On September 9, North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC) Foundation unveiled the John Albert & Laura Graziella Watters Renal Dialysis Unit, recognizing the extraordinary generosity of Francis (Frank) T. Watters, whose commitment to local healthcare continues to have an impact on our community.

Family members, including Frank’s children, travelled from Montreal and the Ottawa area for the special celebration, joined by hospital leadership, NBRHC Foundation Trustees, NBRHC Board of Directors, and staff. The naming honours Frank’s parents and reflects his lifelong connection to the community where he was born and raised.

Although his career took him around the world, Frank always fondly remembered his North Bay roots. Working together with the Foundation, he made plans to name the Renal Dialysis Unit, blending his personal lifetime giving with a generous bequest through his Will. Throughout his life, he supported numerous fundraising priorities at the hospital, including the Cancer Care, Close to Home Campaign, upgrades to laboratory and diagnostic imaging technology, and renal care.

Healthcare held a special place in Frank’s heart. Over the years, many members of his family received compassionate care at our community’s former hospitals and NBRHC. Inspired both by those experiences and by a family history including cancer and kidney disease, his generosity will continue to help local patients and families receive exceptional healthcare close to home.

“If my father were here today, I think he would be quite pleased with the outcome and be very proud that his parents are being remembered and honoured in this manner,” said John Watters, Frank’s son. He adds, “On behalf of the family, I wish to thank the NBRHC Foundation for making my father’s wish come true.”

“Frank often told us, ‘philanthropy is in my blood’, and it truly was,” said Tammy Morison, NBRHC Foundation President & CEO. “He shared stories about his parents helping neighbours in need despite having very little themselves, and those values stayed with him throughout his life. We are grateful that he chose to share his intentions to include a gift in his Will years before his passing, which allowed us to thank him during his lifetime and honour his family in this meaningful way. His impact on healthcare in our region is extraordinary, and it was a privilege to know him.”

“Legacy gifts like this have a profound impact on our ability to deliver exceptional care,” said Paul Heinrich, NBRHC President and CEO. “Frank’s generosity will benefit patients for years to come through investments in equipment, technology, and programs that support patient care. We are honoured to recognize Frank’s remarkable contribution and grateful to his family for helping honour his wishes.”

Today, the John Albert & Laura Graziella Watters Renal Dialysis Unit stands as a lasting tribute to a proud North Bay son whose generosity, compassion, and commitment to community will continue to improve the lives of patients and families for generations to come.