BGHF Chair Peter Knudsen says the new equipment that has been purchased with help from the community will be more convenient for staff and patients. (Photo: Brock Ormond/Quinte News)
It takes a whole community to support people in need and that’s exactly what the people of Belleville have done to help an important medical cause over the past four years.
The success of the Belleville General Hospital Foundation’s recently completed Together, We’re Better Campaign was celebrated Thursday evening.
The campaign, which ran from September 2013 to December 2017, saw $13 million raised through the generosity of over 13,400 community donors and volunteers at the hospital. That surpassed the original goal of $12 million.
With that money, BGH was able to purchase essential new technology, including a CT scanner, refurbishment of the MRI machine, x-ray equipment and other life-saving medical equipment like scopes and vital signs machines.
Quinte Health Care President and CEO Mary Clare Egberts says the generosity of the Quinte community in coming together to supporting local health care is greatly appreciated. (Photo: Brock Ormond/Quinte News)
Quinte Health Care President and CEO Mary Clare Egberts says it speaks to the kindness and generosity of the Quinte community that they would help assist in providing the best up-to-date tools for local health care.
Bob Leonard, a local cancer survivor, talked about his journey and the positive experiences he has had with Belleville General Hospital. (Photo: Brock Ormond/Quinte News)
The evening featured a speech from Bob Leonard, a Belleville resident and cancer survivor who spoke about his positive experiences with staff and volunteers at BGH and the importance of supporting the hospital.
Leonard made a special point of mentioning Dr. Richard Levesque, who he considered “the captain” of BGH’s oncology department.
Egberts says it was inspiring to hear someone like Leonard talk about his journey.
BGHF Board Chair Peter Knudsen says these machines are more expensive, but are much more capable and convenient for staff and patients.
Head of Oncology at Quinte Health Care Dr. Richard Levesque showcases a carving one of his patients made to show how important giving back to local care really is. (Photo: Brock Ormond/Quinte News)
Another highlight of the celebration featured Dr. Levesque showcasing a carving of a previous cancer patient’s to do list to inspire people to continue giving back to local health care.
Next on the docket for the BGH Foundation is the reveal of their 2018 Gala theme, fund-a-need goal and the introduction of this year’s board committee, which will all commence on Monday, June 25.
