President’s Letter- January 2026

I am excited to ring in a New Year at Soldiers’ with all of you. As we step into 2026, I want to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude for your support over the last year. Your commitment to healthcare has made a lasting impact on the Soldiers’ care team, patients, and their families. The future looks promising.   

2025 was a year of incredible progress. One of the most exciting milestones was Premier Ford’s announcement in May of a planning grant to build a new hospital at the preferred site of Lakehead University. This moment marked the beginning of a bold new chapter for Soldiers’. With this news and our celebration at Lakehead in the fall, together we have started giving today to build tomorrow. 

Throughout the year, the Infinite Possibilities Fund has continued to grow and contribute to the urgent needs of our current hospital while laying the foundation for the future. Each piece of equipment and life-changing moment funded by your contributions, reminds us of the strength of community. We look forward to sharing more stories of hope and innovation with you throughout the year. 

The future is bright, and together, we will shape it. Thank you for bringing comfort, care, and hope to those who need it most. Wishing you and your loved ones a year filled with health, happiness, and possibility. 

Perry Esler,
President and CEO, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation