Osler honours William (Bill) Stodolny with Kay Blair Community Service Award

Award named in honour of past Osler Board Chair and passionate hospital champion, Kay Blair

William (Bill) Stodolny, an exceptional volunteer and former member of William Osler Health System’s (Osler) Volunteer Association Board, is this year’s recipient of Osler’s Kay Blair Community Service Award. The recognition was presented to Bill last week at Osler’s annual Going Beyond Awards and Gala - a special celebration recognizing the outstanding contributions of staff, physicians and volunteers who go above and beyond in support of exceptional patient care across Osler.

Presented yearly by Osler’s Board of Directors, the award honours the legacy of the late Kay Blair, a respected community leader and former Chair of Osler’s Board of Directors, who passed away in 2016. Known for her deep commitment to service and her ability to inspire others, Kay Blair believed in the power of individuals working together to strengthen communities. The award recognizes those who embody her values of kindness, understanding, and dedication to improving the lives of others both within and beyond Osler.

Since becoming a volunteer in 2018, Bill has made a meaningful and lasting impact across the organization. Inspired by the compassionate care his late wife received during her chemotherapy treatments at Brampton Civic Hospital, he has dedicated himself to enhancing the experience of patients and families. Bill has played a key role in supporting departments across Osler, including Physiotherapy, Screening and the Volunteer Office. Bill also strengthens community support by improving the visibility and accessibility of donation boxes across Osler’s community and its Women and Children’s Program. Above and beyond, each holiday season, Bill brings warmth and joy to patients by dressing as an elf and delivering cards to those who are in hospital – a gesture that embodies people-centred care.

“Bill represents the very spirit of compassion and service that defines Kay Blair’s legacy,” said Pardeep Singh Gill, Chair of the Board of Directors, William Osler Health System. “His compassion, generosity, and outstanding commitment to others embody the values of the Kay Blair Community Service Award, and his contributions continue to make a meaningful difference to patients, families, and our broader community.”

“Bill’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have,” said Dr. Frank Martino, President and CEO, William Osler Health System. “Through his kindness and dedication, he strengthens Osler’s culture and helps support our Mission of Innovative health care delivered with compassion.”