Inspirational Gift - Elson and Joyce Miles

Retired farmers Elson and Joyce Miles have a long history of giving back to the community and this past year was no exception.

Recently, they supported York Central Hospital Foundation in a financially savvy way by donating shares to fund priority equipment projects. By transferring their shares intact, they helped to purchase life-saving medical equipment and avoided paying capital gain tax.

“Having lived in York Region our entire lives and seen the dramatic changes that have taken place, we understand how important community support is for our hospital,” they said. “It gives us great pleasure knowing we are playing a part in York Central’s efforts to improve health care for the people in our community.” 

Their gift helped to fund three priority projects: Minimally Invasive Surgery, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the Patient Pump Project.

Last night, Elson and Joyce were honoured in a donor recognition ceremony at York Central Hospital. More than 20 past and present Board members, spouses, volunteers, hospital and Foundation staff and family members attended the momentous event. There were many laughs, memories and stories shared about the couple’s long history with the Foundation as well as their involvement in the community.

Speakers included York Central Hospital President & CEO, along with three physicians who spoke about each priority project and the impact of Elson and Joyce’s gift. Stan Neal, a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors and the colleague who recruited Elson to the Foundation more than 20 years ago, spoke of their history, dedication and vision along with a few personal stories. Dr. Nicholas Voudouris, Chair of the Board of Directors, ended the speeches by thanking the couple and presenting them with a card.

The rest of the event was filled with reminiscing, a lot of laughter and photos.

In addition to being generous donors, Elson and Joyce have been involved in the Foundation for more than 20 years. Elson has served as a Board Member and held a number of executive positions including Chair of the Board. He also played a pivotal role in the $35 million Share The Spirit of Care campaign by chairing the Steering Committee.

Their involvement in the community is equally impressive. Elson was a member and past president of the Markham Pizza Project, a school-based agricultural program. He was also president of the Unionville Home Society and served the Town of Markham as a councillor. Joyce has been involved with church choirs since she was a teenager and led her own choir “Cache Chorale” for 18 years, retiring in 2010. Today, she helps out by playing the organ for occasional weddings and funerals at the Presbyterian Church in old Markham.

Thank you Elson and Joyce for your continued support and commitment to health care in Southwest York Region! The world is truly a better place with community-minded volunteers like both of you.