Sudbury family donates $1M to Health Sciences North Foundation

Di Brina Family Holdings announced Thursday it is donating $1 million to the Health Sciences North Foundation.

The money is aimed at "further enhancing world-class cancer care services at the Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre," a news release said.

"This generous contribution will be instrumental in expanding chemotherapy treatment facilities, ensuring that more patients across northern Ontario have timely access to critical care, while advancing important research to help patients and families in years ahead."

"We are committed to giving back to the community that has given us so much," Michael Di Brina, founder and CEO of Di Brina Family Holdings, is quoted as saying in the release.

"By supporting the Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre, we are helping to ensure that the people of northeastern Ontario have access the world-class care they deserve, closer to home."

David Di Brina, vice-president of Di Brina Family Holdings, echoed the sentiment.

"From an early age, we were taught the importance of giving back and contributing to our community in meaningful ways," he said in the release.

"Supporting a world-class institution like Health Sciences North, alongside its incredible staff and volunteers, is deeply meaningful to our family. It is our hope that this contribution will not only advance cancer care but also bring comfort, hope, and improved outcomes to countless individuals and families across northern Ontario."

The donation will help cover the costs of replacing one of HSN’s 14-year-old CT Scanners. CT scans are essential in diagnosing, treatment planning and monitoring cancer patients.

The money will also support the expansion of the cancer centre’s Infusion Clinic, which provides chemotherapy, blood transfusions, IV antibiotics and other medications.

Currently, the clinic has only four chairs, accommodating just 12 patients daily. By upgrading to eight chairs, the clinic will be able to treat more than 30 patients each day, significantly reducing wait times and helping patients avoid unnecessary visits to the Emergency Department.

"The Di Brina family’s generosity will have a lasting legacy, benefiting cancer patients and their families now and in the future," Stephanie Winn, administrative director of HSN’s Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre, said in the release.

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"As cancer treatment continues to evolve, these improvements will ensure HSN remains at the forefront of cancer care, providing patients and families in Northeastern Ontario with the best possible support during difficult times."

The donation will also support essential equipment upgrades to improve the delivery of chemotherapy and reduce wait times for patients and families.

This includes purchasing infusion pumps, specialized chairs and new nursing workstations.