Three Dorothy Ley Hospice Team Members Honoured by Saint Lazarus Canada
Published: November 5, 2025
On Friday, October 17, 2025, Saint Lazarus Canada recognized 18 outstanding leaders in hospice and healthcare in Toronto, honouring their long-standing contributions and selfless service.
Among those honoured were three members of the Dorothy Ley Hospice team, who were celebrated for their dedication to hospice palliative care.
- Donna Cansfield, Dorothy Ley Hospice Board Chair, was made a Commander in the Companionate of Merit for her pivotal role in securing government funding for hospice residences across Ontario.
- Dr. Louie Mavrogiannis, Medical Director at Dorothy Ley Hospice, was named an Officer in the Companionate of Merit in recognition of his long service and innovative work opening an ambulatory palliative care clinic at the Hospice.
- Dipti Purbhoo, Dorothy Ley Hospice Executive Director, was named a Member in the Companionate of Merit for her dedication to improving end-of-life care and her long-standing service in hospice palliative care.
The Toronto Commandery, the first chapter of the Order of Saint Lazarus established in Canada, has supported hospices across Ontario for many years. With donations from members and fundraising revenue, the Commandery has provided support to Dorothy Ley Hospice and other local hospice and palliative care organizations, helping advance compassionate care for those at the end of life.
The Order of Saint Lazarus of Canada, a jurisdiction of one of the oldest chivalric orders in the world, continues its charitable mission to care for the sick and vulnerable, including those with leprosy, and to advance hospice palliative care across the country.
We are immensely proud to see our team recognized for their commitment, compassion, and leadership in providing exceptional care to our community. Our heartfelt thanks to Saint Lazarus Canada for this meaningful recognition and for their ongoing support of Dorothy Ley Hospice.