A Life Honoured: The Cowling Family’s Tribute to Exceptional Care

This is a series to celebrate the community and individual donors who are making the Critical Care Building at NRGH possible.

A Gift in Loving Memory of Linda Dianne Cowling

At Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH), the new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is more than a medical facility—it is a testament to the generosity and gratitude of those who believe in quality healthcare close to home, among its many meaningful contributions, like the patient room dedicated “In Loving Memory of Linda Dianne Cowling.”

For the Cowling family, this is a heartfelt expression of appreciation for the compassionate care they have received and a lasting tribute to Linda, a woman whose warmth and resilience touched so many lives.

Remembering Linda Cowling
Linda Dianne Cowling faced significant medical challenges from a young age after contracting polio, but she never let them define her. Though an injury ended her dream of becoming a teacher, she dedicated her career to supporting students as a school secretary, finding fulfillment in helping others.

She was known for her kindness, determination, and unwavering positivity. Despite ongoing health complications, including diabetes, Linda embraced life fully, cherishing her family and the connections she built in her community. When she passed away in 2015, she left behind not just memories but a lasting impact on those who knew her.

A Family’s Dedication to Giving Back
After Linda’s passing, her husband, Deryck Cowling, and their children, David and Allison, wanted to honour her in a meaningful way. Their connection to NRGH runs deep—Linda’s care, their own medical experiences, and the support their grandchildren have received over the years reinforced their belief in the importance of strong local healthcare.

“We’ve relied on the hospital at every stage of our lives, from childhood illnesses to major surgeries,” Deryck shares. “Supporting the Hospital Foundation was a way to give back to the system that has done so much for our family.” The Cowling family’s generosity ensures that Linda’s name will always be part of a place that provides comfort and healing to others, just as it did for them.

Celebrating the Stories That Made This Possible
The completion of the ICU and High Acuity Unit (HAU) at NRGH is a milestone made possible by donors like the Cowling family—people who understand the profound impact of accessible, high-quality healthcare. Their generosity has helped transform critical care on Central and North Vancouver Island by providing state-of-the-art medical equipment, ensuring patients and their families receive the best possible support when they need it most.

The Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation is deeply grateful for the incredible donors who have come forward to support this project. Each contribution, like the Cowling family’s, carries a story of love, gratitude, and commitment to a healthier future for our community.
To learn more about how donors are shaping healthcare at NRGH, visit nanaimohospitalfoundation.com/critical-care-unit/.