Five health care professionals in southwestern Ontario have been recognized for their work in going "above and beyond" to help others.
Recipients of the Lerners Healthcare Champions award were announced this past week on April 15. Each of the recipients from London, Chatham-Kent, and Windsor were awarded $5,000 to donate to a charity of their choice.
A list of nominated individuals was narrowed down to 15 finalists and people could vote for a nominee online.
Three of the recipients are from the London region, including Dentist Dr. Kenneth Wright of the London Dental Community Alliance. Wright was nominated for his work in providing dental services to low-income individuals.
"After years running mobile clinics in various community centres, he established the London Dental Community Alliance to create a permanent full-time clinic staffed with professionals and supported by volunteers," read Wright's bio on the Learners Healthcare Champions website. He chose the Wright Clinic to receive the $5,000 funding boost.
Occupational Therapist Shannon Sinclair of NOVUS Rehab was recognized for her work in helping individuals overcome different challenges. She also organizes a local breakfast program and helps with donation drives within her community. Sinclair chose to support Neighbourhood Resource Association of Westminster Park with a donation.
Certified Critical Care Nurse Nancy Giles-McIntosh was recognized for her work during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has 34 years of experience and came out of retirement to help where possible.
"Nancy’s passion for her work earned her an RNAO Fellowship, and led her to the IMPACT Program. After the first wave, she continued work at the Carling Heights COVID Assessment Centre to support her community," read her bio. Nancy Giles-McIntosh chose to support the London Alzheimer's Society.
The president and CEO of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) was also selected as one of the recognition recipients.
Lori Marshall was nominated for her work in spearheading certain projects during the COVID-19 pandemic and keeping the public informed. Marshall has chosen the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation to receive the funding boost on her behalf. Funds donated to the foundation will go toward program innovation, equipment renewal, and modernizing facilities.
Marshal posted on Twitter, stating she was "honoured to be one of the recipients" and offered thanks to those who voted for her.
A registered pharmacist and a board member of the Windsor Regional Hospital (WRH) Foundation was also recognized for his work in raising funds to support the local hospital.
Shrenik Parikh chose to support the WRH Foundation. Parikh is a member of the India Canada Association, a group that has financially supported WRH through its annual gala.
“I’m so excited. I’m humbled to have been selected as the Lerners Healthcare Champion of Ontario, Canada” said Shrenik Parikh in a statement released by the WRH Foundation. “When I came to Canada in the year 2007, I had already instilled in me the concept of service and I was fortunate to connect with like-minded individuals.”
Nomination videos for each of the 15 finalists can be found on the Lerners' website.