Patch Adams kick starts new
health facility for Albertans

By Lois Epp

Ken King, Reach! co-chair announced on May 13 the launch of the funding campaign for Calgary’s newest health care facility, the Southern Alberta Institute of Urology. Built exclusively with community donations, the Institute will be the largest and most comprehensive urology centre in Canada. The funding campaign kicked off with a special celebration and announcement featuring lead donors, Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman and W. Brett Wilson, MBA'85, and keynote speaker Patch Adams, one of the most engaging and celebrated doctors in North America.

Urological conditions, such as prostate cancer, are on the rise. Responding to a need they say has existed for far too long, Seaman and Wilson have each made a $5 million cornerstone contribution towards the facility, which will significantly advance urological health in southern Alberta.

“No one likes to talk about what goes on below the belt,” said Wilson, “but keeping these issues in the dark can be fatal. As prostate cancer survivors, Doc and I are pleased to help spotlight urological issues and encourage our friends in Calgary to join with us in funding this project.”

Seaman and Wilson are dedicated advocates of raising awareness about prostate cancer. They speak from experience about the importance of early screening and treatment, and of the value of having the most innovative treatment available right here at home. The institute will provide diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation for a complete range of urological issues including prostate health, bladder and kidney cancers, kidney stones, urinary tract problems, incontinence and sexual health. In addition, the institute will also focus on education and prevention for urological health.

“By consolidating services, the institute will be more patient-centred, providing continuous care and support from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation,” said Dr. Bryan Donnelly, staff urologist with the Calgary Health Region. “The institute will help us make better use of limited resources and help bring more expertise to the region.”

“Fundraising is a tremendous opportunity for a community to get what they want,” said Dr. Patch Adams, keynote speaker. “The urology centre is a prime example of the power of the community—how strong leaders supporting a shared vision can make change happen. Calgary is very fortunate to be that kind of community, a community that takes care of itself.”

To date, over $19 million has been donated toward the total $28 million cost of building the institute. Among the other contributors are the Betty and Sam Switzer Foundation, the Flames Foundation for Life, the Rotary Clubs of Calgary and the Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit.

“The urology institute is a priority project for Reach!”, said Ken King, co-director of the joint fundraising initiative of the Calgary Health Region and University of Calgary. “The fact that this project is entirely donor driven speaks volumes about the mind-set of this community—achieving a new world standard of health is important and people like Doc and Brett are willing to step up and lead the way.”