South Muskoka Hospital Foundation has received the largest donation in its history: a transformational $8 million legacy gift from Robert George West, an entrepreneurial businessman and longtime Muskoka summer resident.
His generosity will help shape the future of healthcare in the region for generations to
come.
Bob spent his career working alongside hospitals and healthcare professionals as the
founder of Medical Mart, one of the country’s leading medical supply companies. Through
that work, the Wests developed a deep appreciation for what exceptional healthcare
requires, not only dedicated physicians and nurses, but the facilities, equipment and
technology that allow them to provide it.
“Bob understood what world-class healthcare looked like because he spent his career
helping deliver it,” said Leah Walker, CEO of South Muskoka Hospital Foundation. “His
remarkable gift reflects his belief that the people of Muskoka deserve that same standard
of care. We are incredibly grateful that his legacy will help strengthen healthcare in our
region for generations to come.”
Bob first discovered Muskoka during annual family vacations at Bangor Lodge on Lake
Muskoka before eventually purchasing a cottage on Lake Rosseau and making the region
his summer home.
“He fell in love with Muskoka, and there was no turning back. This became
home. It became the community he cared about and wanted to make even
better,” said his son Rob West.
The historic gift will help advance South Muskoka Hospital Foundation’s mission to
support exceptional local healthcare, including the future envisioned Raise Muskoka, the
campaign to build one integrated healthcare system and two new hospitals, one right here
in Bracebridge.
The Foundation hopes Bob’s generosity will also encourage others to consider the lasting
impact of legacy giving.
“A legacy gift is such a meaningful way to invest in the future of our community,” said
Walker. “Bob’s extraordinary example reminds us that a single act of generosity can
continue making a difference for decades to come.”
