Running has always been a de-stressor for Karl. A retired Chartered Professional Accountant, Karl is 73 and was inspired by long-distance runners Emil Zatopek and Eliud Kipchoge to complete three marathons and two half marathons. He continues to run every day and recently ran the 2026 Vienna Marathon this past April and will run the TCS Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon for the third time this fall.
In recent years, however, Karl has been running with purpose.
In March 2022, Karl’s wife, Vinita, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive stage 4 endometrial cancer. She underwent surgery, 12 rounds of chemotherapy and five rounds of immunotherapy under the expert care of the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre. Every step of the way Karl and their daughter, Vivienne, a nurse at Lakeridge Health, felt they were in the best hands.
Deeply moved by the care his family received, Karl decided to dedicate his first TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon to cancer care at Lakeridge Health and raised $11,220 for Lakeridge Health Foundation.
“Vinita predicted right away that I’d run again,” Karl remembers fondly. “She was right - it’s what I love to do. And helping Lakeridge Health at the same time made it even better.”
Vinita sadly passed away in 2024 after a courageous fight, but her love, encouragement and spirit continue to inspire Karl and all who knew her. In her memory, Karl has chosen to leave a gift in his Will to Lakeridge Health Foundation, ensuring Vinita’s legacy will continue to touch lives for years to come.
Karl’s decision reflects how legacy giving can support both family and community. By creating a legacy through a gift in your Will, life insurance, stock, RSP, RIF, TFSA or endowment fund, you can help fund advanced equipment and technology not covered by government funding.
Even a small portion of your estate can create meaningful impact while still ensuring your family is well cared for. It’s an important conversation for families and their advisors. Planned giving experts such as lawyers, financial advisors and the team at Lakeridge Health Foundation are helpful resources in crafting a personalized plan for you and your loved ones.
Through stories like Karl’s, one can see that leaving a legacy gift is more than an act of generosity—it’s a reflection of your life and your values, and a meaningful way to honour those you care about most.
Lakeridge Health Foundation raises funds and awareness for the Oshawa and Whitby hospitals as well as regional projects and programs at Lakeridge Health including the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre. To learn more about creating your own legacy, contact Adrienne Burns at 905‑576‑8711 ext. 32784 or visit www.MyLakeridgeLegacy.com.
