Hospital campaign snaps fundraising goal

Amherst Daily News

By Chris Dowbiggin

AMHERST- The Light the Way Committee of the Cumberland Health Care Foundation reached its stretch goal of $100,000 in its 2010 fundraising campaign.
The 13-year-old campaign managed to raise $112,000 for the purchase of much needed medical equipment for the Cumberland Regional Health Centre, and has now raised more than $780,000 since its official launch in 1997.
Joe Gauthier, Managing Director for the Cumberland Health Care Foundation said it was the mythical golden mark to achieve.
“We’re always astounded by the generosity and caring shown from community members in Cumberland and beyond each year. This year we’re a bit more in awe than normal.”
Hospital donations have led to the purchase of medical equipment such as ICU beds, defibrillators, an infant incubator and even a Urology clinic.
“We’re extremely happy with the results but we’re also very thankful to the many generous donors who have given the gift of health and hope to someone who else this past holiday season,” said Gwen Kerr, Foundation Chair.
The 2010 event launched on Dec. 1, drawing close to 400 attendees. Children took part in fun activities, such as face painting  and musical entertainment.
Event partnerships with the Amherst Ramblers and the Port Greville Living Christmas Tree Singers boosted support for the campaign.
Kerr said the most touching event of the campaign was the private launch on Nov. 30 for current hospital patients and their loved ones.
“We had approximately 24 patients come from the units and it was extremely touching to see their enjoyment of the music from the hospital choir, the Fella’s Choir, and the testing of the lights show itself.”
There is still more than 3 million dollars in unfunded medical equipment remaining on the hospital’s equipment list, so additional donations will go towards acquiring the listed items.