About Us

The West Coast General Hospital Foundation is dedicated to improving healthcare access for all.

Mission

We are committed to raising funds to support the purchase of new equipment and other capital projects that enhance patient care and treatment at West Coast General Hospital.

Values

Appreciation

We sincerely value every donor and volunteer contribution and aim to provide appropriate recognition.

Integrity

Our relationships with donors, volunteers, colleagues, and the community are founded on honesty, trust, and respect.

Transparency

Our fundraising priorities and purposes are clear and transparent.

Responsibility

We use donor funds effectively and responsibly, always reflecting the intent of the donor.

Collaboration

We work collaboratively with our Vancouver Island Health Authority partners to identify and prioritize necessary purchases for enhancing our hospital services.

Vision

Our vision is to be a significant and effective charity, supporting health care initiatives and excellence for all members of our hospital community and those they serve.

Board of Directors

Meet the passionate individuals who guide our efforts and ensure we stay true to our mission
and vision.

Dr. Robbie O'Dwyer
President

Dr. O'Dwyer joined the WCGH Foundation Board of Directors in 2017. Robbie has worked for over 40 years as a specialist in internal Medicine at West Coast General Hospital. Robbie is a skilled teacher, healer and empath. A near death experience in 2003 lead to an awakening to the full spectrum of Holistic approaches to healing and wellbeing. Robby bring first hand understanding of the need for upgraded medical equipment at WCGH.

Ellen Brown
Vice President

Ellen join the West Coast General Hospital Foundation Board of Directors in 2017. Ellen was an Registered Nurse for 30 years. She spent the last 18 year of her career in leadership roles, the last of which were spent at WCGH as the Site Director. Ellen brings her energy and enthusiasm to the Board, along with her expertise of the internal operations at WCGH.

Karen Maika
Treasurer

Karen joined the WCGH Foundation Board of Directors in 2017. Karen works as a real estate agent at Re/Max Mid Island Realty. She is very passionate about giving back, having served her community with countless hours of volunteer and charity work in her 20 years as a Port Alberni resident.

David Wiwchar
Director

David joined the WCGH Foundation Board of Directors in 2022. David is the current operations manager, sales manager, news director & morning news guy at 93.3 The PEAK (CJAV-FM). With him, he brings a deep understanding of news media. David is also a strong supporter of his community, having been Chairman of the Port Alberni Toy Run for the past 22 years.

Bruce Patterson
Director

Bruce Patterson joined the Board of Directors in 2023. Bruce is a retired unit chief for BC Emergency Health Services and currently works in visitor services with the Port Alberni Chamber of Commerce. Bruce believes in giving back to the community and he and his wife Dorothy organize the annual BC Thanksgiving Food Drive and both also volunteer with Emergency Support services.

Help Make a Difference, Empower Change Today

Your donation can transform health care services and save lives. Make a gift now and be a part of something bigger.