The 2025 Bourses du Coeur Tony-Meti: celebrating one man’s legacy by encouraging ongoing professional development

It all started in 1999 when philanthropist Antonio, aka Tony, Meti invited a group of friends, colleagues, and members of the Italian community to take part in a fundraiser for the MHI. It quickly established itself as a major annual event with funds raised initially being used to finance the purchase of medical equipment and support the MHI’s targeted projects. 

After meeting with a young researcher in cardiology in 2002, Mr. Meti decided to transform the fundraiser into a scholarship program dedicated to supporting physicians who wanted to hone their skills abroad. The goal was for them to share their newfound expertise at the MHI to ultimately enhance patient care.  

Mr. Meti underwent heart surgery at the MHI in 1998. He then spent more than 15 years supporting the next generation of medical professionals. He also sat on the Foundation’s board for two decades where his compassion, diligence, and generosity left an immense impression.  

Since it was created, the Bourses du Cœur Tony-Meti have been awarded to 42 exceptional professionals who promote excellence in cardiology here and internationally. 

Colleagues, partners, loved ones, donors, and members of Mr. Meti’s family gathered at the Espace Martial-G.-Bourassa to pay tribute to this inspiring man. Moreover, the 2025 edition marked a symbolic milestone: it was the first time the scholarships bore his name. A nod to the MHI’s desire to perpetuate Mr. Meti’s legacy. 

Alain Gignac, President and CEO of the MHI Foundation, began the ceremony by highlighting Mr. Meti’s exceptional career and the scope of his philanthropic dedication. He noted how the donations collected over the past 40 years have led to major advances, in particular in personalized medicine. 

“Mr. Meti’s humanity, devotion to excellence, and generosity have left an indelible mark on our history. Thanks to his vision, the Bourses du Cœur now enable exceptional physicians to push the boundaries of what is possible, all to the benefit of patients,” he said. 

Dr. Peter Guerra is chair of the Bourses du Cœur Tony-Meti committee. He reminded attendees of the long-lasting impact of Mr. Meti’s dedication. Tony Meti’s son, Dr. Nicholas Meti, delivered a moving testimonial filled with gratitude, emphasizing the importance of the scholarships in the careers of young physicians. 

Dr. Paul Khairy was the first physician to receive the scholarship. Today he is a renowned researcher and electrophysiologist. He shared some memorable moments and talked about the strong bond he developed with Mr. Meti, and how Mr. Meti followed his progress with pride. 

This year, a $50,000 scholarship was awarded to Dr. Ana Stoica who will be undertaking specialized training in cardiothoracic imaging in Vancouver where she will be honing her knowledge of structural cardiac CT and artificial intelligence technologies. She will then join the MHI’s medical imaging department. 

A $25,000 scholarship was awarded to Dr. Sohani, who will be spending a year training at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota focusing on complex cardiovascular infections. 

Their work will lead to a better understanding and treatment of heart disease, to the benefit of many patients. 

The Bourses du Cœur Tony-Meti are more than scholarships. They are a way to ensure that knowledge continues to be shared. They are also a way to honour the vision of a man who strongly believed in supporting young medical professionals and using science to transform lives. Mr. Meti’s legacy will continue to inspire a new generation of dedicated health care professionals who will go on to put innovation, compassion, and excellence at the very heart of their practice.