A shared sense of purpose

Two lives, one decision, and a shared feeling of gratitude converging to shape cardiology research and innovation.

Andrée Crevier and Valère Noël sat down together to tell their story—an experience intertwined with the progress made in cardiology over the years. They have watched as science has advanced in leaps and bounds, influencing their own lives along the way. This momentum has meant the world to them. Its true measure lies in the extra years they were given with Andrée’s father after he had surgery at the Montreal Heart Institute in 1986. Although they didn’t know it then, that was the beginning of a lasting bond with the MHI that has since grown, flourished, and become an organic part of their lives. 

This path has led them to make a joint commitment: a bequest in their will so other people like them can enjoy more time with their own loved ones. 

When Andrée’s father had his surgery, the field of cardiology was undergoing substantial changes. Many improvements were being made in the techniques being used, and cardiologists knew more than ever before. But there were still no guarantees about the future, making the years that would follow even more precious. “His valve ended up lasting 28 years,” said Andrée.

More important than the number itself is the time they shared together, the plans they were able to make good on, and the independence he could continue to enjoy. An experience like this makes medical innovation that much more meaningful, helping people live longer and fuller lives.

A few decades later, another cardiology story emerged, this time even closer to home. It was Andrée’s turn to be wheeled into the operating room to repair a leaky mitral valve. The decision to have the surgery was one she and Valère made together, after a frank conversation with cardiovascular surgeon Michel Pellerin.

“I asked him what we could expect without the operation,” said Valère. “He explained that her life expectancy would be shorter, but surgery could bring it back to a normal range.”

The clear explanations and empathetic approach made them both feel better about the minimally invasive surgery. Everything went well. Her full recovery confirmed that the progress that had been made over the years meant tangible results for patients.

The outcome reinforced their trust in the Institute and inspired deeper reflection: without donors, there are no medical advances. Funding is what enables promising new research avenues to be explored.

During the conversation, Andrée talked about a topic that is near and dear to her heart—literally: cardiovascular health in women. As the medical community learns more, the realities specific to women and women’s hearts are being given greater consideration. With these practices evolving, both she and Valère said they felt compelled to support research in this field.

“The more they understand, the earlier they can do something about it,” Andrée said.

By supporting the Institute, they are helping research teams be able to anticipate future developments, deliver better diagnoses, and tailor the care provided to individual needs. 

Their philanthropic commitment is rooted in a clear philosophy. “When you receive this kind of care, it’s then up to you to pay it forward,” said Valère. Andrée agreed: “It’s a civic responsibility, and we each act on it in whatever way we can.”

For them, it has translated to a gift in their will—an intentional way of making a lasting difference without it affecting their current finances.

“There’s no such thing as a small donation. If everyone who has been treated at the Institute gives back, even a little, the impact would be considerable.”

Andrée and Valère’s philanthropic commitments had long been made individually, but when it came time to redo their wills, it seemed logical to open the topic up to discussion. After over half a century of couplehood, they were naturally inclined to support the same causes. So they chose to align their philanthropy goals and step up their focus on cardiology.

“Now we’re doing this together.”

As they were quick to point out, a will can always be updated. Priorities and circumstances can change over the course of a lifetime. Their planning takes this into account. Contributing to the future of cardiac care is their way of expressing their present-day gratitude.

If Andrée and Valère’s heart could speak, here’s what it would say:

“It comes down to a simple but heartfelt thank-you. Thank you for letting us—letting me—live longer.“ Mr. Noël adds, with emotion: “Thank you for giving me more time with her.”