At Humber River Health, every act of generosity is a spark for transformative change. Few stories capture this better than that of the Rogers-Hixon family. For nearly two decades, the philanthropy of Melinda Rogers-Hixon and her husband, Eric, has been rooted in a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference, guided by deeply held family values and personal experiences.

“Philanthropy is a core value for our family. It serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness. It allows us to engage with the world beyond ourselves, fostering a sense of shared responsibility to uplift others,” Melinda shares. “It’s about recognizing the privileges we have and using them to uplift others.”

“Philanthropy is a core value for our family. It serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness. It allows us to engage with the world beyond ourselves, fostering a sense of shared responsibility to uplift others.” Melinda Rogers-Hixon

From COVID-19 testing programs to the Robotic Surgery Program and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic, Melinda and Eric have supported initiatives that connect with their belief in creating sustainable, long-term and meaningful change.

As parents to four wonderful kids, Melinda and Eric have been particularly passionate about initiatives that have a direct impact on the health and well-being of children and their families.

“Humber’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic stood out as an essential program – offering immediate and compassionate support for children and teens in crisis,” Melinda explains. “Supporting this program aligns with our commitment to nurturing the next generation by prioritizing their mental and emotional well-being.”

Their connection to Humber is also deeply personal. When Melinda’s mother, Loretta Anne Rogers, suddenly passed away from cancer, the loss profoundly reshaped the couple’s mindset.

“Her diagnosis was unexpected, and the progression of her illness moved so quickly that it left our family reeling,” Melinda recalls. “It was an incredibly difficult and emotional journey for everyone involved—one that gave us a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by patients and their families navigating cancer care.”

The experience of losing her mother left Melinda and Eric determined to concentrate their philanthropic efforts towards investing in the well-being of others. Now having donated $500,000 to date, the Humber River Health Foundation is honouring the couple’s generosity with a donor plaque outside the Cancer Care Lounge.

“The Cancer Care Lounge represents comfort and support for patients and families during some of the most challenging times,” says Melinda. “To have our recognition in a place dedicated to providing care, empathy, and hope feels like a fitting tribute to my mother’s legacy.”

“The Cancer Care Lounge represents comfort and support for patients and families during some of the most challenging times,” says Melinda. “To have our recognition in a place dedicated to providing care, empathy, and hope feels like a fitting tribute to my mother’s legacy.”

Melinda and Eric’s story showcases the profound impact donors can have, not just on Humber’s ability to innovate, but on the lives of those navigating critical health challenges. Their continued support ensures that Humber River Health can carry on its mission of transforming healthcare through compassion and cutting-edge solutions.

“Healthcare funding in Canada is under strain, and the system cannot meet the high standards Canadians deserve without additional support,” the couple explains. “We feel a strong sense of responsibility to step in where we can help provide the funding and resources that go beyond what government support alone can achieve.”

Thank you, Melinda and Eric Rogers-Hixon, for your continued support! Your generosity exemplifies the power of philanthropy, and the Humber community is profoundly grateful for your lasting legacy and your vision for meaningful change.