Record Donation to Fund Pediatric Research Chair
The Hospitals of Regina Foundation has donated $4 million to the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine to create a new pediatric research chair focused on the origins of health and disease. Officials described the gift as “unprecedented” and the largest in the foundation’s history.
Vision for Reducing Disease and Healthcare Demand
“The ultimate vision is to reduce disease, lessen the demand on health care services, and increase health and quality of life for patients and their families,” the organizations said in a joint statement. The chair will study early-life factors such as genetics and environmental exposures that contribute to chronic disease development.
Impact on Pediatric Care in Saskatchewan
Dr. Sarah Forgie, dean of the College of Medicine, called the commitment “extraordinary” and said the research position will have a “major” impact on pediatric research and care. Dr. Terry Klassen, provincial department head of pediatrics for the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), noted the chair will build research capacity, strengthen collaboration, and boost Saskatchewan’s presence nationally and internationally.
Recruitment of Clinical Researcher
The funding will support recruitment of an accomplished clinical researcher who will serve as a faculty member at the U of S College of Medicine and as a practicing pediatrician with the SHA, caring for patients across the province. The research aims to inform clinical care and improve disease prevention.
Foundation and Government Support
Dino Sophocleous, president and CEO of the Hospitals of Regina Foundation, stated: “This groundbreaking research chair aims to detect and prevent chronic disease in our young patients, potentially avoiding the development of chronic conditions in the future, which will give children and families across Saskatchewan greater opportunities to live their best lives.” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said the donation demonstrates a “commitment to putting patients first.”
