About one and a half years ago, Ed Cheung was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Since then, he has been receiving chemotherapy treatments at Burnaby Hospital under the care of Dr. Simon Yu.
In gratitude to Yu, and all the staff who have attended to him, Cheung and his family are donating $200,000 for a garden greenhouse or covered pergola on the hospital campus.
“From the very start, I was warmly welcomed,” Cheung said. “The staff were keen to make me comfortable and I am so grateful for that. Chemotherapy has taken a toll on me mentally and physically, and the medical staff have always gone out of their way to ensure my comfort and care. The greenhouse is my way to say thank you to all these professionals, who are heroes in my eyes.”
Once complete, the outdoor space will be a welcome respite for staff and patients looking to escape the challenging environment that medical facilities can often be. In a small way, it will perhaps be a microcosm of the natural beauty Cheung said he has been in awe of since arriving in British Columbia from Hong Kong in 1972.
“I’ve always been fond of the outdoors,” said Cheung. “I truly believe in the healing powers of fresh air and I wanted to create a beautiful outdoor space for staff and patients to enjoy.”
For Cheung, a former real estate and development entrepreneur, philanthropy has always been a priority. Since his days as a Lions Club member, he recognizes that we must all give if we want to continue to improve the lives in our community.
“More than ever, it is important to give so we can continue to innovate, learn, and help the community that Burnaby Hospital is a part of. The more people that give, the merrier!” he remarked.
Planning for the greenhouse will start immediately, and will be completed within two years.
“It is so kind of Mr. Cheung and his family to think of our hospital staff, especially while undergoing such serious treatment,” said Burnaby Hospital Foundation CEO, Kristy James, in a statement. “The greenhouse will serve as a warm and touching tribute to those who work so tirelessely on behalf of our community. I know that Dr. Yu and all the staff who have had the honour and privilege of contributing to Mr. Cheung’s care will be very humbled by his generous and thoughtful gift.”
