Leaving a Legacy of Gratitude

Gord Fraser carries with him a deep appreciation for the exceptional care he received for his type 1 diabetes at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. This gratitude, combined with an enduring commitment to giving back, has inspired a legacy gift to our hospital.

Gord Fraser and Ron Chalmers moved to Orillia in 1999 and lived in the region for a few years before settling into their home in Victoria Harbour. During their time in Orillia, Gord received excellent care for his type 1 diabetes at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Even after moving away, Gord would still drive to Orillia for his care.

The drive became difficult, especially in the winter months, and Gord was thankful when he could receive care closer to home. Despite no longer travelling to Orillia for his appointments, he is grateful for the place that supported his health and well-being.

Gord’s excellent care was one of the main reasons he and his partner of 55 years, Ron, chose to leave a legacy gift with Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. The couple is very passionate about giving back and providing support to those who need it.

Gord and Ron also know there are tax benefits to leaving a gift to a charity in their estate plan. A charitable gift in your Will can reduce the taxes owed and, in some cases, even eliminate them while leaving the same amount of money to your heirs.

When asked what advice they would give to someone wanting to support healthcare, Ron said. “People don’t always realize that hospital equipment is not funded by the government. Every piece of equipment in a patient’s room has been purchased by someone in the community.”

Gord and Ron like to live their life to the fullest. They love to travel, treat their dog Charlie just like family, and believe in giving back to the community. They are incredibly proud to be leaving a legacy gift to Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital and to be supporting the health of our communities for generations to come.

May is Leave a Legacy Month. This month, we are celebrating those that have planned to leave a legacy gift with OSMH. The Canadian government has created some exceptional tax incentives to encourage leaving an estate gift in your Will to charity. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of leaving a legacy with OSMH, please email Christine Baguley at CCBaguley@osmh.on.ca or call 705-345-6525.