Ellen Peterson has experienced first-hand the benefits of having Langley Memorial Hospital’s quality, local care in our community.
Memories of her father’s final days after a struggle with cancer are tinged with gratitude for the compassion of Langley Memorial medical staff, who kept the family updated on his condition and comfort throughout his care.
“At the end of my father’s life, it was so good to know he had great care and that I could go to speak with his doctor regularly. He didn’t have to leave his community. This hospital is such a nice thing for Langley to have and I can’t imagine life without that,” Ellen says.
Beyond her personal experience, Ellen is also a long-time member and past chair of the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation board, and Executive Director of the Langley Division of Family Practice.
A passionate supporter of local health care, her belief in giving back to her community is rooted in family.
“I used to see my grandparents giving small cheques – $10 or $100 – and they taught us to acknowledge how fortunate we are compared to so many people around the world,” Ellen reflects.
Since moving to the community over a decade ago, she’s donated her time and money to the hospital through annual fundraising drives, events and capital projects like the Emergency Response campaign to build a new Emergency Department and MRI Suite at the hospital.
This year, she found herself reflecting on the future for herself and her relationship with the hospital.
“Like most people, at first I thought, ‘Oh, I’ll just go to an event or give a one-time gift.’ Then after a while you think, ‘This is such an important organization; my family uses the hospital and it’s part of my community, so I’ll give a little more and then perhaps I’ll volunteer…’”
Choosing to Leave a Legacy
Ultimately, Ellen chose one more avenue for her generosity: a bequest in her Will, directed to Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation.
A common component of a sound financial plan, Legacy giving is a natural step forward for donors who choose to build momentum in their giving, and can have a positive impact far into the future, helping the hospital cover costs of projects, programs or capital projects.
For Ellen and her family, this stage of giving is personal as well.
The gratitude and strong belief in Langley Memorial’s future that fueled her own philanthropy and community work, also allowed her to model behaviour to her own children.
“My kids are both quite philanthropic, I encourage them to get involved, be aware, help where they can. I just want them to take some action toward improving the lives of others.”
Learn more about Legacy Giving
To speak to someone about including the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation in your Will, contact Lisa Rosales at