At Health Sciences Centre, Brian Scharfstein has quietly worked behind the scenes as a longtime donor and volunteer, making sure patients are comfortable.

As a certified pedorothist, Brian not only supports HSC Foundation financially as a sponsor of the Gift of Hope Radiothon, but contributes his time and expertise to help Dr. John Embil at HSC’s Diabetic Foot and Complicated Wound Clinic.

“I feel that when you support HSC it’s easy to see the difference your contribution makes because the funds are typically spent on tangible items and not administrative costs,” he said. “I’ve found that $10 or $1 million, the Foundation shows consistent appreciation and recognition, because it all makes a difference.”

In addition to his work with Dr. Embil, Brian took on other projects at HSC, including the redevelopment of the Clothing Depot located in the PsycHealth Centre. The Clothing Depot provides new and gently used clothes and shoes for patients who need items for their discharge from HSC.

“Being here has allowed me to understand the commitment and dedication of the people who work here every day. Most people don’t have the opportunity to recognize this experience unless they come here as a patient, but volunteering has given me that opportunity to appreciate the inside.”

“I’ve been a patient at HSC and have had family here on more than one occasion, so I also understand the complexity of what goes on here from the perspective of the patient,” said Brian. “In my mind, HSC has always set the bar high and I find there is no compromise when it comes to patient care. I can genuinely say everyone at HSC is caring and has a good attitude.