Living a life surrounded by philanthropy

Bill Dean and Debi Dubé-Dean share a commitment to healthcare in the city. The couple recently pledged $25,000 to Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation; making their lifetime contributions more than $50,000.

“For me,” says Debi, “the biggest motivation is that all through my life, especially when I was younger, my parents demonstrated philanthropy whenever able through kindness, financial aid and helping people out. When you give like that, you see how it enhances a person, makes their life better and how grateful they are. They feel so good about it, it becomes a pay-it-forward thing.”

The couple have been patients at City Hospital, she adds. “When I come into City, I just feel I’m going to be taken care of. Even though I’m one of thousands, everyone there makes me feel like I’m their only priority.”

Bill is grateful for their care but also for care his father received. “He was a patient in the Transitional Care Unit a few years ago. He’d had surgeries and was there while they were determining what level of long-term care he’d need. The staff was great, even though the system was really full at the time.”

Bill and Debi say their pledge is a legacy. “We know we’re not going to live another 60 years,” Debi says, noting they also support causes such as the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Stars, and Diabetes Canada. The latter is dear to them because their son was diagnosed with diabetes when he was two years old.

“We give because, after we’re gone, we want people to continue getting the best care by equipping the medical system with the latest, best, hi-tech equipment. The Hospital has talented and skilled staff, let’s make sure they have the tools to treat you to a successful outcome.”

The Foundation thanks Bill and Debi for their continuing and heartfelt support.