Above: Joan Graham shares a special moment with her great granddaughter. Joan Graham (née Mason) died peacefully on October 1, 2021, at Kensington Gardens in Toronto.

It was our privilege and honour to care for Joan at Kensington Gardens over the years.

Joan’s 101-year journey left a lasting imprint on many lives, including those at Kensington Health. Now her family wants to give back and support those who cared for their mother and grandmother. 

For those who knew Joan, she was effortlessly patient, open-minded, accepting, loyal and kind. Quick witted, adept with her words and a playful sense of humour, she was deeply committed to her family and cherished by all. Lovingly remembered as a caregiver, an active listener, and a pillar of strength for many. 

As a nurse, Joan trained at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, England, where she worked for over a decade including the war years. She later became a district nurse until she immigrated to Guelph, Ontario in 1957, where she found family and community. 

Joan remained in Guelph for over 50 years. She spent the rest of her career working as a nurse and subsequently as an activity therapist. 

Honouring Joan and her care at Kensington 

The Graham family reached out to the Kensington Health Foundation because they wanted to know what they could do to honour their matriarch’s memory this holiday season. 

As Joan was dedicated to giving back to her community, the idea of making a matching gift in her honour seemed a fitting way for her family to mark her legacy with a donation that will double in impact. 

“Our mother was a nurse, activity therapist and volunteer. She was dedicated to caring for others and giving back to her community,” said her daughter, Brenda Graham. “This holiday season, we wanted to donate so that others can continue to experience Kensington’s great care in their time of need.”

In appreciation for the excellent care Joan experienced at Kensington Gardens, the Graham family have initiated a matching gift in her loving memory. Like Joan, they wish to inspire others to give to back this holiday, knowing that their donations will have double the impact. 

In honour of Joan Graham, holiday donations will be matched up to $10,000, but only until Dec. 31st. 

Help us provide the best possible care for residents and patients like Joan by giving a gift that is doubly meaningful. Support from the Kensington Health community ensures ongoing access to community care. 

“This holiday season, lets honour  our health care heroes and support those who are most vulnerable in our community,” urges Brenda. “Join us in memory of Joan and give the gift of compassionate care.”