May 27, 2024
The late farm couple, Muriel and George Wilson, have been described as “hard-working Albertans who believed that a good work ethic led to a better world for everyone.” In their will, they left $1 million to support better healthcare for their neighbours and community through the Wetaskiwin Health Foundation. Photo supplied.
Story by Gayleen Froese
WETASKIWIN — Imagine having a million dollars to make a positive difference. For the Wetaskiwin Health Foundation, this became a reality, all thanks to the generosity of long-time philanthropists, Muriel and George Wilson.
The couple’s decision to leave a million-dollar estate to the foundation underscores their commitment to their community. This generous donation will continue to support the Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre, ensuring healthcare access for Wetaskiwin and its surrounding communities.
Jim Kerr, one of the 25 nieces and nephews of the Wilsons, fondly shares warm childhood memories of visits to the couple’s farm near Millet. “They were hard-working Albertans,” Kerr recalls. “They believed that a good work ethic led to a better world for everyone.”
A significant part of building a better world was the Wilsons’ lifelong dedication to giving back to their community. They were well-known throughout Wetaskiwin County for their support of charitable causes.
“They lived lives of philanthropy,” says John Strong, executive director of the Wetaskiwin Health Foundation. “When they saw a way to help, they pitched in. Their selflessness and generosity is what they were known for in our community — and the difference they’ve made with this gift will stand as their legacy for generations to come.”
Since 1986, the foundation has played an instrumental role in its support of Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre, improving care and boosting the patient experience. With this latest bequest, the foundation will be able to purchase essential equipment and continue to grow local healthcare services.
“We’re beyond grateful for this gift,” says Monique Janes, director of Rural Acute Care at Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre.
“However the foundation chooses to put these dollars to work, we know that it will be a tremendous benefit for our patients. A donation like this is made for the same reason that our healthcare professionals choose their line of work — it’s all about making a positive difference in people’s lives.”
