Volunteers from the JGH Auxiliary are spending a few minutes each day reading storybooks to babies in Neonatal Intensive Care. Is there any point in reading to an infant who can’t possibly understand what’s being said? Surprisingly, the answer is Yes.

In a survey for Newsweek magazine, the Jewish General Hospital has been ranked among the top 100 hospitals in the world, also placing first in Quebec and fourth among Canadian hospitals.

Intensive Care, where patients’ condition is critical, is an unlikely place to keep a diary. But volunteers with the ICU Diaries Project are giving JGH patients and relatives an emotional outlet and a way of look back through smiles or tears.

Nearly four years after CIUSSS West-Central Montreal came into existence, it has been named one of Montreal’s Top Employers. This makes it one of only about 50 organizations in Montreal—and the only CIUSSS in Quebec—to have been singled out in this way.

Coming in 2019: an online program for JGH patients with scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease characterized by hardening of connective tissues. Included are instructional videos and advice on developing a personalized exercise routine and setting realistic goals.

In 2006, Nancy Rubin was on the brink of retiring, when a new opportunity up-ended her plans. Twelve years later, she’s still is at the helm of The JGH Auxiliary, where she works with a dedicated team of volunteers and professionals for the well-being of patients.

When the JGH opened in 1934, it had two crucial, ongoing needs: a steady source of funding to purchase medical equipment and supplies, and a pool of dedicated volunteers. Both were delivered by the JGH Auxiliary.

Watching your weight, but tempted by holiday treats? No problem. With a little planning and willpower, you can still indulge at the sweet table this season. JGH Nutritionist Patricia Urrico offers tips on what it takes to celebrate sensibly.

Danielle Leggett, an expert in human resources management, has been appointed Executive Director of Hope & Cope and will succeed the retiring Suzanne O’Brien.

Aren’t those teenagers at the JGH awfully young to be medical trainees? Actually, they’re high schoolers in the Auxiliary’s Hospital Opportunity Program for Students. Here’s what some notable HOPS “graduates” have been doing lately.