Carole Grafstein

One would be hard-pressed to find a more dedicated and visionary philanthropist than Carole Grafstein. Her tireless work on behalf of so many Toronto organizations is inspiring, and her years of commitment to Mount Sinai Hospital are no exception.

Carole has been involved with Mount Sinai for over 50 years, serving on the Hospital Board, the Foundation Board, as President of the Auxiliary and now as a member of the Campaign Cabinet. She is carrying on the tradition of her grandmother ― who was on the executive of the Ezras Noshem Society, the group of Jewish women who travelled door-to-door to raise funds to build the original Mount Sinai Hospital on Yorkville Avenue in 1923.

“There were so many Jewish immigrants in Toronto in the early 1900s, and it was a very difficult time for them,” Carole explains. “Jewish doctors had no place to practice, and these women took it upon themselves to raise the money to create what is now Mount Sinai Hospital.”

Carole remains as dedicated to the Hospital today as when she first became involved – perhaps even more so. “The Jewish community was strengthened because of people who stepped up to support important organizations like Mount Sinai, and I feel strongly that this support needs to continue."

Carole’s passions also extend well beyond the Jewish community. Breast cancer is a key focus for her, and she has helped raise millions of dollars for breast cancer research in Canada. She is an avid supporter of the Marvelle Koffler Breast Centre at Mount Sinai. “Mount Sinai treats over 33,000 patients with breast cancer each year – which makes the Hospital a major player in the treatment of breast cancer in this country,” says Carole. “We established this incredible Koffler Centre, and we have some of the best physicians, the most renowned researchers and greatest treatment facilities, but we need help to maintain this high level of care.”

For all her amazing contributions, Carole received the Order of Canada in 2001. At Mount Sinai, we feel so lucky to have someone so committed to our wonderful Hospital. “To have a supporter who feels as strongly about our organization as we do is pretty incredible,” says Joseph Mapa, President and CEO of Mount Sinai Hospital. “Carole Grafstein has done so much for Mount Sinai, and her tireless efforts have had a very tangible impact on the care we are able to provide for our patients.”

Carole sees great things ahead for Mount Sinai, and remains dedicated to supporting the mission of our Hospital. “When I walk through the lobby of Mount Sinai, I feel very proud. We have persevered through tough times, and here we are ― an internationally renowned health sciences centre that provides extraordinary care to all its patients. I am very proud to be a part of it.”