A Gift of Gratitude
Big-hearted and beloved by many, Lorraine Yeoman left a gift in her Will to support St. Joseph’s Breast Care Program.
Lorraine Yeoman was treasured by her family and friends and remembered as creative, fun-loving and big hearted. She passed in 2023, at the age 83, having left a mark on many people throughout her life. And now her generosity will touch the lives of thousands of people receiving care at St. Joseph’s Breast Care Centre – thanks to a donation she left in her Will.
Act three
Lorraine and her husband John were soulmates who were married for 64 years. They built their life and raised their family in Scarborough. As they eased into retirement and entered the third act of their lives, they decided to move to Southwestern Ontario to be closer to family. Soon they were managing The Chantry apartment building and serving as unofficial social captains, organizing weekly coffee hours, holiday parties and bus trips to arts events, casinos and horse races. That, in addition to enjoying their ever-growing extended family, made for a complete life.
When Lorraine had a health scare, St. Joseph’s was there for her. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and received what she described as phenomenal care from the Breast Care Program – specifically Dr. Muriel Brackstone, now Chair/Chief, division of general surgery, and Linda Cooper who was a Nurse Navigator at the time. Following her diagnosis, Lorraine had a lumpectomy and follow-up mammograms and ultrasounds.
A gift of gratitude
So grateful for the care she received, Lorraine, alongside John, considered plans for their estate once they had both passed. She decided to leave a gift in her Will to St. Joseph’s Breast Care Program. The funds will support the purchase of the latest imaging equipment used in the detection of breast cancer including 3D mammography and stereotactic biopsy units, new ultrasounds and soothing sensory suites.
As their only daughter had died in a tragic motorcycle accident when she was just a teenager, and knowing that the rest of their immediate family members were comfortable, Lorraine and John believed that their estate would best be used to support others needing medical care. Susan Murphy, Lorraine and John’s niece, shared how proud their family is for their aunt’s generosity.
“Leaving a gift in her Will was a lovely way for Lorraine to leave her mark on the community,” says Murphy.
Leaving a Gift in Your Will
A gift in your will is a wonderful way to honour care that treats the whole person - body, mind and, spirit.