One in five Canadians live with chronic pain, a condition that can affect every part of life, from relationships to work to mental health. At St. Paul’s Hospital, clinician-scientist Dr. May Ong is charting a new path forward with support from a $1 million gift from the Leon Judah Blackmore Foundation.
This gift strengthens a pain program that’s already changing lives, empowering it to advance innovative therapies, deepen research and inspire similar models across Canada. In recognition of this generosity, St. Paul’s Foundation is proud to name the Leon Judah Blackmore Centralized Pain Treatment Unit in their honour.
“Under Dr. Ong’s leadership, we have confidence that the impact will be significant,” says Nicola Brailsford, CEO & trustee, Leon Judah Blackmore Foundation. “This gift gives her vision the legs it needs to change lives across British Columbia.”
The Leon Judah Blackmore Foundation: From personal acts of kindness to strategic giving
Leon Blackmore believed in doing the right thing and in helping others live better lives. Nicola, his colleague and friend for more than 30 years, describes him as a man of principles and integrity, with philanthropic values rooted in compassion, responsibility, and service to the greater good.
He held deep respect for science and the people behind it, giving generously to advance health care and medical research. Leon also had a soft spot for animals, regularly supporting organizations that cared for their welfare.
“He lived a life of giving. Not just through money or funding, but also through time and advice,” Nicola recalls. “If he had knowledge or insight, he felt it was his responsibility to share it. He never stood on the sidelines; he was involved.”