Varzaris donate $100,000 to Bringing Hearts Home campaign

By Lethbridge Herald on September 27, 2025.

Sam Leishman
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation (CRHF) is another big step closer to its $30-million fundraising goal, thanks to the generosity of two longtime supporters.

Glenn and Janice Varzari gifted $100,000 to the “Bringing Hearts Home” cardiac campaign last week.

“We are honoured to contribute this donation as heart disease has touched the lives of many within our families and circle of friends. We hope that our support will help enhance heart health services across southern Alberta,” The Varzaris said in a media release.

The fundraising campaign started last fall and will continue to the end of January 2027 in an effort to improve cardiac services in both Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

That includes a few key enhancements, like a new cardiac catheterization lab, an electrophysiology lab, two echocardiography labs, cardiac MRI and CT scanners and expanded ICU capacity.

“The Varzaris’ generous $100,000 gift is another step forward in making world-class cardiac care available closer to home,” says Foundation CEO Crystal Elliott.

“It means patients in southern Alberta will have faster access to diagnostic testing, treatment, and life-saving procedures – like receiving a stent – without the stress and delay of travelling to Calgary. Ultimately, this donation helps reduce pressure on existing hospital units, improves outcomes for cardiac patients, and keeps families together when care is most urgently needed.”

So far, “Bringing Hearts Home” has raised more than a third of its total goal, approximately $12 million. Elliott says the campaign is in a good position, but strong community support will be vital to reach $30 million within the next 16 months.

That said, the CRHF does have a couple more fundraising opportunities in the works to close out 2025.

The annual Stringham Christmas Tree Festival is coming up Nov. 16 at the  and Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre, featuring beautifully decorated trees, auctions and plenty of community spirit.

The Lights of Hope will then illuminate the Chinook Regional Hospital atrium throughout the month of December. A personalized light ornament will be hung with care for each donation in honour of a friend, family member, healthcare worker or in the memory of a loved one.

Further information about both the tree festival and Lights of Hope can be found on the CRHF website.