Image: Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation / Petra Pardy (left to right), executive director of Chilliwack Health Services, is pictured with Amanda Munro, a family friend of Jens Bak Paulsen, and Dr. Paul Mallam, treasurer of the Chilliwack Medical Staff Association, to inaugurate the recently opened staff gym facility at Chilliwack General Hospital. The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation says the recently inaugurated staff gym facility at Chilliwack General Hospital, made possible by funds from FVHCF and the Chilliwack Medical Staff Association (CMSA), stands as a testament to the remarkable life and legacy of Jens Bak Paulsen, an extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark on the health care community.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

New gym at Chilliwack Hospital

New staff gym opens at Chilliwack General Hospital

Sep 27, 2023 | 12:46 PM

CHILLIWACK — The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation says the recently inaugurated staff gym facility at Chilliwack General Hospital, made possible by funds from FVHCF and the Chilliwack Medical Staff Association (CMSA), stands as a testament to the remarkable life and legacy of Jens Bak Paulsen, an extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark on the health care community.

The foundation wrote in a news release Wednesday (Sept. 27) that Paulsen, a man characterized by his warmth, humor, and boundless generosity. His genuine love for connecting with others was apparent, even though he maintained a quiet and somewhat reserved demeanor. Originally hailing from Denmark, Paulsen was one of 17 siblings and arrived in Canada at the age of 19. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Lillian, and although they couldn’t have children of their own, they filled their lives with the things they loved and that brought them joy.

FVHCF says Paulsen never forgot the exceptional care Lillian received at the Chilliwack General Hospital, and he deeply respected the hospital’s commitment to high-quality care. This experience inspired him to advocate for better healthcare facilities in Chilliwack, particularly for cases like his own.

Tragically, Paulsen was involved in a severe accident while returning home from work, resulting in the amputation of his leg. He was initially rushed to the Chilliwack General Hospital, where dedicated efforts were made to save his leg. However, due to the severity of the injury, he was transferred to Abbotsford. This experience further fueled his determination to improve healthcare services in his community.

“Jens Bak Paulsen left an enduring impression on the hearts of many,” FVHCF wrote in a statement. “He lived a simple, beautiful life with wife Lillian, and it is fitting that his legacy now extends to the gym facility made possible by his generous donation. This facility will undoubtedly benefit countless individuals, ensuring that Jens and Lillian’s memory lives on as an incredible legacy for the Chilliwack community.”

B.C. LEADERSHIP RACE

Langley-Abbotsford MLA considers run for BC Conservative leadership

2h ago

Traffic alert Friday

B.C. govt. urges people not to travel if at all possible, citing heavy traffic on Hwy. 7

3h ago

RETAIL THEFT

Police arrest four alleged shoplifters in one hour in Maple Ridge store

3h ago

Dr. Paul Mallam, treasurer of the Chilliwack Medical Staff Association, added, “Promoting a healthy lifestyle is essential for our community’s well-being, and this gym facility will serve as a valuable resource for physicians and hospital staff alike. We are excited provide the respite our staff need and to witness the positive impact it will have on them.”

“We are thrilled to see this gym come to life. Jens Bak Paulsen’s generosity has truly made a difference in our community, and we are grateful for his support,” said Liz Harris, executive director of FVHCF. “His generosity has also allowed us to fund an bus for Heritage Village long term Care, the Primary Care Clinic and the medical imaging department. Jens truly influenced health care in Chilliwack in a pronounced way.”

The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing healthcare services in the Fraser Valley region. The foundation works in partnership with donors, volunteers, and healthcare professionals to fundraise and allocate resources that support patient care, research, education, and equipment needs across a wide range of healthcare services.

If you would like to donate to support your local hospital, visit the website at www.fvhcf.ca/donate, call 1-877-661-0314 or in person at their CGH office. All funds raised in your community go to support healthcare in the Fraser Valley community.