Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s Gina Hogan, Anne Mills and Liz Franz ensure Tony Franz’s passion for improving health care in the region lives on. Photo: Supplied.
One man’s dedication to quality health care in the Far North will live on despite his passing, with a donation towards the public sector’s first surgical robot.
The Mills Family Foundation has made a $50,000 donation to the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s (FNQHF) Donate for DaNi campaign, which will bring cutting-edge robotic surgery to the region outside of the private health system.
The heartfelt contribution was made in memory of Tony Franz, who served as the FNQHF CEO for 16 years, and a board member for the Mills Family Foundation.
Wife Liz Franz said the donation was particularly meaningful as her husband was diagnosed with low-grade prostate cancer prior to his death earlier this year.
“We’re so proud that his legacy of care and generosity will continue through this vital advancement in men’s health,” Mrs Franz said.
“He gave so much of himself to this community, [and] I am honoured to support a project that reflects his passion for innovation in health care, and ensures his impact continues in years to come.
“He will always be remembered for his humour, kindness and commitment to making a difference – and hopefully, this donation will help save lives.”
The contribution under Mr Franz’s name was made through the Matching Giving campaign, in which donors Denise and Ellis Richardson pledged to match every dollar donated by the public, turning the $50,000 donation into $100,000.
“Tony devoted so much of himself to improving health care in Far North Queensland. To see his legacy continue through this act of generosity is incredibly moving,” FNQHF CEO Gina Hogan said.
“We are so grateful to Liz and the Mills Family Foundation for honouring Tony in a way that will directly change lives.
“Their compassion and vision ensure his dedication to better care continues to shine through every patient helped by this technology.”
