Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) is paying tribute to the Parker family’s longstanding support following a significant leadership level donation to NHH’s Exceptional Community, Exceptional Care campaign.
Karen Parker says that her late husband Michael’s ethos of sharing, inspired their commitment to NHH. Karen and Michael met when attending East Northumberland Secondary School (ENSS) and went on to get married and move to Toronto before settling back in Northumberland County to start a family.
“When we were asked to consider a gift for the current campaign, the answer was an absolute yes,” shares Karen. “We wanted to do our part in helping ensure our hospital has the equipment required to care for our community. I think most of us hope not to have to use the hospital, but that’s rarely the reality. We are lucky to have this gem in our community and I hope others will see how important it is and offer their support at whatever level they can.”
From Karen’s nursing career to Michael’s board service, their impact on healthcare has been profound.
“Michael and Karen, and in recent years, their son Trenholm, have made giving of their time and resources to NHH a priority,” shares Rhonda Cunningham, NHH Foundation CEO. “I’m so pleased to see the Parker family name honoured in this way as a reminder of what they’ve made, and continue to make, possible for our community.”
In recognition of the family’s commitment to the hospital, a new flagpole named after them honours their dedication to inclusivity and community partnership.
“NHH is very grateful for the Parker family’s support,” said Susan Walsh, NHH President and CEO. “The recognition of that support with the naming of the Michael Parker Family Community Flagpole is very fitting. NHH has grown to the organization it is today because of generous families like the Parkers. Our Shared Purpose as an organization is People First. This is more than just words, it is a goal we strive for as a team every day. As we continue to work for health equity across Ontario, this flagpole serves as a powerful signal, publicly, that NHH exists to serve all people.”
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
