About Carol Hird
Carol thrived on helping people and had an innate ability to connect with others. Born in Hull, Yorkshire, Carol was drawn to the pursuit of midwifery and nursing, completing her studies in England before emigrating to Canada. Her work throughout the years as a clinician, teacher, administrator, nurse, and advocate in the midwifery movement greatly impacted her community.
Carol was a true leader. She was a champion of the Midwives Association of BC and served on the executive of the International Confederation of Midwives for nine years. Carol was deeply involved with lobbying successfully for the recognition of professional midwifery and its establishment in Canada. In 2005, she received a certificate of honourary membership from the MABC “for her outstanding contribution to the advancement of midwifery in BC”, including her role as President leading to the 23rd ICM Triennial Congress in Vancouver. Throughout her career, including her many achievements and milestones, Carol was most touched by the connections she made with others. Her husband Brian Burtch recounts the hundreds of thank you messages that poured in from those who adored her – a true testament to the legacy she leaves behind.
Carol passed away in the North Shore Hospice on April 29th from a 4-year battle with ovarian cancer. Her loving husband Brian was by her side. Carol leaves behind her stepdaughter Leora Gibson, son-in-law Trent Gibson, three grandchildren (Maeve, Torsten, Ella), her loving family in England and Canada, and so many great friends.
Carol’s husband, Dr. Brian Burtch, encourages everyone to check out a few links that honour Carol’s memory – a beautiful tribute to Carol from her dear friend, Bernie Motut and a video of Carol dancing that truly captures her spirit and zest for life.
If you would like to make a monthly gift in memory of Carol, please complete the following donation form.
The impact of your support
In honour of Carol’s memory, your donation will support a student who is pursuing studies in Midwifery at UBC and are sincerely appreciated. If you would like to make a monthly gift, please complete the following donation form.
Final decisions on award description and student eligibility will be made in consultation with the Hird family
List of Donors
All Donors-
Nicole and Kaeley Postma
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Brian Burtch
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Nadeem Parmar
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Brian Burtch
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Eric Hung
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Sally Thorne
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cornie kennie kuhn
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crystal hurdle
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Brian Burtch
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Brian Burtch
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Johnny and Kelly Kilbride
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Anonymous Donation