Connor’s journey with the QCH Foundation began with a deeply personal experience. When her son was born prematurely, Connor and her family received extraordinary care from everyone at QCH—the nurses, doctors, and even the cleaning staff. Every person who played a part in their journey left a lasting impact. As a nurse herself, Connor recognized how crucial community support is to our healthcare system, especially when it comes to purchasing life-saving equipment. She knew she wanted to give back to the place that had been such a pivotal part of her family’s story.
“I used to be a nurse—well, I guess I still technically am,” Connor chuckles, reflecting on her past. “As a nurse, I understood how much hospitals depend on donors to fund essential equipment, and that’s when the idea of giving back started to take shape.”
Connor’s commitment to making a difference led to the creation of the Putting for Preemies golf tournament, a community fundraiser that supports the Special Care Nursery in the Childbirth Centre at QCH. Her goal for the first year was modest—raise $5,000. But what happened next exceeded all expectations: the event raised an impressive $17,000. In just two years, the tournament has raised over $32,500, helping to fund life-saving equipment for the Special Care Nursery at QCH.
“I was blown away. It was so much more than we expected,” Connor says. “It’s not just about the money—it’s about what the funds help achieve. Last year, we were able to purchase an infant incubator for the nursery.”
“We knew we wanted to do something for the hospital, and we thought golfing is a fun way to bring people together.”
One of the most heartwarming moments at the tournament was when some of the nurses who had cared for her son at the Special Care Nursery came out to show their support. “Seeing Judy, the nurse who took care of my son, was so emotional,” Connor says, her voice cracking slightly. “It was the first time I’d seen her since leaving the Childbirth Centre at QCH, and I just gave her a huge hug.”
The community support is evident, with businesses like her former employer stepping up as title sponsors. “It’s incredible how people want to get involved,” she says. “We’ve created something special that connects with so many, and every year, we get more and more people excited to be a part of it.”
Looking back, Connor believes the Putting for Preemies tournament has made a significant impact on both the hospital and the families who rely on its services. “Our tournament is the only one I know of that directly supports the Special Care Nursery. That’s something important to us. It’s not just about raising funds; it’s about knowing exactly where it’s going and seeing the tangible results,” she says with pride.
The Putting for Preemies Golf Tournament is happening on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Metcalfe Golf and Country Club.
They’re aiming to get up to 144 golfers out to the tournament. There will be a 1pm shotgun start, followed by 18 holes, Cart included, Scramble format, Hickories famous roast beef dinner, swag bag and lots of fun.
“Really, what we’re hoping for is to have a good group of people outside, enjoying a sunny day and raising money for a good cause,” said Connor. “I’m hoping it’s a day filled with a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.”
Registration is $640 per foursome, and there are only four spots left! To register, please contact Connor at connor.gifford@hotmail.com.
For anyone considering volunteering or becoming a fundraiser, Connor has one simple piece of advice: “Do it. The Foundation is so supportive and welcoming. The people are amazing, and you’ll never regret getting involved. It’s such a great way to give back to your community.”
If you’d like to volunteer with the QCH Foundation, please fill out the contact form and provide a resume with more information about your experience.