Our founder
When Dr. Paul David founded the Montreal Heart Institute in 1954, he created a profoundly human-focused institute right from the start. For 45 years, he was the heart and soul of this institute. When he died in 1999, he left his successors with an invaluable legacy.
The Grey Nuns
While busy with the construction of the new Hôpital Maisonneuve in Montreal's east end, the Grey Nuns asked Dr. Paul David to direct its cardiology department. They gave him carte blanche to create the space he wanted, and they agreed that his service could be an independent entity .
From birth to growth of the Montreal Heart Institute
When the Montreal Heart Institute was inaugurated in 1954, it occupied two floors of the Hôpital Maisonneuve , which had just opened its doors. With 42 beds, the Institute was the largest cardiology centre in the country. At the time, the medical team was made up of three cardiologists and two surgeons.
Community support
In 1969, prominent Montreal businessman Jean-Louis Lévesque was impressed by Dr. David's accomplishments. To promote research in cardiology, Mr. Lévesque donated $1 million to the young institution. This unexpected philanthropic gesture forever changed the fate of the Montreal Heart Institute, which saw its research budget double overnight.
Some key dates
Browse this page to discover some key dates that have marked the history and growth of the Montreal Heart Institute.
World firsts at the Montreal Heart Institute
The Montreal Heart Institute has continually made a mark on the international scene wi world firsts.
Canadian firsts at the Montreal Heart Institute
The Montreal Heart Institute has continually made a mark in Canada. Browse this page to discover more about some of the MHI's canadian firsts.