Thrive WITH MSH brings women together to advance care at Markham Stouffville Hospital
Female leaders, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and health care experts came together for Thrive WITH MSH, a signature women’s wellness lunch in support of Oak Valley Health’s Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH). Held September 24 at the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel & Suites, the event offered an afternoon of meaningful conversation and connection, celebrating women’s success on their own terms in their work, their health, and every part of life.
Launched by MSH Foundation in 2025, WITH MSH (Women Inspired To Help MSH) unites women through collective philanthropy to advance patient care close to home. Its 46 founding members invested $460,000 in the initiative’s first year, helping fund priority needs in breast health, gynaecology and youth mental health.
“Our vision for WITH MSH is to create a collective space where women gather and drive positive change in health care,” says Suzette Strong, CEO of MSH Foundation. “Together, we are helping patient care thrive at Markham Stouffville Hospital. When women lead, care follows.”
The lunch featured a fireside chat with Canadian TV personality and fashion editor Jeanne Beker, moderated by CBC journalist Angie Seth, who also served as the event’s emcee.
Oak Valley Health’s Dr. Jeya T. Nadarajah presented What’s Your Gut Telling You?, a wellness talk exploring health from the inside out. The presentation offered evidence-based insights into the gut microbiome and its effects on metabolic health, estrogen levels, and lasting well-being.
“With the growing fascination with gut health and the human microbiome, I encourage women to look beyond trying to achieve perfection or the latest viral wellness trend”, says Dr. Jeya T. Nadarajah, Infectious Disease Specialist, Oak Valley Health. “How we nourish our bodies helps cultivate our health from the inside out, creating the foundation for how we feel, function, and thrive.”
MSH Foundation has set a goal of reaching 100 WITH MSH members and raising a cumulative total of $1 million. Members receive exclusive opportunities to connect with one another and learn about the hospital’s evolving needs. Then, at The Final Pitch on March 3, 2027, the latest cohort of members will use their voting power in a Dragon’s Den-style event where they will vote to fund a priority need at MSH.
To become a WITH MSH member or learn more, visit mshf.on.ca/with.
Photo: Dr. Jeya T. Nadarajah, Infectious Disease Specialist, Oak Valley Health, presents “What’s Your Gut Telling You?” at Thrive WITH MSH.