Care his wife received at Brampton Civic inspires award-winning volunteer work

A volunteer inspired by the care his late wife received at Brampton Civic Hospital has been recognized with one of William Osler Health System’s top community service awards.

William “Bill” Stodolny received Osler’s 2026 Kay Blair Community Service Award during the hospital network’s annual Going Beyond Awards and Gala, which celebrates staff, physicians and volunteers who contribute to patient care across the system.

Stodolny began volunteering with Osler in 2018 after his late wife underwent chemotherapy treatment at Brampton Civic Hospital. According to the hospital, the experience inspired him to give back by helping improve the experience of patients and families.

Since then, Stodolny has supported several departments across the hospital system, including Physiotherapy, Screening and the Volunteer Office. He has also worked to improve the visibility and accessibility of donation boxes supporting Osler programs, including the Women and Children’s Program.

Hospital officials said he is also known for spreading holiday cheer each year by dressing as an elf and delivering cards to patients spending the holidays in hospital.

“Bill represents the very spirit of compassion and service that defines Kay Blair’s legacy,” said Pardeep Singh Gill, chair of Osler’s board of directors, in a statement.

The annual award is presented by Osler’s Board of Directors and honours the legacy of the late Kay Blair, a former board chair and community leader remembered for her dedication to volunteerism and community service.

“Bill’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have,” said Dr. Frank Martino, president and CEO of 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.”

From left to right: Pardeep Singh Gill, Chair of the Board of Directors, William Osler Health System; William (Bill) Stodolny, 2025 Kay Blair Community Service Award recipient; and Dr. Frank Martino, President and CEO, William Osler Health System.