About Lola Stein

Lola Stein was one of the early female pharmacists in South Africa, but her very special talent was in hospitality and friendship. She cared for friends and family, at home and across the globe, individually, uniquely and lovingly.

When she passed away, one friend chose to honor her memory in a way that would also reach around the world. This was the seed of sharing educational materials developed at the Lola Stein Institute in Toronto.

Lola's husband, Mannie Stein, was a renowned surgeon in South Africa.  It is meaningful to see how his words and mindset reflect the philosophy of the Lola Stein Institute.  In his memoir, Mindful of the Miracle, he writes:

…The most sophisticated medical tools would be of little or no use without the best diagnostic instruments:  our five senses, our wits, our judgement, and our confidence to ask as many questions as were needed to get at the problem.