The MUHC Foundation and the MCI Foundation unite for the benefit of respiratory health

At a time when the COVID-19 crisis has been drawing attention to respiratory health on a global scale, the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) congratulates the MUHC Foundation and the Montreal Chest Institute Foundation on joining forces to bolster research and care opportunities for patients living with complex and chronic respiratory conditions. Their ‘Dream Big Breathe Easier’ campaign will raise $10 Million to purchase state-of-the-art medical equipment and pioneer innovative treatment programs, among other groundbreaking investments that will ultimately save lives.

“The Montreal Chest Institute (MCI) of the MUHC, located at the Glen site, has a long and storied history of helping patients with complex respiratory conditions,” says Dr. Pierre Gfeller, president and executive director of the MUHC. “This important merger between these two Foundations of the MUHC will support our common goal of improving the quality of care for our patients and reinforcing our position as world leaders in research and innovation.”

Every year, the MCI sees over 30,000 patients for lung-related conditions including lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, asthma, and tuberculosis. It is recognized globally as a powerhouse of respiratory care and is home to fourteen specialized clinics and programs. As the MCI Foundation’s Chairman Bryan Fitzpatrick notes, this new partnership will positively affect the lives of those living with respiratory disease as well as their families.

“Together, we can work towards developing innovative solutions that will allow millions of people with respiratory disease, in Quebec and around the world, to breathe easier,” he says.

“The MCI has made an indelible impact on healthcare in Montreal and in Quebec,” adds Julie Quenneville, President of the MUHC Foundation. “The launch of our Dream Big Breathe Easier campaign will ensure that patients benefit from the very best care and have access to life-changing clinical trials.”

Respiratory diseases are on the rise for several reasons, including exacerbated air pollution. In recent years, vaping also came under the microscope as experts seek to understand the possible dangers it might pose to lung health. Over 3 million people die from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) annually, an estimated 6% of all deaths worldwide, and 235 million people suffer from asthma. With the emergence of COVID-19, a devastating virus that can wreak havoc on the lungs, it became imperative for experts to dive even deeper into respiratory research.

We praise our foundations for coming together for the benefit of patients and families affected by respiratory conditions, and look forward to seeing the fruits of their labour!