A Million-Dollar Beacon of Hope: Nick and Sandra Sdrosh Transform Surgical Care at HSC
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- October 17, 2025
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In a truly heartwarming display of philanthropic vision, the Health Sciences Centre (HSC) Foundation has announced a monumental $1 million donation from generous Winnipeg philanthropists, Nick and Sandra Sdrosh. This transformative gift is poised to revolutionize surgical care in Manitoba, directly addressing the province's significant surgical backlog and paving the way for enhanced patient experiences and outcomes.
The impact of this donation cannot be overstated.
With surgical waitlists burgeoning, exacerbated by the recent global health crisis, thousands of Manitobans have faced agonizing delays for essential procedures. The Sdrosh's incredible generosity arrives as a much-needed lifeline, injecting crucial resources into initiatives designed to drastically reduce wait times, improve surgical efficiency, and elevate the overall quality of care at HSC.
A cornerstone of this new funding will be the establishment of a dedicated clinical lead position, a role now filled by the esteemed Dr.
Colin Birchard. As the new Clinical Lead for Surgical Care, Dr. Birchard will spearhead efforts to streamline surgical pathways, implement innovative practices, and foster a collaborative environment aimed at optimizing every stage of a patient's surgical journey. This strategic leadership is vital in navigating the complexities of a high-volume surgical department.
Beyond leadership, the $1 million contribution will empower the HSC Foundation to invest in cutting-edge research and innovation.
This includes funding for state-of-the-art equipment, advanced training for clinical teams, and the development of new protocols that promise to not only clear the backlog but also prevent future recurrences. The focus extends to enhancing the entire surgical ecosystem, from pre-operative assessments to post-operative recovery, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for patients.
Jonathon Lyon, President and CEO of the HSC Foundation, expressed profound gratitude for the Sdrosh's unwavering commitment to healthcare.
“This isn’t just a donation; it’s an investment in the health and future of our community,” Lyon remarked. “Nick and Sandra’s incredible generosity will directly translate into shorter wait times, improved access to critical surgeries, and ultimately, better lives for thousands of Manitobans, particularly those facing daunting diagnoses like cancer.”
The donors themselves, Nick and Sandra Sdrosh, shared their motivation, driven by a deep desire to give back to the community that has given them so much.
“We believe in the power of giving and the profound difference it can make,” said Nick Sdrosh. “To know that our contribution will help alleviate suffering, restore health, and provide hope to so many during their most vulnerable moments, is incredibly meaningful to us.”
Dr. Mike Heffernan, the provincial head of surgery, underscored the timely nature of this gift, highlighting its potential to dramatically impact patient access to vital operations.
“The pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, leading to an accumulated surgical backlog that has significantly affected quality of life for many. This generous funding will allow us to accelerate our recovery efforts, integrate new efficiencies, and ensure that our patients receive the timely, high-quality care they deserve.”
This landmark donation from Nick and Sandra Sdrosh stands as a powerful testament to the impact of community support on public health.
It reinforces the critical role of philanthropy in bridging gaps, fostering innovation, and ultimately, building a healthier, more resilient Manitoba for generations to come. The HSC Foundation remains dedicated to stewarding this gift with the utmost care, ensuring its far-reaching benefits are realized by all who walk through the doors of the Health Sciences Centre.
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