Is there anything money cannot buy. This is a total disgarce to our city.


Mark Rau
Hamilton

Nora Frances Henderson earned the honour of having the hospital named after her. Charles Juravinski has been generous with cash, may he now show generosity of spirit and not take away her name. Recognition of his donations could be made at the Henderson in perhaps naming a Wing after him, as they do at St. Joseph's Hospital. Another option, perhaps the "Juravinski General" on Barton Street.


Jeanne Bourdages
Hamilton

Big no to the change!!!!!!!!
Very unhappy about the name change. Not necessary to take Nora Francis Henderson's contributions of a lifetime over $$$$$$$


marg lombardo

I recall a public rally at the hospital one night and then a public meeting at one of the Mountain High Schools another night. Both were well attended by ordinary citizens and also nurses and doctors. I recall seeing Howard Hampton at the rally lending his support also. These latter folk spoke against the closure and it was kept open. Where Mr. Juravinski, and his money, was when the Ontario Government was looking at CLOSING the Henderson Hospital?
The name should stay Henderson Hospital, as many people contributed their hard earned dollars over the years to both the Henderson and General Hospitals, now it seems their contributions count for nothing. Some family may have contributed what amounted to a sizable sum in the 1950s and 1960s, say $15,000.00. At that time it may have represented the income for a whole year. Compare that with the incomes of today, maybe that family should have their name on the building and not just on a plaque in the building.


Jack Graham
Hamilton

Memorial Names should not be "dropped" prematurely! They must be preserved in some honourable way! At least a Wing or Lecture Room should be dedicated to bear the name of the Historic person


Peter B. Simpson
Hamilton

This long time named Henderson Hospital should retain it's original name. Let the Juravinski be happy to have the cancer center with their name. It should also show on a separate plaque the contribution that the Juravinski's have made to the rebuilding of the "HENDERSON" Hospital.

Sam Dinning
Hamilton

Please do not allow the Henderson name to be changed. If it has to be incorporated then it should be the Henderson Jaravinski.

Rita McEnaney
Hamilton

I do not feel that the Henderson should be renamed to the Jurvinsky Hospital. This undermines the great work that Ms Henderson did for the community. Henderson Hospital is well known as a leader in Oncology treatment both within Ontario and across Canada. To change the name based on a donor would not be correct. Many wonderful people have donated time, compassion and money to this hospital and I feel that we should NOT center out one donor. To ensure that that patient receives the BEST care, it takes everyone to be a doner, not just ONE.

Julie Bosworth
Brantford

I don't like the idea that an honour is bestowed only for a short period of time. The passing of time should not diminish a person's contribution. At this rate, I think even the Juravinski Hospital would be a temporary name - for a couple of decades until someone generously pays for upgrades. There must be a way that we can properly honour the contributions of both Henderson and Juravinski in a permanent manner.


Susan Harrison
Hamilton

I would like to support Terry Whitehead's comments. Hospitals are built and maintained by public dollars. A small percentage of that amount then buys the name. It speaks to what we value as a society. What do we value? For me it also goes to the cancer centre. I received life-saving treatment from the Hamilton Regional Cancer Centre 10 years ago and am still alive today. I was prould of that - my city, my hospital. That has changed. I note that the Regional Cancer Centre has been doing fundraising promoting the idea of supporting Hamilton but they lost the name. Names mean so much. And so also for the Henderson - here was a woman who spent her life doing positive work for Hamilton and was a role model for women. Name sold off. Thank you Terry for writing and leading this.

Helen Kirkpatrick
Hamilton

please do not change the name--this is our history -- no name change-not now or ever

Michael Power
Hamilton

I have lived in Hamilton most of my life and have worked at the Henderson site of Hamilton Health Sciences since 1974. I completely agree with terry Whitehead's statement. The Cancer centre has already been renamed to reflect the generous donation from the Juravinski's, renaming the Henderson is a little over indulgent. Many people have worked toward the improvement of our mountain hospital and recognizing only one contribution tends to devalue what others have done. The good work is an acomplishment of many, people have given what they can. If all can not be recognized nobody should be held us as more generous just because they were more financially able.


Marian Wheeler
Hamilton

The Henderson General Hospital was named after Nora Frances Henderson, in recognition for her personal contribution to the life of this city and its residents. The Board of the Hamilton Health Sciences Corporation has decided to rename the rebuilt hospital, the Juravinski Hospital. There is much opposition to this change. It reminds me of when Pierre Trudeau died and Jean Chretien wanted to re-name Mount Logan (Canada's highest peak) after him. Sir William Logan, after whom the mountain was originally named, was an eminent Canadian geologist, and the public outcry against the name change forced the government to abandon the idea. I hope that the same will happen here and the Henderson name will be preserved for the hospital.


John Harrison
Mount Hope

I believe the Henderson Hospital name should remain as it is.


Marie Wallace
Hamilton

Our 2 children were born at the Nora Henderson Hospital. We think they should retain the Henderson name!

June & Bill Stetson
Hamilton

As a retired nurse, I would hope the name of Henderson Hospital remains.

Sylvia Mott
Hamilton

Perhaps the name Juranvinski could be added after the name Henderson to appease the parties who wanted the change.


pauline schweitzer
dundas

Please do not change the name of the Henderson Hosp.
I know that there are many donors (WITH LARGE DONATIONS)WHO probably deserve this honor, but do not let money dictate this decision.

B. Hall
Mount Hope

Please KEEP the name "Henderson Hospital". We can't keep wiping out the achievements of the past. Juravinski has his name on LOTS of things already. You can't buy everything.

Robert Dixon
Hamilton

I am thoroughly disappointed at the thought of re-naming a hospital simply because someone, in 2009 has more money than Nora Frances Henderon did. Credentials, historical significance, and meaning to the community should matter. Stop thinking only about dollars and cents. Leave Henderson Hospital as it should be, as HENDERSON HOSPITAL.


Krista Rhodes
Ancaster

I think it is just terrible that they are changing the name. What happens when the next big donation comes in...does it get changed again?

Name WItheld by request
Alberta

How can the example of public service and dedication to the people of Hamilton to say nothing of the value of the lifelong roll model of Nora Francis Henderson for young people be thrown out for a cash donation, large as it was. This tells me a lot about the members of the board who made the decision and their values. It also explains why staff and patients can get a feeling that they are not important in the delivery of health care when the board values money in hand more than the history of long service honoured.

Robert Wright
Mount Hope

I am opposed to the name change of Henderson Hospital. I don't want Nora Frances Henderson's memory to disappear or the remebrance of her work and her place in women's rights. This is a most unfortunate circumstance. Despite the generosity of Mr Juravinski, I just don't want Hamilton to lose part of its history. Perhaps Mr Juravinski can be approached and graciously leave the name on the hospital and keep his as it is on the Cancer Clinic and other instituions in the city. Thank you
Loretta Ray
Hamilton

In my childhood, the hospital was known as the Nora Frances Henderson -- now commonly called the Henderson.
It is right to honour the financial contributors, but not at the expense of the original force honoured in the hospital's name!
To expect such a reward for a donation is uncharitable, and to think that the donors expect such a reward is probably an insult to their generosity.
It is also, "faint praise" as they must know that 50 years from now the name may change again . . .
The bottom line: Leave the name in tact; honour the new donors with name recogintion on a hall, an auditorium, in a mural . . . if need be. The thanks really is in the act of giving, not in anything concrete a community can hand over . . . for a few decades . . .
Respectfully,
Judy Taylor
Hamilton

The Juravinskis already have many things named after them in this city. I would think they do not donate for name recognition alone.


Elizabeth Poynter
Hamilton

At a time when we are perserving and restoring our heritage buildings, surely we should have the same respect for the outstanding citizens of the past who helped to build our community. I strongly support retaining the name of Henderson Hospital.


Anne Jones
Hamilton

"I believe that the name of the mountain hospital should remain the Nora Frances Henderson. She was an amazing woman, who contributed generously to the service of the communities of Hamilton and surrounding areas. It would be a dishonour to the memory of Nora Frances Henderson to retract the honour bestowed on her in 1954 by the citizens who so loved and admired her."

Charlotte McDougall
Hamilton

I am concerned about the renaming of Henderson Hospital. It seems the City of Hamilton is selling our heritage to the highest bidder. A part of the hospital should certainly be dedicated to the Juravinski family to acknowledge their generousity. However, this should not obliterate the commemoration of Miss Henderson's many contributions to our city. It is curious that the renaming of the hospital has been so secretive. Newspaper articles and even signs posted on fences around the building site refer to Henderson Hospital as well as Juravinski. It seems the "powers that be" are trying to hide the change of the hospital name.


Anne Hermann
Hamilton

We would like to see the Henderson Hospital keep it's existing name.

Tom and Wanda Hammill
Hamilton

I am in favour of leaving the name of the Henderson Hospital as it is to honour Nora Henderson for the following reasons: Why should this name change to honour money when Nora put her "all" into many areas of the people and was a very good choice for naming of the hospital in the first place.

I am in favour of the naming of the Cancer Section of the hospital (as I believe it is now) under the Juravinski Cancer Clinic name. The new benefactor is recognized and we retain our first person (a woman at that). Why should we feel that there is a need for change?

Maybe it is time to refresh the whole City of what Nora actually did for us.


Another thought is that since donations were provided by Mr. Juravinski to other hospitals in the area, he should be honoured in the Hamilton Health Sciences rather than with an individual hospital. He is already honoured at the Henderson through the Clinic.



Pat Blackburn
(family member spent many hours in the Cancer Clinic
and passed away in the Henderson)

Please add my name to the list of people who demand that Nora Henderson's name remain on what are now HHSC buildings. Her legacy deserves a place of honour.

Rosemary Hilbert
Hamilton

I am opposed to changing the name of the Henderson Hospital. It would be far more appropriate to name a wing after the Juravinskis. Wealthy people should not be able to buy this honour.

Irene Robinson
Hamilton

I do not agree with changing the name of the Henderson Hospital. Let new projects carry new names.

Ellen Aikman
Hamilton

I know money talks but does it have to obliterate our past? We`ve lost many of our heritage buildings and now we are going to lose the tribute and the respect we paid to a woman who blazed the trail for every woman who came after her.Would we re-name Copps Coliseum or McQuesten Bridge or Gage Park if the price is right? I have tremendous admiration for the Juravinskis and all the good they have done and continue to do and I can`t understand why they want to do this to the legacy of Nora Francis Henderson.


Barbara Nixon
Hamilton

Mr. Jurvinski should be thinking about what they will name the hospital in another 50 years, someone always has more money and power.

Robert Johnstone
Hamilton

I think Mr. Jurvinski has proven to be a very generous man and one more time should step up and concede the name to Nora Francis Henderson. We are to quick to throw things away today, soon there will be no record of all the wonderful people and things of the past. Please one more selfless act Mr Jurvinski!

Elizabeth Johnstone
Hamilton

I personally gave birth to 3 children at Henderson and lost my beloved father there as well. It will always be the Henderson to me no matter what name you give it.
Nora Frances Henderson deserves the recognition originally given by naming the hospital after her. We need to rethink this decision for the name change.


Mildred Johnson
Hamilton

I am in favour of keeping the name of the Henderson as it currently stands. I truly appreciate the generosity and philanthropic nature of the Juravinskis, but I believe that it would be more appropriate to name a wing of the renovated/rebuilt Henderson Hospital after them, rather than re-naming the whole hospital...some things should not change...Thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion.


Pat Clark
Hamilton

Henerson Hospital should remain as it is. Money should not be able to discard a person's name and the history behind the hospital. It will always be Henderson to me.


Cindy Bailey
Hamilton

Please do not take the Nora Henderson name away. She was a pioneer and earned the respect and namesake. The Juravinski's are generous but they have the cancer centre named after them.

Teresa T.

I am a long time employee of HHS and spent 29 years working at the Henderson. I remember when they, the board announced that the hospital would be changing name to the Juravinski. We were aghast at the idea and especially at the fact that no one but the board had any input into the decision. The fact of the matter is that any opposition to the idea would be useless as employees of the instition have never had their input considered in any important matters. I think that the Juravinski's are acting in an arrogant and selfish manner in agreeing to this name change. I think it is enough that they're already upfront and centre on the cancer centre. Even though I acknowledge that their financial contribution has been significant I do think that in the whole scheme of the hospitals operating budget that it is no big deal. I would like to ask them how they would feel if another person came along with a more substantial monetary contribution to the organization, if the name should be changed again to honour them?
I whole heartedly agree with Terry Whitehead's column in the mountain news, Sept. 11.09.Let the employees and any other interested parties vote on the idea of changing the name. I'm sure the opinion would be to let the Henderson Hospital name remain!


Pat Ward
Hamilton

One again we see an expmle of how HHS disreguards the people who have funded the day to day work of the hospitals. and now thinks he can dictate how a womans name is to dissappear!


Evelyn Haslehurst
Hamilton

So many changes in the world. Enough already! As a Henderson baby, and a supporter of the Hamilton Mountain Heritage Society's good work, I am hoping that the name will remain the (Nora) Henderson Hospital. What's in a name -- our history! Please don't let it be lost forever.


Colleen Stetson
Hamilton

I agree with the Hamilton Heritage group that the name should remain Henderson Hospital!


Jean Kenny
Ancaster

My daughter was born there, and I hope the name remains Henderson Hospital.


Colvin Glasgow
Hamilton

I wish the name to remain Henderson Hospital.


Dolores Forrester
Hamilton

The hospital in which I was born stands empty and will soon disappear,my primary school is gone, my high school is gone,the apartment I grew up in is gone.The names have disappeared with the buildings.
I feel as if my Brampton, Ontario history is being erased.
I empathise with Hamiltonians who want to preserve the name of Henderson Hospital and I want to add my name to those who do not want it to change.

Mary Lou Dickson
Hamilton

The Juravanski's already have the cancer clinic named after them. the name should remain Henderson - a ward is not enough but obviously money talks

Cyndie Morris
Hamilton

I agree with you strong heartedly. I was hoping for a web site where I could vote my wishes and be recognized as a supporter. You need to pole the Hamilton people on the issue even the ones without computers. Thank you for listening, Joan


Joan Trotman
Hamilton

Nora Frances Henderson Hospital should NOT be renamed!


Marge Chabai
Hamilton

Money should not be an issue here.
Look what Nora Francis Henderson has done.
It would be very sad to see a name change.
Thank you,
Bob & Gerrie Vanvoorst.
Hamilton

We think the name Henderson Hospital should not be changed just because someone donated a sum of money. The same thing happened with Hamilton Place this was funded by the taxpayers but someone did the same thing.This should not happen to the Henderson Hospital!


Rose & Ken Wilson
Hamilton

Money should not have a factor in naming a hospital.How are the front line workers going to keep up with the people coming in treatment? Do you want the "J" Hospital or do you want the "J" Cancer clinic? This is going to be an on going problem.Mr. J fell into his fortune through the misfortune of others. Question comes to mind A gift of compassion or income tax benefits. Regardless I think the Henderson name should Stand.


Matt Farrell
Hamilton

The hospital was named in honour of a great person already. No one can change the name, especially because someone gives enough money. Name a wing Juravinski, but not the entire hospital.
I'll bet even the Juravinski's aren't giving the money to get their name up in lights. They aren't giving for that reason.
It's the Henderson hospital, now and forever.


Rob Beattie
Hamilton

Somethings should be left alone. Keep the name the same! What possible good reason would they have for changing it?


Karin Goddwin
Hamilton

I would also like to protest the Juravinski name being put on the hospital in place of Ms. Henderson's name. If the Juravinski's want to be so philanthropic, why can't they do it anonymously like other donors do that consider their causes bigger than their egos!! The Juravinski Cancer Centre is enough for their name. Please keep me posted as to the progress of stopping the name change! Thanks.


Diana Sully
Hamilton

The Henderson General Hospital should remain as Henderson. If there is to be a name change, it should revert back to Nora Frances Henderson! Thank you kindly.


Robin Gagnon
Hamilton

I am personally appalled that the name of this fine hospital can be bought by a donation. Many people have made donations to this hospital over the years-some large, so small, some monatary, some of their time and skills. To change the name to suit the vanity of the latest large contributor is disrepectful of all Hamiltonians and especially disrepectful of Nora Frances Henderson! Will the next large contributer than have the name changed again? How long will Mr. Jurvinski's name remain on any building when he, himself,has set the precedent of "buying" the right to name a long standing institution after himself? His actions appear to be more an attempt to buy fame than to contribute to the well-being of a city and hospital that has served both him, his family and all citizens of the region well for many years. He reaps the beneifits of a large and probably much desired, tax reduction. It is not also necessary to put his name on a building that is already suitably named.


Carolyn McCann
Hamilton

I say to leave the name as is. Juravinski came 2nd, chronologically, and can be added as an add-on. Stop tampering with history!!!


Michael Jefferson
Ancaster

The fact that HHS is renaming the Henderson hospital is yet another example of how all hospitals care about is money; not patients, money. The provincial government is no different.
I commend you for attempting to preserve the meaningful dedication of the hospital to Nora Henderson.

I wish to remain Annonymus

I agree l00% with Terry Whiteheads comments in the Mountain News re "Forever Henderson" (I am a volanteer at JCC). Surely having recognition at St.Josephs AND the "Juravinski CC" is enough???????????????


Cathy Noble
Ancaster

Money is a good reason for naming a hospital, but a better reason is history


Frank Logan
Hamilton

We strongly protest the changing of the name of Nora Frances Henerson Hospital.Who gave permission to the HSC to do this?The taxpayers didnot,it's our hospital.


MaryAnn and Michael McNamara

Hamilton

It's monstrous to even consider changing the name of the Henderson Hospital. Certainly the lack of openness by which it was proposed reflects no credit on the decision makers who proposed a name change. All who make significant contributions to a community should be recognized. But to eliminate honours to past Hamilton benefactors means ignoring the contributions made in their time, and trivializing the city's history. There's nothing like a groundswell of public opinion I'm pleased to be part of.


Iris Berryman
Hamilton

The Juravinski's already have the rather substantial cancer clinic named after them for the generous donations that they have made over the years, which is most deserved. however retain the name of Henderson for the hospital for which it too is most deserved.


Paul Kuzyk
Hamilton

foreverhenderson.ca

I worked at the city Hall (treasurers office when Mrs Henderson was on council and can verify the outstanding service she gave. Please don't change the name.


mary(waller) prescott
Toronto

I agree. Keep the Henderson name.

Norman Jarvis
Hamilton

I am in total agreement with the fine letter "Forever Henderson" Whoever wrote that is right on the mark. Let the philanthropists quietly cherish their deeds and the means thereof. If huge donations are given for public glory, that is the donor's problem to be dealt with deep inside individually.


Grace Cowling
Grimsby

I emphatically agree that the name Henderson should be retained! Of course many people in Hamilton have forgotten Nora Frances Henderson and her contributions to the city, but that does not mean that they are any the less, just the same. I do not believe that buildings (airports, theatres, geographic sites etc.) should be re-named when a new star comes on the horizon. The original name was chosen for a very good reason, especially when it is a name like Henderson. With all due respect to the Juravinskis, when the name is tied solely to monetary considerations, it means very little.


Dorothy Turcotte
Grimsby

Changing the name of Henderson Hospital would be the wrong thing to do considering the public was not informed and we are the ones going to use it. It is nice to have money to put forth but do it in good jesture and leave the name the same.


January Will
Hamilton

Retain Henderson name and Juravinski too. Both deserve it.


Stewart Leslie
Mount Hope

Although the Jurvanski's have been very generous, it would be very gracious of them to keep the name of Henderson Hospital. Nora Frances should be honoured for her longtime work for the people of Hamilton. Even if the name is changed it will always be Henderson to Hamiltonians.


Greta Starr
Hamilton

I want the Nora Francis Hospital to remain the Nora Francis Hospital I appreciate all of the donations that Mr Juuravinski has made but it is only money not time and committment


Sharon Yachetti
Hamilton

I was born at the Nora Francis Henderson Hospital, and was raised in Hamilton. My mother spent some of her last days in the hospital, and we very much appreciated the care she was given.
The Nora Francis Henderson is part of the fabric of our family, as it is for many other families of Hamilton and surrounding areas. Its name indelibly links it to a one of the most important persons in the city's history. I object to changing the name, and I object to the secretive way that the name change came about.
I request that the city council and if necessary the provincial government correct this improper decision and retain the name of the Nora Francis Henderson Hospital.


William Aikman
Ottawa

To Betty From Palmerston
This is a different facilitiy altogether, this hospital was built in the 50's as an extension to the then Mountain Maternity Hospital. It was honoured for a great woman who did much for the City of Hamilton not a promoter of gambling and sport.

Barbara Revesque
Hamilton

I grew upon the mountain in 30s and 40s. Henderson was a name change from when my siblings were born there.


Betty Audet
Palmerston

If the Henderson name is dropped , the Juravinskis need to know that a precedent will be set, and the next person to come up with a bunch of cash will be entitled to drop the Juravinski name like a hot potato.

William Starr
Hamilton

Although I am not a mountain resident I have believe that the Henderson should retain its name. These decisions should not be made by any board behind closed dorrs but should at the very least be held at an open forum. Leave it alone and move on to more important things.


Elizabeth WAGNER
Hamilton

I believe Nora Frances Henderson should continue to be honoured by the name of the Hospital which has born her name for some years. I am a long time resident of Hamilton. I was born at the Mountain Maternity Hospital, I visited my grandmother when she was a patient at the "Nora Frances" and did an internship at the "Henderson General". I do not think public buildings should have their names changed to suit donors of large amounts of money. Nora Frances Henderson was a strong woman who stood up for many important causes and should continue to be honoured.


Mary Pomfret
Hamilton

I think the name Henderson hospital should be preserved. What about starting a petition or a facebook group?

Judy Mair
Hamilton

I was born in the Mountain Hospital in 1931 and am quite happy with the present name. Out of respect for history the name should not be changed. I am quite sure that those who contribute money to the hospital do not expect the hospital to me named after them.
The Hamilton Health Services Board has created a power they do not deserve. Our elected officials should bring them to task and get things under control.
Add my name to the list of those opposed to change of name.
Tom and Donna Lowden.

Please keep the name "Henderson" hospital. Both my brother & I were born at this hospital & my father served the City of Hamilton at the same time as Nora Henderson. She was a great lady & the name should stay.


Penny Matwychuk, Acaster

The Henderson will always be the henderson to me. We have the cancer clinic named after the Jurvanski's already, and I see no reason to change the name of this Hamilton Landmark. Add my name to the list of those resisting the change, please.
Wendy Lowden, Hamilton

I've always been impressed by the quality of care given at the Nora Francis Henerson Hospital under which name my late mother received incredible care in the sixties and seventies. Later after the shortening to Henderson General Hospital I had the unique pleasure to entertain patients with a group of Nurses and Interns in the mid sixties. It will always be the Henderson General to me.
I also have a lot of respect for Charlie Juravinski and the infinite financial assistance he has given to the Cancer Wings and have no problem with the naming of the centre in his honour.
However I would whole heartedly agree the hospital should always remain Henerson General in honour Of Nora Francis no different than the Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington who is named after a great aborignal from back in the 1800's
Leave the name alone.
Bernie Evans
Retired Hamilton Police Officer

I very definitly do not approve of the name change. While appreciating the contribution the Juravinskys have made they already have recognition of a very important part of the Henderson complex. I feel that it should remain The Nora Francis Henderson Hospital for ever.

Linda Baine, Dundas

The name of the Henderson Hospital should NOT be changed by bureaucrats without consultation with the public. History should not be rewritten on a whim.
Gloria Oakes, Ancaster

I was very upset a while back when I first heard of the name change. I agree they have donated large sums of money and that is very generous of them, but I am against the proposed name change.

Jane Johnson, Hamilton

I agree strongly that the Henderson Hospital, named after Nora Henderson, should NOT be changed.

Catherine Raso, Hamilton

All Hamiltonians realize what caring and generous people Charles & Margaret Juravinski are. The donation of $5 milion to build a new wing of St. Peter's is truly amazing. But to request that it be named after Hamilton's own Lincoln Alexander and his late wife, Yvonne, has special meaning. Linc has done much to raise awarness of Hamilton. Another person who did much for the City is Nora Frances Henderson. In gratitude, the City named Henderson Hospital after her. It would be a generous gesture on the part of the Hamilton Health Sciences officials if the name of Henderson Hospital was maintained in conjunction with the Juravinski Cancer Centre. It would be a sad day for a name change just because Henderson has passed away. She deserves to have her memory preserved in the name of Henderson Hospital.
Jacquie Reid

After a vicious attack on me, outside a night club I had my jaw broken. Months later it was the Henderson hospital, where I had the wires removed. It was one of the most pleasant experiences, I've ever had. The nurses and Dr's were so very kind to me. Helpful and respectful. Why would anyone change that memory? Places are named to remember people who have come before us, to show this generation that ONE person can make a difference. It's saddens me to see, names and places can change so easily because people don't respect the heritage behind it all.

Samantha Lauzon, Hamilton

The Henderson name should remain on the hospital in Hamilton. It is a known name and landmark.
Elizabeth Mooney, Hamilton

I am totally opposed to the renaming of the Nora Frances Henerson Hospital after the Juravinskis. Yes, they have been generous, but they have also been suitably honoured & recognized.
Murray Aikman, Hamilton

So much of our local history slips away every day. The renaming of Henderson Hospital is one big, backwards slip on this slope. Nora Henderson definitely deserves to have her name in public prominence in Hamilton. I'm sure that the Jurvanski's do not wish to have their good name debated. The people of Hamilton are very thankful to this family for their generosity. I believe that St. Joseph's Hospital did the right thing in naming a new tower and having their portrait painted in a prominent position at the entrance to the tower. This renaming debacle is enough to sour other contributors or the Jurvanski's themselves.
I am humbled by the many monetary gifts that many have given to HHS and I am embarrassed by the potential re-naming without public debate.
Another fine mess we've gotten ourselves into!
Yours truly, Ruth Nicholson, Waterdown

Nora Frances Henderson did far too much for this city to let her name be taken off of a land mark that was built in her name. There is much in the city named after the people who gave some money and no need to name another building after them.

Thomas Allan, Hamilton

Thank you for putting the website up!!
Ever since I heard about the name change for Henderson Hospital, I've been angry about this!! I was born at Henderson in 1957, as well as my older siblings and have lived on the mountain all my life.
Henderson is an integral part of Hamilton's history, and although I respect the philanthropy of the Juravinskys, enough with naming everything around the city after them!!
If the "powers that be" want to honour the generous donation to Henderson by the Juravinsky's, I think it would be more appropriate in this day and age, to perhaps plant some trees in their honour, or provide a "modest" plaque!...no part of Hamilton's history should be for sale to the highest bidder!!! This goes for Copps Coliseum as well!!
If you look around the city, there are numerous things around here that have been re-named for the Juravinsky's, and I think it's becoming a bit tiresome. Again, I commend them for their generosity, I truly wish I was in their position, but here is where I'm different. If those involved wanted to honour me for a donation I made, I would respectfully ask that some other form be undertaken, like I mentioned above, plant some trees, or erect a plaque, not hang a 20 foot high portrait like down at St. Joe's that basically flies in your face when you enter the facility,(and why hasn't St. Joe's been re-named??) or taking away a piece of history that for many Hamiltonians, is like taking a piece of them away!! I think to re-name Henderson Hospital is truly a big mistake and diminishes Hamilton and it's residents!! Please don't do this!!
Thank you,
Marg Harris
Hamilton Mountain

I believe the name of the Hospital should be Henderson. Why change it, it has an excellent history.
Thanks

Vera Papadopoulos, Hamilton

Reading your 'Other Philanthropists' I perceived an error. Under Ron Joyce the story of coming to Hamilton at 16 may be an urban legend.
Ron, an East Coaster, served in the Royal Canadian Navy on board the HMCS Haida before landing in Hamilton.
G. Ostofi, Waterdown

Editors Notation: The information contained under "Other Philanthropists" was exerts from a Hamilton Spectator article entitled "The Givers: A city with a heart, generosity of time and dollars", first published October 31, 2007 by Meredith MacLeod of The Hamilton Spectator

I appreciate the generosity of the DeGrootes however I am appalled and furious by the proposed renaming of the Henderson Hospital. Surely, we can acknowledge their personal contribution some other way. Name a newly created wing, or annex after them.
Please remember that my tax dollars have and will continue to fund the Henderson Hospital and I resent the loss of a memorial to a great Hamiltonian - MISS HENDERSON!
J. Patterson, Hamilton

Do not change the name of Henderson hospital!

Robert Williamson, Hamilton

Whatever they do, it will always be the Henderson to Hamiltonians. The name should be confirmed as the perpetual name for the Hospital.

Tom Makcan, Hamilton

Valid Arguments

Your arguments are all valid--I agree--keep the Henderson name.
Pat Ormerod, Hamilton

I support retaining the name of Nora Frances Henderson for the Henderson Hospital.

Nina Chapple

If I was being rushed to this hospital in an ambulance I don't think the name of the place would be the last thing on my mind.
Why is Hamilton always trying to live in the bast, some by-gone era.
The most important thing is what goes on inside, despite the legacy of the Henderson name.
One would think that someone willing to invest millions for state-of-the-art equipment and expansion should have his name proudly portrayed to continue with a new legacy for this hospital.

Mark-Alan Whittle, Hamilton

A few years ago, (as an RN from the Henderson site), I was one of a few RN's invited to attend an Hamilton Health Science Board of Directors Retreat; The topic of Henderson's name change, to which I was strongly opposed, was strong on my mind and while chatting with a couple of the board members I approached the topic. The outcome of the conversation was not that the hospital was not only being renamed out of appreciation for the large generous donation but that it had been insinuated that the money would be given with the name change as one of the stipulations. please
Theresa, Hamilton

Henderson is the hospital's name and so it should remain! The cancer clinic is named for the 'J's' and that should be enough. However if they want they can name one of the new wings after them/recognize them with a plaque and a picture of them in the entrance to the hospital.

Susanne Noordyk, Ancaster

What's in a name? EVERYTHING!!!!! the hospital was named after a very important Hamiltonian. I, for one, was born there! We learned about Nora Frances Henderson because of the hospital name. Changing the building's name because of a generous donation will have the whole city called Juravinski this and that. It is very generous of them to donate and the cancer clinic is already named after them, so the hospital site can recognize the generosity of the present philanthropists but, please keep the history, so we can also remember the past! thank you.
Mary Mccracken, Hamilton

Please do not change the name of the Henderson Hospital. Juravinski can be the name of a portion, or a clinic, or the Cancer Centre of the hospital but the name Henderson should not be changed. There is no sense of History in this proposal--why should I endow an institution if I know that my name may be usurped in a few years? Why should anyone?
Mary Anderson, Hamilton

Is it Gender

I cannot really comprehend why the Henderson Hospital's name is even being considered for a renaming. It is quite puzzling! Hmmmmm ... Since the other HHSC hospitals have not been renamed despite massive infusions of private citizen donations, the only conclusion I can come to is GENDER. Would we even be having this discussion if it were the Frank Henderson Hospital.
Christine Lei, Hamilton

Our 4th son, the 5th child, was born at Henderson I had the best treatment there, better than I had for any of the other children. When I heard the name might be changed I felt that this was a shameful thing to do. Henderson Hospital is the only hospital I would object to its name being changed.
Jessie Kaye, Hamilton

Henderson Should Keep It's Name

I agree that the Henderson Hospital should keep it's name... any generous donators could have a building named after them. Please respect the memory and legacy of Nora Frances Henderson.

Leave Nora Alone

Leave Nora alone. Why not change Ivor Wynne Stadium, McMaster University or the Lincoln Alexander Expressway.? The reasons are obvious. Leave our historic site alone. Money is a fleeting thing whereas legacies are designed to last forever.

Colwyn Beynon, Hamilton

Don't change the name of Henderson Hospital out of respect for Ms. Henderson and Hamilton's history!
Lisa DeLong, Hamilton

Henderson Hospital

I agree that Henderson Hospital should be called just that! HENDERSON HOSPITAL Cudos to the Jurvinski's for their wonderful donation to our community hospital. I don't believe it came with a condition to name the hospital after them. They can be recognized in another way.
Donna Paterson, Hamilton

I am appalled that the Henderson's name will be changed ... absolutly appalled and would urge the Board of Directors not to change the name of the Hospital where I was born.
Jan Lukas, Ancaster

Forever Henderson

My opposition to the Henderson name change is long-standing. Sad state of affairs when an individual who made a lifetime commitment to civic duties is usurped by a monetary contribution. Seems like the "30 pieces" referred long ago. Please do not let this happen.
Pat Saunders, Hamilton

What's in a Name?

It’s clear that Nora Frances Henderson was a well respected politician who was the first woman in Canada to be elected to the Board of Control of a municipality. She was a principled individual who worked tirelessly, dedicating her life to improving the lives of others.

She was also instrumental in seeing health care enhanced to serve the mountain residents. She helped blaze the trail for many woman to assume leadership in our community.

In the early 1950’s her contribution to Hamilton was recognized by the naming of the then new Henderson Hospital. It is fitting that an individual who dedicated so much of her life to the community is recognized by having a hospital funded by the taxpayers of that community.

Over the last 55 years, the taxpayers have funded this hospital to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars. It is a publicly funded facility and as a hospital should reflect stability and longevity. After all it doesn’t make sense to regularly change the name of our hospitals!

In the hearts and souls of many residents in our community, the Henderson Hospital will always be the Henderson Hospital. Does it make sense to anyone that a name should be so easily discarded, showing a total lack of respect for pioneers and community benefactors like Nora Frances Henderson?

In 2006, the Hamilton Health Sciences Board (HHSB) decided to change the name of the Henderson Hospital without consulting the broader community. It is unfortunate that the HHSB continue to trample on many local sensitivities. We clearly need to recognize the contributions from individuals. It should not come at the expense of others.

I ask you- do you believe a hospital's name should be up for sale? How do you put value on the work of an individual who sacrificed her life for the public good? Why is it that the HHSB did not consider renaming the General Hospital? Why is it that St. Joseph’s Hospital which also received a significant contribution from the same individual did not change the name of the hospital but recognized the contribution through the naming of a tower? Why is it that de Groote, Joyce and Braley all made significant contributions to McMaster University but the name remains McMaster University?

Tell me what you think.