Laughter is the best medicine, so they say.
A cheque for $25,000 was presented virtually to the Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation by Tay council recently to great appreciation by the recipients.
Mayor Ted Walker welcomed foundation executive director Nicole Kraftscik and Angie Saini during a presentation as staff held up an oversized cheque for the camera.
“The township has a commitment for doing partial funding for GBGH through the foundation. I want to present this year’s pledge of $25,000. It’s unfortunate we can’t be there,” said Walker with a touch of sadness, just as he was interrupted happily by Kraftscik.
“Can I take a picture?” asked Kraftscik in glee, raising her phone.
“Yes, actually. Yes,” replied Walker with humour. “Lindsay (Barron, CAO) is holding it up.”
The impromptu photo opportunity lightened the virtual meeting considerably, with council and foundation representatives continuing on with higher spirits.
Walker reiterated the township’s appreciation toward GBGH services, expressing gratitude for the hospital for enduring throughout the pandemic.
“I just wanted to say how happy we are to be able to support you with some financial contributions, and thank you for all you do, “said Walker. “The nurses, the staff, the doctors, especially over these past 18 months, I know it’s been a challenge. And you’ve done a spectacular job. We’re just very thankful to be able to call GBGH our hospital.”
Kraftscik shared her thanks back to council.
“For all of you here, I think it’s important you know you’ve funded over $368,000 to GBGH in lifetime givings. That’s incredible loyalty and commitment to the hospital and this community, so thank you,” said Kraftscik.
In heartfelt gratitude, Saini shared how difficult times were over the past year and a half.
“I can tell you that what really inspires the nurses, what really keeps the team going, is the support from the community,” Saini mentioned. “I think when we did receive messages as we were going through the really low lows, I think that’s something that really buoyed our spirits; I can tell you that from personal experience and from what I’ve heard from the front line staff.
Saini told council how the $25,000 Tay donation would go toward the cost of defibrillators, crash carts, and end-of-life equipment. Kraftscik provided a big picture overview of the $8 million Meditech Expanse electronic medical record project, and the $1.3 million ICU central monitoring system project as goals the GBGH Foundation is working toward.
“The foundation last year raised about $4.3 million, and our stretch goal this year is $5.3 million, and we need to raise that money to make sure we have the equipment that we need,” stated Kraftscik.
Within the presentation, lighthearted remarks were made toward Deputy Mayor Gerard LaChapelle for his personal involvement with the GBGH Foundation.
“For as much as I tease him,” Walker explained, “(LaChapelle) has been instrumental in significant fundraising initiatives for the hospital, and he’s carrying that on this year as well. We’re happy to have him as our deputy mayor, and are proud of his efforts for GBGH.”
It was recognition which allowed LaChapelle to give a quiet thumbs up on screen for the attendees.
In June, neighbouring Tiny Township also contributed a $20,000 donation to the GBGH Foundation.
On August 21, the GBGH Foundation is hosting the Power of Giving Virtual Gala in hopes to raise $450,000 for the Foundation’s Impact Fund, which ensures that exceptional care continues for community patients. Heart-warming stories, entertainment, live fundraising, surprises, and an online auction are on the schedule. Registration is free.
Further details about the gala are available on the Give 2 GBGH website.
