Groundbreaking Donations to Hospital Foundation
November 30, 2009 - Nanaimo
A brave group of philanthropists, doctors, nurses, and officials demonstrated their commitment to healthcare excellence by braving stormy weather November 18 to attend the official Groundbreaking Celebration of the new Renal Dialysis Unit at NRGH. The group has championed this cause in order to realize the Dialysis Unit’s successful construction by October of 2010. The Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation’s President, Maeve O’Byrne welcomed MLA Ron Cantelon, Dr. Rachel Carson (Kidney Specialist), Joe Stanhope from the Regional District of Nanaimo, and Shelley Garside of the Vancouver Island Health Authority as guest speakers. Each expressed the dire need for in-hospital dialysis treatment for kidney patients north of the Malahat.
The Groundbreaking Event was held to celebrate six of the Foundation’s donors who have led the way in fundraising for the Renal Dialysis Unit. Rob MacKay and Paul Ross, representing Quality Foods and Newman’s Own Foundation presented $4,700 from the sales of Newman’s Own products at Quality Foods’ locations. This contribution marked the first official corporate donation towards the Renal Dialysis Unit. Additionally, Jim Olsen, Ward Stouffer, and Ryner Wilson of Fairwinds Golf Club were on hand to present $87,000 raised at the Foundation’s annual Golf for Life Charity Classic. RBC’s Tim Davidson and Moira Jenkins presented $500 in lieu of Mr. Davidson’s volunteer hours. The Harbour City Seniors – Crafty Workers raised an incredible $3,626 through their handcrafted quilt raffle at their annual Christmas Bazaar.
Many individuals have been personally inspired to donate to the Renal Dialysis Unit; Mr. and Mrs. Randall Jones organized a $25,000 donation on behalf of their philanthropic organization, the Windsor Plywood Foundation and Marni and Don Bold graciously contributed $5,000 after reading about fundraising efforts.
The Foundation has committed to raising $540,000 towards the purchase of twelve haemodialysis machines, two central solution delivery systems, and two portable reverse osmosis units for the Renal Dialysis Unit at NRGH. Together, this equipment does the work of damaged kidneys extending the lives of kidney patients. NRGH is the only regional hospital of its size in Canada without an in-hospital Renal Dialysis Unit.
If you would like to help the Foundation provide lifesaving equipment and services at NRGH, Dufferin Place, Trillium Lodge, and Eagle Park Health Care Facility please call 250-755-7690 or visit www.nanaimohospitalfoundation.com.
For more information contact
Feron Walker at 250-755-7980 or feron@nanaimohospitalfoundation.com.