“We’re incredibly grateful to Patricia and David for stepping forward once again for our hospital and healthcare in our region,” said Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation President & CEO. “Their gift will serve as a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families affected by mental illness and allow PRHC to transform physical spaces and lives.
The announcement was made at a private family event, unveiling new recognition signage in the couple’s honour on Wednesday.
“Their generosity mirrors their compassion,” said Heighway. “Underscoring our shared belief that by supporting mental health and addictions crisis treatment, we can break down stigma, elevate the standard of care, and create inclusive environments where individuals feel valued, cared for, and understood.”
The couple have been donors and volunteers to the PRHC. They were moved to direct their donation after their family suffered a loss due to suicide.
“Our family has experienced the terrible toll that mental illness can take,” said Patricia. “We know that we’re not alone and that there are many people and families in our communities fighting the same battles. We decided to give to better, safer and more accessible mental health crisis spaces at our hospital so we can improve access, raise awareness, and make hope and recovery possible for more patients from Peterborough and our surrounding region.”
“A mental health crisis can strike at any time and when it does, our Emergency Department Crisis Response Unit is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Jennifer Cox, director of mental health and addictions. “However, patient visits to the unit have more than doubled over the past ten years, with more than 3,600 visits last year alone. The Mortons’ gift will help us increase the size of the unit by 50 percent, adding natural light, creating a dedicated waiting area for children, adolescents, and their families, and building a secure, 72-hour short-stay area for high-risk patients in need of reduced stimulation and enhanced nursing care.”
“With the help of the Mortons and donors like them, we’re investing in a healing environment for mental health and addictions patients, providing them with a safe and appropriate space to rest while seeking emergency intervention,” Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC president and CEO. “Together, we’ll create conditions that foster hope, dignity, and comfort, empowering patients to embark on their journey towards recovery with confidence and strength.”
“We believe that by making sure people in crisis have a safe, secure, and supportive environment to go to for assistance, we can help prevent others from experiencing the devastation of losing a beloved family member or dear friend to mental illness,” said David. “Our hope is that this contribution will serve as a catalyst for positive change and inspire others to join us in giving to the future of mental health care in our community.”
