The Paul Kwari Story

Throughout his 35 year career as a community pharmacist, Paul Kwari believed that knowledge and education were essential parts of improving health and the quality of life. Based on this belief, he gravitated towards the goals and objectives of Heart & Stroke and looked for ways to support its mission.

Paul became a long-time supporter and advocate of Heart & Stroke through his involvement in founding and organizing the Stride for Heart Walk at the Hillside Mall. Over the 20 years that he organized the event, over $250,000 was raised in support of the lifesaving Heart and Stroke research.

When Paul retired in 2006, he wanted to find a way to continue his active support of Heart & Stroke. He joined forces with Jeff Jakobsen and started the Stride for Heart Golf Tournament to continue to raise funds and awareness of heart disease and stroke. Jeff learned about the importance of heart health and stroke prevention through the experiences of those close to him. Because of this, he was also looking for a way to support Heart & Stroke.

When Paul passed away unexpectedly in 2009, the Stride for Heart Golf Tournament was renamed in his honour to commemorate his service to Heart & Stroke. Jeff Jakobsen and the Kwari family have grown this event tremendously in its time. Starting from a modest beginning of 4 foursomes and $4,000 raised, to over $66,000 last year and over 120 participants. The Paul Kwari Memorial Golf Tournament is now the largest third party Heart & Stroke fundraising event in British Columbia, raising over $315,000 for vital research and health promotion.

The goal and spirit of the tournament remains even though Paul is not with us anymore. Paul will be remembered for his selflessness, keen sense of giving and commitment to bettering the community around him. He is greatly missed, but the Jakobsen and Kwari families are proud that we are able to continue this event on his behalf to benefit Heart & Stroke. Please join us Thursday May 18th, 2017