Women are making the difference in Quebec's fight against coronavirus

With the fight against COVID-19 still in full swing, a comprehensive COVID-19 campaign launched by the Jewish General Hospital Foundation is seeking out $5 million in the hopes of making a big dent against the virus's impact.

The campaign has already eclipsed 20% of their goal as three female Quebec philanthropists have donated a combined $1.3 million: Dr. Sharon Azrieli CQ, Sophie Desmarais, and Lisa Mierins.

“I honestly believe in this idea, and if the community likes it too, I ask that they give generously. I will match whatever additional amount is raised up to $500,000,” said Montreal born-and-raised opera singer and creator of the Azrieli Music Prizes, Dr. Sharon Azrieli.

"In our tradition, we believe strongly in the proverb - Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. I conceived of the Creative Space with this in mind. Not only will the JGH be able to prototype ventilators now but once they have helped battle COVID-19, they will be able to create other critical equipment for the future," Dr. Azrieli continued, speaking of the first-in-Quebec space she personally made possible.

For her part, Sophie Desmarais has donated a $500,000 gift towards COVID-19 research at the Jewish General.

“The Jewish General Hospital is one of the top hospitals in Quebec, and when they informed me of these projects, I immediately decided to get involved. I am compelled to support our hometown research and expertise in the face of this global pandemic. We are all in this together," said Ms. Desmarais.  "Together we will get there."

Ms. Lisa Mierins donated $250,000 of on behalf of the Mierins Family Foundation, funding which will go to immediate COVID-related equipment needs of the hospital. “It is not an option to do nothing," she said of the matter.

The $5 million fund is set to go to high impact research such as measures to reduce the time and space required to diagnose COVID-19, health programs, and critical resources such as ventilators.

“The JGH is part of a global community and there are no borders when it comes to COVID-19. We are striving to strengthen efforts in the face of this virus. These three women and those who join them will change the course of this worldwide pandemic saving thousands of lives,” said Bram Freedman, President and CEO of the JGH Foundation.