Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children has launched a billion dollar fundraiser to rebuild its home on University Avenue.

The building was erected in 1949. Sick Kids moved in two years later. In launching its fundraising push, the hospital says 21st century medicine shouldn't be held back by a building's age.

SickKids is looking to raise $1.3 billion, much of which will go to the makeover.

Already, $570 million in donations and pledges has been secured.

It is expected to take 10 years to complete. "We're committed to continuing to provide services on our site. That is one of the reasons why this is a very complicated project that will take a decade to complete. We do not expect to close any services over that time frame or move patients to other care centres," say SickKids CEO Dr. Mike Apkon.

To donate to SickKids, go to their website.