2017 Community Partner of the Year: Helen and Andy Spriet
With over 45 of years of philanthropic leadership, Helen and Andy Spriet have significantly advanced hospital-based research and patient care in London, Ontario. Their support of health research through the St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation has enabled innovation and discovery in the areas of urology, mobility and aging, prostate cancer, retina disease, geriatric care, spinal cord injury and surgical mechatronics.
“Fortunately, we haven’t had too many health issues, but some of our family have had health issues,” says Helen. “That’s part of the reason why we like to make sure people are well looked after.”
Helen and Andy have also advanced research and patient care through support of the London Health Sciences Foundation and Robarts Research Institute at Western University. The Spriet’s have inspired a legacy of giving within their family where their children continue the tradition of philanthropy. One example is the London Run for Retina Research, founded by their son and daughter-in-law.
Helen and Andy have also given generously of their time and expertise as community volunteers on the St. Joseph’s Health Care Board of Directors. They often share the story of their own support to help inspire others to do the same, further building on critically needed resources.
“Helen and Andy have always been there for St. Joseph’s,” says Michelle Campbell, President & CEO for St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation. “They’ve set a tone for others to follow suit.”
Learn more about Helen and Andy Spriet:
The Community Partner of the Year Award was established to recognize the generosity of donors to hospital-based research. The recipient of the award is an individual or an organization who values and philanthropically supports medical research, and by doing so, has had a positive impact on Lawson research, and ultimately the patients we serve.