A Legacy of Love is Felt at STEGH by Erin Poort, STEGH Foundation ‘ When we think about the impact a life leaves behind, it’s not measured in grand gestures. It’s found in quiet acts of care, in kindness shown over time, and in a deep connection to the place we call home. Barbara Blewett lived that kind of life. Born and raised in Elgin County, Barbara spent nearly 100 years in the community she loved. Alongside her husband, Ted, she built a life grounded in hard work, humility, and care for others. Married for more than 70 years, they shared a simple life, one shaped by strong values and a deep appreciation for the community they surrounded themselves with. Over time, the life they built together became something more, a lasting legacy with the power to support others for generations to come. Through her generosity, alongside the shared legacy of Ted and her parents, Ottie and Clara Underhill, Barbara made a remarkable gift that has transformed care at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH). Thanks to Barbara’s generosity, a new Mammography machine has been fully funded, strengthening breast imaging services and helping ensure patients receive timely, compassionate care when they need it most, right here at STEGH. It’s a meaningful advancement that will touch the lives of countless individuals and families across our community. It’s also a powerful reflection of who Barbara was. Her gift was dedicated in her Will, sometimes called legacy giving. Simply put, it’s a way to leave a gift in your Will to support the people and places that matter most to you. It’s a choice that allows you to care for your loved ones while also extending that care to your community for future generations. For many, it’s not about wealth. It’s about values. It’s about ensuring that the hospital that cared for you and your family continues to be there for others. It’s about helping future generations access the same level of compassionate, close to home care that we all rely on. Barbara’s story is one example of what’s possible. It’s a reminder that the impact we have doesn’t end with us. Through thoughtful choices, it can continue, quietly and meaningfully, long into the future.
Today, Barbara’s legacy lives on in every patient who walks through the doors of the Mammography department at STEGH. In moments of uncertainty, in early detection, in care delivered with compassion, her presence is felt. It is, in every sense, a lasting expression of love. This reflects something we see every day across St. Thomas and Elgin County, neighbours looking out for one another, ensuring that care remains strong, close to home, and here for the next generation. Because when we take care of each other, that care has a way of lasting far beyond a lifetime.
Your Legacy. Their Future. Plan for what matters most.
A gift in your Will helps ensure exceptional health care for future generations in our community. For more information, please contact: Kelley Montfort 519.631.2030 ext. 2282 kelley.montfort@steghfoundation.ca
Learn more about leaving a gift in your Will
What This Means for Patients and Families at STEGH
Shorter imaging wait and appointment times
Advanced breast imaging care close to home
Faster diagnosis
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Real Living • Spring 2026 • Page 11
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs