that I was able to provide them with reassurance.

What do you like about working at NYGH?

I get to work with a great group of people and that is so important in a job. Sometimes you have tough days, but the relationships you have with colleagues help get you through those times. Also, the hospital is one of the best in the country. It’s no surprise that for the third year in a row, Newsweek Magazine has recognized our excellence by naming us one of the top 100 hospitals in the world and one of the top 5 in Canada.

Do you have a hobby that you like to do outside of work?

I enjoy woodworking. I’ve made benches, garden boxes and picture frames, both for myself and friends. I like being able to make these items instead of paying for them. Usually, I also keep active by playing soccer, hockey and baseball, although a back injury has sidelined me for the past two years.

Why did you decide to join the staff lottery, besides the chance of winning?

Joining the staff lottery gave me a chance to win and support a good cause at the same time. It was a way to give back to the hospital.

What do you plan to do with your winnings?

I just bought a new house so a lot of the winnings will go towards renovations. I am also saving for a trip when we can finally travel again. Ideally, I’d like to go the United Kingdom, but I may take a tropical vacation first.