The Witdouck family has made a significant donation to the Bringing Hearts Home campaign. (Image Credit: Witdouck Farms)

By David Opinko

Witdouck family donates $500,000 to Bringing Hearts Home

Mar 5, 2026 | 1:09 PM

The campaign to raise $30 million to build a new cardiac care centre in Lethbridge has received yet another major donation.

The Witdouck family has contributed half-a-million dollars.

The family has farmed in the Iron Springs area for more than 70 years.

Dale Witdouck says they have long been guided by hard work, stewardship, and a deep sense of commitment to their community. That same mindset inspired them to present this financial gift.

“In agriculture, you learn how much time matters,” says Witdouck. “When it comes to a heart emergency, every minute counts. Families across rural southern Alberta deserve life-saving care without leaving their community. We’re proud to do our part.”

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

This with contribution, Bringing Hearts Home has raised $26.6 million, which is 89 per cent of the way to its goal.

Upon completion, the cardiac unit at Chinook Regional Hospital would include:

• Two cardiac catheterization labs
• Two electrophysiology labs
• Expanded cardiac diagnostics, including echo, stress testing, and Holter monitoring
• Dedicated cardiac CT and MRI imaging capacity
• A modernized ICU and redeveloped Coronary Care Unit with enhanced patient safety and infection-control design

Dr. Sayeh Zielke, Physician Lead for Cardiac Services in the South Zone, says the mortality rate surrounding cardiac care is about 30 per cent higher in southern Alberta than in the rest of the province. It is the leading cause of death in this region, which is also not the case elsewhere in Alberta.

This is partly due to a lack of specialized services.

“This project will fundamentally change cardiac care for southern Alberta. We are deeply grateful to the Witdouck family for standing with rural families who deserve the very best care close to home,” says Zielke.

Earlier this week, the Alberta Government announced that it will spend $59 million over three years to enhance cardiac and ICU services at Chinook Regional Hospital. It is not directly tied to Bringing Hearts Home.

READ MORE: Government announces $59 million for ICU & cardiac care in southern Alberta