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Richmond Hospital: a personal connection
Steve Wong, a Senior Project Manager with the Richmond Hospital Redevelopment Project, holds a special connection to this project as a local resident who grew up in the community. This is his story.
Born and raised in Richmond, I spent my childhood alongside my sister, parents, grandparents and our dog Max. My parents immigrated from Hong Kong and came to Canada after completing university in the U.S. I had the quintessential 80s upbringing, going to church on Sundays and doing extracurricular activities like piano and competitive swimming.
Richmond Hospital has always been my hometown hospital and a cornerstone for care for me and my family. I even vividly remember a visit to the emergency room during my teenage years.
Navigating life’s journey
After obtaining a degree in biochemistry, I worked in the biotech industry doing lab work and sales. When the financial crisis of 2008 shook the job market, I was laid off and uncertain about what to do next.
I ended up working as a youth outreach worker in the Downtown Eastside supporting women’s and children’s programs, including project management on the construction of The Sanctuary, a women’s recovery centre. This was an eye opening experience and sparked a passion within me to help others. Eventually, I transitioned into construction, where I gained experience as a general contractor working on residential projects.
Then one day, a friend told me about a job posting to work on the BC Children’s and BC Women’s Hospital Redevelopment Project. I jumped at the opportunity, got the job and re-started my career in hospital redevelopment. Since then, I’ve worked on the BC Children’s Hospital Teck Acute Care tower, the Sunny Hill Health Centre, the Royal Columbian Hospital Redevelopment Project and now Richmond Hospital.
Richmond Hospital: a personal connection
When I first joined the Richmond project, I didn't anticipate the emotional impact it would have on me. Many memories have been created within these hospital walls and being in these spaces brings the memories back. I know the exact spots where I saw my grandparents for the last time and the exact rooms where both of my daughters were born. Having the opportunity to contribute to the future of this place holds personal significance for me.
Steve's daughters at Richmond Hospital, Jamie holding new born baby Hanna. Photo taken September 1, 2018.
Steve in the future Cancer Care Clinic, part of Phase One of the Richmond Hospital Redevelopment Project.
Steve and Yaser review floor plans for the Cancer Care Clinic at Richmond Hospital.
Steve standing in front of the future location of the UBC Faculty of Medicine Medical Education Centre at Richmond Hospital.
Relationships are everything
As project managers, our goal is to deliver a valuable tool for care teams, to support exceptional care for others. While our daily tasks involve schedules, budgets and site reviews, when we take a step back, everything we do revolves around building relationships.
Establishing meaningful connections with our teams is crucial, particularly when discussing how designs may impact clinical workflows or addressing construction related concerns. I strive to maintain a positive mindset, valuing everyone's input.
Ongoing projects
I'm focused on two projects: the Cancer Care Clinic renovation and the UBC Faculty of Medicine Medical Education Centre. Both are part of Phase One to prepare the campus for upcoming construction of the Yurkovich Family Pavilion, a nine-floor acute care tower.
The Cancer Care Clinic is projected to be completed later this year and the UBC Faculty of Medicine Medical Education Centre in mid-2024.
Hometown pride
Working on my hometown hospital fills me with an immense sense of pride. Having grown up in Richmond and now raising my own family of four here, I know that this hospital will remain an integral part of our lives for years to come.