Portraits of Giving showcases the extraordinary donors who are helping UHN reimagine health care
UHN Foundation announces the debut of Portraits of Giving, a photo essay by acclaimed Canadian portrait photographer Christopher Wahl, which celebrates the generosity of people from Toronto and the GTA who are transforming health care at University Health Network (UHN). Launching today for Thank You Thursday, Portraits of Giving serves as a thank you to all supporters who help make UHN the #1 hospital in Canada.
The series features portraits of nine remarkable donors from all ages and stages, each accompanied by a personal story that sheds light on their individual motivations for giving. From grateful patients and family members to UHN staff, from monthly donors to people organizing their own fundraisers, Portraits of Giving underscores the idea that every gift—no matter its size—has the power to make a meaningful difference.
“UHN has given me an opportunity to live again,” said Arzein Mirza, one of the donors featured in Portraits of Giving, who has been a cardiovascular patient at UHN’s Peter Munk Cardiac Centre since 2014, and who received a heart transplant at UHN’s Ajmera Transplant Centre last year. “I want people to know that this top-of-the-line health care exists at UHN. To have this calibre of health care, we all have to take part. I hope that others will join me in donating so other people can benefit from what’s available here.”
Christopher Wahl, known for his intimate and thought-provoking portraits, brings his distinctive vision to this project, creating a compelling visual narrative that underscores the deep connection between donors and the communities they support.
“These portraits are about people, their stories, and their commitment to making a difference,” says Wahl. “It’s an honour to spotlight these individuals who give selflessly to improve the lives of others.”
The nine donors featured in this series represent the power of uniting as a community, and the incredible impact donations can have to help UHN reimagine health care. From funding life-saving equipment to advancing critical medical research and innovation, donor support helps UHN remain at the forefront of world-changing health care.
Portraits of Giving is available to view online on the UHN Foundation website.
