Whether you are new to QEII Times or a faithful reader, we want to thank you for your support. QEII Times is a celebration of QEII Foundation donors and the patients, staff, volunteers, physicians and researchers at the QEII Health Sciences Centre working to make health care better for all Atlantic Canadians. We are grateful to our advertisers for their financial support, and to our partner, The Chronicle Herald, who make QEII Times possible.

In this, our sixth issue, you will learn about important research happening at the QEII thanks in part to donors who continue to give to advance care. Healthcare leaders like Dr. Sultan Darvesh, a QEII neurologist and director of the Maritime Brain Tissue Bank, who is on the verge of ground-breaking research into new diagnoses, treatments and potential cures for Alzheimer’s disease.

We also share stories in this issue of strong partnerships, like those with the Brain Repair Centre, who are driving incredible innovation right here in our own backyard. A group of more than 50 scientists, they are working to bring new treatments for neural and sensory disorders to the QEII and potentially, around the world.

The QEII is a jewel in our healthcare system, helping people from across the Maritimes live longer and healthier lives. Spanning two city blocks, the QEII is comprised of 10 buildings on the Halifax Infirmary and VG sites, and provide care for more than one million patient visits each year.

This issue also showcases the three new linear accelerators coming to the QEII. This equipment will improve patient care and reduce wait times for cancer treatment. It is also amazing to note that the sophisticated technology used in this equipment was designed right here in Nova Scotia by QEII and Dalhousie University researchers. This is a perfect example of the economic impact health care has on this province. Not only does the QEII employ over 8,000 Nova Scotians, but it commercializes new products and services that resonate around the world, increasing Nova Scotia's economic well-being and profile.

We are grateful to the individuals and organizations that continue to support health care at the QEII through their generous gifts. Whether you give $10 or $10,000, every gift makes a difference. Together we are stronger, keeping our families and communities healthy.

Looking ahead, we have ambitious goals to significantly advance services for patient care, improve facilities and enhance the research mandate of the QEII. We have an opportunity to transform health services for Atlantic Canadians through bold, philanthropic leadership.

There is so much happening here in Nova Scotia. We have every reason to stand up and be proud.