Bev Kowaluk’s charitable giving journey took a very personal turn earlier this year following the passing of her beloved husband, Darren. Bev’s soulmate for 30 years passed away on January 16, 2024, in her comforting arms due to complications from a common hereditary liver disease.
Darren was diagnosed with Hereditary Hemochromatosis five years ago. That is when he began to receive care from the medical team at Royal University Hospital’s Liver Unit. Though manageable, complications arose at the end of 2023. He spent two months at RUH before his passing at the age of 60.
Upon receiving benefits from Darren’s life insurance policy, Bev consulted with their financial advisor.
“I asked her, ‘If I hadn’t received the benefit, would I still be able to manage financially, as I am retired?’ She said yes. I immediately knew I wanted to give a major gift now to Royal University Hospital’s Liver Unit.”
In addition, Bev informed Royal University Hospital Foundation that she was making provisions in her Will to bequeath a percentage of her estate to the Liver Unit, the 5th Floor Medicine Unit, and trauma priorities at RUH in memory of Darren.
“The care he received was incredible. With much gratitude and thanks to Dr. Lawrence Worobetz, now retired, and others at RUH, this is how I have chosen to keep my beautiful husband Darren’s name and legacy going.”
Bev hopes her gift in memory of Darren will inspire others to donate to Royal University Hospital’s newly formed Liver Unit.
“Giving never has to be a significant dollar amount. Every dollar helps, and over time, that builds up. Anyone can do it; you just have to choose to do it. Identifying your gift for the Liver Unit will assist with the desperately needed support in liver care in Saskatchewan.”
RUH Foundation graciously thanks Bev for her generous donation to the Liver Unit and for notifying us that she has made provisions in her Will to create a legacy of giving in memory of Darren.
Liver disease affects one in four Canadians. This year, RUH Foundation is raising $250,000 to purchase a liver imaging scanner—a portable Fibroscan®— to be used throughout the hospital and available to support RUH liver specialists in providing liver scans at clinics held in rural and remote communities. This scanner offers a noninvasive ultrasound-based alternative to having a surgical biopsy in diagnosing a variety of liver conditions. The portable liver scanner would be the only one of its kind in Saskatchewan.
To learn more about how to include RUH Foundation in your Will or to make a gift today, contact Candace Boersma, Legacy Giving and Donor Relations Officer, at 306.655.6501 or email Candace.
Read more inspiring stories in our Fall 2024 Milestones or make your donation now.
| Donate Now |
