A major gift from a long-time Comox Valley resident is advancing access, innovation, and care across the region.

Each week, you can find Frank Carter dropping off bags of healthy treats for healthcare workers at the Comox Valley Hospital. This is just one of the many ways he aims to give back to his community.

A long-time resident of the Comox Valley, Frank’s grandfather arrived in Merville in 1919 after the war. Frank has fond memories of his family’s farm now the location of the Comox Community Centre. He recalls picking strawberries from the field where children now play soccer and remembers going fishing for salmon with his dad in nearby waters.

It is the people and community that have shaped Frank’s life, inspiring him to give a major gift to the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation.

“I’m passionate about this place and I know all of us experience healthcare challenges at some point in our lives,” said Frank. “I’m proud that my gift will help provide the best technology and care for our community.”

An avid skier and pickleball player, Frank recently underwent hip surgery, and he’s grateful for the local care he received.

Frank’s gift is already advancing healthcare access and innovation across the region.

The Medical Imaging department now benefits from advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced MRI technology and new ultrasound machines, enabling faster, more accurate diagnostics and the ability to serve more patients in the community. His gift has also strengthened Surgical Services with the purchase of a new C-arm X-ray System to assist urologists in the operating room, along with a new sterilization system that significantly reduces the time required to prepare surgical equipment.

In addition, recognizing food and refreshments as sources of comfort and renewal, Frank wanted the hospital cafeteria to serve high-quality coffee. Hospital staff and visitors can now find locally roasted Rhodos coffee, with fresh beans ground daily, through a special partnership facilitated by Frank.

Beyond these examples, significant future initiatives will move forward thanks to his generosity.

“Frank’s giving elevates care across the entire healthcare system,” said Rhonda Stevens, Co-Executive Director of the Foundation. “His philanthropic leadership and vision are inspirational and represent an investment in every patient who walks through our hospital doors today and for many years to come. We are truly grateful.”

For Frank, who is back playing pickleball and looks forward to time up the mountain next season, the hope is that his gift can inspire others. Having great care, close to home, is something everyone deserves, and most of us can help with no matter how much or in what way we contribute.

“When our community is healthy, we all benefit,” said Frank.