Alberta Children’s Hospital marks 20 years of caring

October 6, 2026

Celebrating two decades of excellence at Alberta Children’s Hospital are, from left: Justine Clay, VP, Marketing, Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation; Jo Ann Beckie, ACH Senior Operating Officer; Margaret Fullerton, former ACH Senior Operating Officer; Dr. Brent Scott, former ACH Head of Pediatrics; Dr. David Chaulk, ACH Medical Director and former patient Zak Madell.

Celebrating two decades of excellence at Alberta Children’s Hospital are, from left: Justine Clay, VP, Marketing, Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation; Jo Ann Beckie, ACH Senior Operating Officer; Margaret Fullerton, former ACH Senior Operating Officer; Dr. Brent Scott, former ACH Head of Pediatrics; Dr. David Chaulk, ACH Medical Director and former patient Zak Madell. Photo by Aileen Gautron.

Sharing stories during the celebration were Dr. David Chaulk, left, former patient Zak Madell and his mom Wendy. At age 10, Madell lost his legs and fingers after developing a severe staph infection. He recalled being transferred to Calgary during a snowstorm by Dr. David Chaulk, the transport physician involved in his care that night, and now the hospital’s medical director.

Sharing stories during the celebration were Dr. David Chaulk, left, former patient Zak Madell and his mom Wendy. At age 10, Madell lost his legs and fingers after developing a severe staph infection. He recalled being transferred to Calgary during a snowstorm by Dr. David Chaulk, the transport physician involved in his care that night, and now the hospital’s medical director. Photo by Aileen Gautron.

‘The people in this hospital deserve medals’

Story by Melanie Veriotes | Photos by Aileen Gautron

CALGARY — The Alberta Children’s Hospital (ACH) marked the 20th anniversary of its move to its current location by bringing together staff, physicians, leaders, patients and supporters to reflect on two decades of care, innovation and partnership. Although the hospital’s history dates back to 1922, the anniversary celebrated 20 years at the current site, which opened in September 2006.

“This milestone belongs to all of us,” said Jo Ann Beckie, senior operating officer, ACH. “It reminds us that the Alberta Children’s Hospital is much more than a building.”

She added that the anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on the hospital’s impact over the past 20 years and the shared commitment that continues to unite teams in caring for children and families. That sense of shared purpose proved a common theme throughout the celebration, particularly among those who helped bring the new hospital to life in 2006.

Looking back on the move from the former Richmond Road site, Hospital Medical Director Dr. David Chaulk recalled the excitement and uncertainty that came with relocating patients, staff and services to a brand-new facility. “There was a feeling that we were part of something significant.”

Dr. Brent Scott, head of pediatrics at the time of the hospital’s opening, remembered the extensive planning required to ensure every child arrived safely. On Sept. 27, 2006, each patient had an individualized care plan and teams across the organization were united by a single goal — safely transferring every child to their new hospital. By the end of the day, 51 children had successfully made the journey.

For many involved, that moment remains unforgettable. Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation Vice-President of Marketing Justine Clay recalled hearing the final overhead page announcing that the last patient had arrived safely, followed by a simple message: “Good work everyone.”

Former ACH Senior Operating Officer Margaret Fullerton reflected on the optimism that surrounded the opening of the new hospital. “If you build it, they will come,” she said, recalling the belief that a new children's hospital would become a destination for exceptional care, research and teaching. She noted that strong partnerships between healthcare and support teams, together with support from the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation, have helped turn that vision into reality over the past 20 years.

One of the most moving moments of the event came from former patient Zak Madell, who was among the first children to receive care at the new Alberta Children’s Hospital after it opened in 2006. At age 10, Madell lost his legs and fingers after developing a severe staph infection. He recalled being transferred to Calgary during a snowstorm by Dr. David Chaulk, the transport physician involved in his care that night, and now the hospital’s medical director. Looking back, Madell said the care and support he received, including from Dr. Chaulk, “helped me become the person I am today.”

Returning to the hospital 20 years later, Madell reflected on what he remembered most. While the bright new building left an impression, it was the people who stood out. “So many became friends,” he said. “People whose names I still remember. They helped me through things no kid should have to face.”

Today, Madell serves as a mentor to emerging athletes following a remarkable wheelchair rugby career that saw him represent Canada at four Paralympic Games and earn multiple Paralympic, Parapan American and world championship medals. Looking back on his journey, he credits the care and support he received as a child with helping make that future possible.

“The people in this hospital deserve medals,” he said. “When you were caring for a very sick 10-year-old, you kept fighting for the possibility of a future. Thank you for doing the same for the next kid who needs you.”

His words captured the spirit of the celebration and the legacy of the Alberta Children’s Hospital over the past 20 years. While much has changed since the first 51 patients arrived at ACH, the hospital's purpose remains the same — helping children achieve the healthiest future possible.

As Dr. Chaulk reflected: “For all of the work we do, there is hope.”