Kelowna, BC, May 15, 2025 –  Not even the rain could dampen the spirit of generosity yesterday, as the community rallied together for the KGH Foundation’s 2025 Day of Giving—raising a record breaking $1,236,527. This marks the most successful Day of Giving yet.

The funds will directly support the acquisition of ‘Vinni,’ a state-of-the-art robotic-assisted surgical system that will soon transform surgical care at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH). Vinni will be the first of its kind in the Interior Health region—a defining step toward elevating KGH as a centre of surgical excellence in BC’s southern interior.

“Once again, we are absolutely blown away by the generosity of our community,” shares Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation. “To see so many people rally behind robotic-assisted surgery is truly inspiring and powerful to witness. This advancement represents a significant step forward in transforming surgical care in our region—made possible by the unwavering generosity of our donors and the dedication of our health care teams. We are profoundly grateful.”

Thanks to the generosity of several local families, every dollar donated before midnight yesterday—up to an incredible $500,000—was matched, doubling the impact of each and every gift.

In a powerful addition to this record-breaking momentum, community leaders Cliff and Lois Serwa stepped forward late yesterday with an extraordinary commitment. The Serwa’s have pledged an additional $500,000 in matching funds, ensuring that every new dollar donated will continue to be matched—doubling the impact of giving until the full amount is reached. This remarkable gift could bring the total raised to $2 million in the coming days and weeks, continuing the wave of generosity that is helping bring Vinni home.

Driven by their deep belief in giving back, the Serwa family shared the simple yet powerful motto that guides their philanthropy: “If you’ve got it, give it.”

All funds raised on Day of Giving will contribute to the Foundation’s $6 million commitment to acquire and implement the new surgical robotics program. The total cost to bring robotic assisted surgical systems (RAS) to KGH is $12 million, and the KGH Foundation has committed to raising $6 million. The program will initially support procedures in urology, thoracic, and colorectal surgery, many of which are cancer-related and currently require patients to travel to Vancouver or Victoria.

“I’ve seen firsthand how life-changing robotic assisted surgery can be— for patients, for surgical teams, and for the entire health care system,” says Dr. Maurice Blitz, Chief of Surgery at KGH and Thoracic Surgeon. “To know that this level of advance care is coming to our hospital because of the generosity of our own community is truly extraordinary. It’s something we can all be proud of because it’s not just transforming surgery, it’s our community supporting the very best health care for each other.” 

 Throughout the day, the hospital buzzed with excitement and generosity as local businesses, families, and individuals stepped forward in meaningful and creative ways. Save-On-Foods fired up a fundraising BBQ and spin-to-win prize wheel, while the Sprott Shaw College “Change Bandits” hit the streets collecting donations. Tommy Guns barbers offered on-site haircuts by donation, and Tim Hortons sold a limited-edition hot pink donut with proceeds supporting the cause. Vista Radio stations broadcasted live from the hospital, helping to spread the word and galvanize support. 

“It’s that kind of spirit that makes Day of Giving so powerful,” says Young. “Whether it’s a piggy bank emptied by a child, a volunteer giving their time, or a business stepping up with a major gift—every act of generosity moves us closer to our goal.”

 Since its inception, Day of Giving has raised more than $6 million in support of health initiatives such as JoeAnna’s House, Foundry Kelowna, advanced stroke care, mental health programming, and the acquisition of a new 3T MRI for KGH.

 The KGH Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to the many partners who made the day possible: Vista Media’s AM 1150, 99.9 SUNFM, and GO 101.5 as well as their on-air hosts and promotions teams; Sprott Shaw College; Nyrose and Associates ReMax Kelowna; Save-On-Foods; Tim Hortons; Remedy’s RX; and Black & McDonald.

 “Bringing robotic-assisted surgery to KGH will have a ripple effect across families and generations,” says Young. “We’re so proud of our hospital, and even prouder of this community for bringing world class care closer to home.”

 To learn more about the campaign or to make a gift, visit kghfoundation.com/robotic-assisted-surgery