Montreal, September 21, 2005 -- At last night's closing celebration of the public launch of the McGill University Health Centre's (MUHC's) Best Care for Life capital campaign, campaign chair John Rae told the crowd of more than 500 that the quiet phase of the campaign had already raised more than $125 million towards the campaign goal of $300 million. The campaign will support the MUHC's redevelopment project, with $200 million targeted for new facilities at the Glen campus and the modernization and expansion of the Mountain campus (the Montreal General Hospital), and $100 million for the renovation and equipment required immediately for on-going patient care.

"This total shows that the Best Care for Life campaign is already a great success," said Mr. Rae. "It demonstrates the tremendous generosity of Montrealers and the recognition by community leaders that the revitalization of academic health care in our city is one of the most important causes of our time." Mr. Rae went on to explain that the $125 million raised so far is part of the first of three phases of the capital campaign: the leadership phase, which has a target of $150 million; a Joint Corporate Campaign which, in partnership with the CHUM, will raise $75 million; and the community campaign, which will generate the remaining $75 million.

"The support of the community for building the MUHC of the future and ensuring that we can provide optimal care for a patients during the transition phase is vital," said Dr. Arthur Porter, Director General and CEO of the MUHC. "There is a long tradition of generous and visionary community support at each of the partner hospitals of the MUHC. We know this tradition of supporting excellence and investing in the future will also make this capital campaign a success"

Last night's celebration, held at the Mount Royal conference centre, was the culmination of two days of events across the five sites of the MUHC marking the campaign's official public launch. The launch signals the transition from the campaign's quiet phase to a more public forum. Public events, increasing exposure and community involvement will now begin as the campaign gathers momentum. The campaign is expected to continue for three years.

For more information on the launch or on the Best Care for Life campaign, please contact Dianne Fagan at 931-5656