Part of the Team: RMH Auxiliary supports community’s new MRI

KIM COULTER, Communications Specialist,

Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation

KAWARTHA LAKES: The Ross Memorial Hospital Auxiliary can celebrate a long legacy of hospital support, both through its onsite services which enhance patients’ experiences and its fundraising support for vital hospital needs.

Today, the Auxiliary is helping to meet the community’s need for a new MRI with a donation of $40,000. These are funds raised through the Ross Family & Friends 50/50 Raffle and sales in the Reflections Gift Shop and Cafe. 50/50 Committee members Karen Simser, Nelia Steward and Jan Morrison, presented the gift to RMH Foundation Board Chair Ryan O’Neill and RMH Foundation CEO Erin Coons.

“Every member of the Auxiliary has their own reason for giving back to the hospital. We’re glad the Ross Family & Friends 50/50 reaches even more people who want to give back, including our cottage community,” said Karen Simser, 50/50 Committee Chair.

“We wouldn’t be able to donate these funds for our new MRI if it weren’t for the wonderful response we’ve had from everyone playing the 50/50 and those who visit the gift shop and café in the hospital. Every purchase helps us support the Ross.”

Magnetic Resonance Imaging helps physicians confidently diagnose disease and injury in the brain, spine, joints, breasts and organs. It’s a vital tool for detecting herniated or bulging disks, arthritic changes, and cancer. More than 500 patient exams are scanned at the Ross every month. The community’s MRI is now 11 years old and must be replaced; however, government funding doesn’t cover the $2.5 million cost.

“This incredible donation from the volunteers is welcome support for the community’s effort to bring the latest MRI technology to the Ross,” said Ryan O’Neill. “We want our hospital to have the best medical equipment possible, so patients continue to have access to the best care close to home. We’re grateful to our partners in the Ross Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, who volunteer their time and services to advance patient care. Their efforts impact everyone in the City of Kawartha Lakes.”

Tickets for the Ross Family & Friends 50/50 are currently on sale. To learn more about the 50/50 raffle or the spring appeal to fund the new MRI, please visit www.rmh.org.

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