For most of my life, February was simply a bridge — 28 days standing between me and March Break, Spring Break, and eventually summer. But since joining the Heart Institute, this month has taken on a meaning that is deeper, more urgent, and more powerful than I ever expected.
“February is Heart Month” has ignited an energy you can feel across the city — generosity, storytelling, shared purpose, and a genuine sense of community. I continue to be awestruck by our vibrant Light the Capital Red displays and by the sheer number of community fundraisers, gatherings, and personal moments people have shared with us.
Amid all this momentum, we were deeply honoured to receive the proceeds from the Lino Bassi Memorial Gala. It was an evening rooted in emotion, legacy, and purpose — a tribute to Lino, who passed away last year at just 54 from a heart attack. Whenever I speak about Lino, I’m reminded of my Dad, and at the event I spoke about the importance of prevention, detection, and early intervention.
Lino’s spirit continues to ripple through this community in extraordinary ways. His family, friends, and colleagues created a night that captured exactly who he was: a man driven by heart in every sense. We are grateful to Caroline Phillips for telling his story so beautifully.
Heart Month is also about the unexpected threads that connect us. As a high school student at Sir Robert Borden, I thrived in any subject that didn’t involve math or science. Mr. Pivnick — a long-standing math teacher — was lucky enough not to have me in his class, but he was my camp director at Camp B’nai Brith. Who could have predicted that more than 30 years later, our paths would cross again in a completely different context.
His story sets the tone for Heart Month — a reminder that the roots of connection often stretch much further than we realize. I was touched that he was willing to share his journey, one that began during last year’s Heart Month campaign. Thank you to Joel Haslam for capturing it with such care. Click here to watch!
And if there is one visual that captures the magic of February, it’s our city glowing red each night. Light the Capital Red has grown into a true community movement — and this year, the wave of new partners stepping forward has been extraordinary. Companies across Ottawa weren’t just participating — they were all in. Thank you. The momentum is real, and it’s still growing.
In addition, we have been busy with the Red Light Run and the Siren Series this week — both bringing people together in ways that remind us why Heart Month matters.
Heart Month provides a moment to celebrate the collective impact we’re building together. Our 50th anniversary video captures this beautifully — patients, families, clinicians, researchers, donors, and an entire community shaping a shared legacy. Lending my voice to a story that truly belongs to all of us was a privilege.
A ‘sweeping’ thank you to the Vankleek Hill Curling Club for hosting their 11th annual bonspiel fundraiser, on Saturday February 7th, as part of February is Heart Month! This year participants raised over $15,000 to support groundbreaking research and excellence in patient care at the Heart Institute.
Before I close, I want to share something personal. As we head into the final stretch of Heart Month, I’ll be sidelined for a bit and learning what it’s like to be on the patient side of our medical system. I’m scheduled for spinal surgery on February 24. I’ll miss the last few days of Heart Month, but I’m looking forward — truly — to relief from persistent nerve pain caused by a herniated disc. It has been debilitating for almost a year, and it has taken a toll on my quality of life.
My surgeon, Dr. Adam Sachs, and I also go way back to high school. When I look at our early yearbook photos, I’m reminded that life has a remarkable way of circling back when we least expect it. I’m grateful for the trust I have in him.
Fast forward from our yearbook days to catching up at the Lino Bassi Gala last week, just ahead of my surgery.
I’m also a little concerned for my family’s wellbeing, as I’ll be housebound for six weeks with no workouts, no lifting, and none of my usual activity. HELP.
While I’ll be recovering quietly for a bit, my heart will absolutely be with all of you — and with the incredible momentum our community continues to build this month.
Thank you, as always, for the enthusiasm, partnership, and heart you bring to this Foundation. It is truly felt — and deeply appreciated.
Stay warm, stay safe, and wishing you good health always.
Much love,
Lianne
Lianne
