As a successful 2011 draws to a close, the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation already has its eyes cast towards 2012.
The foundation has released its wish list of items for the upcoming year and will be coming to the public for the roughly $233,000 it will take to cover those needs. The release from the foundation also noted they were able to purchase $172,730 in much needed items for the hospital in 2011 and director Roxy Blackmore said the credit for that success belongs to the public.
"It's because of them that we are able to do this," said Blackmore. "They did all of this for us. The scary thing is if we didn't have a foundation, where would this money come from? These things wouldn't be bought and if we are looking at regional status we need good everything."
Among the items purchased in 2011 were a whirlpool tub for the day hospital, telemetry unit, new kitchen equipment and other items that became urgent needs due to them breaking or wearing out.
As for 2012, Blackmore said every item is equally important but there are a couple of pressing matters for the hospital.
"There are about 40,000 patients that go through the lab at the hospital each year and with the growth of the community that goes up as well. That is one of our busiest places so I am really wanting the blood bank fridge and two ECG machines," she said.
"The other thing people have to remember is the hospital was built 20 years ago and at that time everything was new. Now everything is 20-years-old and everything is breaking down at the same time. As much as we needed it back then, we need it again. So it is a constantly changing list and it is not cheap."
Other items of note include a new anesthetic machine which has a price tag of $90,000, bedside monitors for Unit A which come at a cost of $53,000 and $12,000 for Telehealth equipment. Blackmore said staff and also patients who otherwise might have had to drive to Regina for an appointment use the Telehealth unit extensively.
If anyone is interested in donating to the foundation, they may contact Blackmore at 637-2474.
