As a notary for the CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation, Johanne has been working with donors who wish to invest in the well-being of future generations through bequest or gifts of life insurance, since 2011.
Inspired by a desire to share this experience with those she advises, Johanne recently strengthened her support for Sainte-Justine by including a gift in her own will.
“Now that I’ve planned my own bequest to the Foundation, I feel even more equipped to assist those considering this gesture,” she says. “I know what they’re going through because I’ve been through it myself!”
I explained to my family why this gift is important to me: I’ve worked for Sainte-Justine and contributed to the Foundation, and I want to continue supporting the cause after I’m gone, to the greatest extent possible.
A family connection
Johanne’s connection with Sainte-Justine goes beyond professional commitment. In fact, Sainte-Justine is entwined with her family’s history.
Not only was her husband born at CHU Sainte-Justine, but her father-in-law was involved in the hospital’s construction and spent over 30 years working there as a building superintendent. And now, her daughter Annabelle is completing her fourth year of a pediatric residency with a subspecialty in intensive care.
“My mom has always been my role model,” says Dr. Annabelle Briand. “I love pediatrics, largely because I get to connect with children and families. It’s a trait that runs in the family! My mom takes a profoundly human and warm approach to her life and work, an approach I apply every day in my interactions with my patients.”
As doctors, the more we advance in our careers, the more conscious we are of the essential role philanthropy plays at Sainte-Justine, whether in research, care, or teaching. We’re fortunate to work in a cutting-edge environment, and none of it would be possible without donations.
To those of you who, like Johanne, have chosen to include the CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation in your will or are considering doing so, we extend our deepest gratitude for your generous gesture of love towards children and mothers-to-be.
