I feel it is important to support those going through what I, and Harriette went through with my cardiac surgery.”
-Shonu Ghosh, Grateful Patient

Showing gratitude is a way of life for Shonu and Harriette Ghosh. Sitting with the couple, their serene and kind demeanor reveals little of the struggles they’ve endured in recent years: a cancer diagnosis, the loss of a parent and a sister, and significant cardiac surgery. Despite these challenges, their hearts remain open, radiating gratefulness and generosity. 

“In the Bengali community, they did not originally have a word for ‘thank you’” says Shonu. “They only had the word ‘grateful.’ And throughout my life, I have tried to find ways to be grateful.” 

Born in Bangladesh, Shonu moved to Canada with Harriette in 1975, settling in Kelowna in 2004. Over the years, the Ghosh’s became well known in the community for their extensive volunteerism and inspiring generosity. But in 2023, their giving hearts faced a literal test when Shonu required a triple bypass and valve replacement surgery. 

Luckily, Shonu was able to undergo this surgery at KGH. This was made possible by donations to the $12 million Be a Lifesaver campaign which equipped the Interior Heart & Surgical Centre at KGH with some of the most advanced cardiovascular equipment and operating environments available. These state-of- the-art tools enable surgeons to perform critical procedures close to home, including the life-saving surgery Shonu received. 

As his heart healed, Shonu set two goals. The first was to grow stronger—he and Harriette often reach 10,000 steps before 10 a.m.—and the second was to give back to the hospital that saved his life. Once they were settled, the couple made a heartfelt gift to the KGH Foundation in support of Cardiac Care. With both goals achieved, Shonu still decided to further his impact and began volunteering in the cardiac wing at KGH— this in addition to all his other volunteering efforts given to various Interior Health associated facilities. 

So Shonu started to sit down with patients and their families to guide them through their emotions and fears as they navigate cardiac surgery and recovery. As a pastor, this form of care and compassion comes naturally to him. 

“I volunteer and give because I am grateful,” states Shonu. “I feel it is important to support those going through what I, and Harriette, went through with my cardiac surgery.” 

The Ghosh’s generosity serves as a powerful reminder that gratitude and giving back can not only heal hearts but transform lives. Because, in the end, giving truly changes everything.