Cronulla's Marko Franovic wasn't expected to survive two years ago when fell critically ill with COVID-19 at the peak of the pandemic.
As Sutherland Hospital's first COVID-19 patient, Mr Franovic, 81, who was in a coma for 25 days and spent five weeks in ICU, miraculously pulled through.
He wanted to do something for the doctors who saved his life after his near-death experience.
"It was pretty bad," he said. "So I said, 'doctor, you saved my life. What can I do for you? And he said 'build this institution.' "
Mr Franovic generously donated one million dollars to the hospital, as a gesture of appreciation. He received a standing ovation as he presented his cheque at the hospital's fundraising gala on June 25.
"It's to leave something for generations after us," Mr Franovic said.
The Croatian-born resident of the shire, fled communist Yugoslavia in 1961 to build a better life in Australia. Now his major donation means that many patients will benefit from support.
Funds raised from the gala will go towards a new research and education centre and expansion of the oncology day clinic, which treats thousands of cancer patients each year.
Respiratory physician, Andrew Ng, said patients like Mr Franovic, with their "strength of will" was an important factor in being able to recover.
Critical Care Director, Grant Bennett, who helped treat Mr Franovic when he was at his worse, said it was quite a miracle he made a full recovery.
"Our expectation was that he was unlikely to survive," Dr Bennett said. "His lungs and kidneys had failed."
"[This donation], it's a recognition. And all the the staff, doctors, nurses, physios, really appreciate it."
General Manager of Sutherland Hospital, Vicki Weeden, says Mr Franovic's donation is a great kick-start to raising funds.
"It has been wonderful to see Mr Franovic return to full health and on behalf of all the staff at Sutherland Hospital," she said. "I'd like to thank him for his incredibly generous donation and support for our hospital.
"The fundraising gala highlighted the community spirit shown for Sutherland Hospital. We are truly appreciative of our extremely generous community who have always been our biggest supporters."
A major raffle was also announced at the event. First prize is a Toyota Corolla Ascent Hatch, second prize is $5000 travel vouchers and third prize is the entire Gold Class theatre at Event Cinemas Miranda for a night for 48 guests, including popcorn and soft drinks. Details: SESLHD-EngageTSH@health.nsw.gov.au or phone 9540 7251.
