Meet Doctor Maral Nadjafi, Chief of Medicine at North York General Hospital (NYGH), and a passionate supporter of the North York community.

As a doctor of internal medicine, Dr. Nadjafi gets to know patients and families on a deeply personal level and support them during difficult times – and she knows firsthand the kind of comprehensive and compassionate care provided here.

As North York General Foundation (NYGF) gears up for its annual Rally in the Ravineevent, proudly presented by Concord, she knew she had to step up for NYGH and inspire staff and community members to unite for this special day.

As the winner of Rally in the Ravine’s early bird prize, Dr. Nadjafi generously donated it back to the hospital. She explains why:

I have been at NYGH for 11 years but I am not only a doctor for this community, I am this community. I have received care here many times; both of my children where born here; and I have utilized our incredible services for past injuries.

NYGH holds a special place in my heart.

Speaking about injuries, Rally in the Ravine is not only supporting mental health, but also Orthopaedics. You have an interesting connection?

About two years ago, I signed up for Rally with the internal medicine team and one week before the event, I ended up breaking my foot!

I can attest firsthand to the treatment I received at NYGH for that injury in both our Emergency Department and Orthopaedics. It was exceptional. I will say, I was unable to participate in Rally then, but I was there virtually. This year, I am ready to take to the trails with my dedicated colleagues – who are just as passionate about this hospital as I am!

What do you love most about this annual event?

I want to be a role model for my department and bring us all together; it’s a great team-building exercise. I have not only signed up my whole family, but I have created a team called the Flu Fighters, hoping members of my department will participate. We know it is for a great cause.

Why is it important to bring our community together for this event?

We are a community hospital, we belong to this community and we serve this community. We always talk about taking care out to the community. What better way to involve and empower our community than rally them together to show support to our hospital, like our Mental Health and Orthopaedics programs and services.

It just amplifies that this is our home hospital. Let’s take care of each other.

What would you tell others thinking about signing up?

I would tell others that no contribution is too small. Every little action and every dollar is impactful.

By participating, our community can meet our health care family and build a deeper connection to their community.

I know I am looking forward to seeing many friendly faces out there!

Rally in the Ravine is taking place October 14 at G. Ross Lord Park. To learn more and to register visit rallyintheravine.ca.