Rockyview marks diamond jubilee in Calgary

Hospital staff gather to celebrate 60 years of care with cake and memories

Story by Blain Fairbairn

CALGARY — Flashback to the mid-1960s and life for the average Calgarian wasn’t all that different from today: high inflation, rising grocery prices and continued suburban expansion. But there was reason to celebrate when the city’s newest hospital opened in fall 1966.

And there was reason to celebrate again this October when staff, physicians and volunteers gathered to commemorate Rockyview General Hospital’s rich legacy of care and community at its 60th anniversary party.

Perched above the city’s Glenmore Reservoir with stunning views of the mountains, the aptly named hospital has evolved from 80-beds at opening into a 650-bed site that’s become a renowned leader in specialties including ophthalmology and urology care.

Jennifer Coulthard is the site’s senior operating officer. She, along with leadership from across the site, appreciated the opportunity to meet with the diverse spectrum of folks who dropped by the Highwood Cafeteria to enjoy some cake and company.

“This is a really special occasion to reflect on the generations of staff and physicians who have cared for patients through moments of uncertainty and hope,” she says.

“Over the past six decades we have pioneered new treatments, trained future healthcare professionals, responded to public health challenges, and continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of our communities. Honouring that legacy of excellence gives us renewed purpose so that, 60 years from now, folks here can look back with pride at all that we accomplished.”

Congratulations to Rockyview General Hospital on its diamond jubilee and for the outstanding care it provides Albertans every day.