MANITOULIN— The Sweet Slumbers fundraising campaign at Manitoulin Health Centre has crossed the finish line, in record fashion.
The goal of raising $200,000 and replacing 20 beds (10 at each hospital site, in Little Current and Mindemoya) was surpassed by over $80,000.
As a result of the generosity of the community, additional beds will be purchased, and a fund will be set aside for future care equipment associated with the beds.
“With the tremendous support of our many patrons, we are moving forward with the purchase of the beds and they are now being put into use at both sites. I can’t thank our supporters enough for the kindness they have shown. The new beds are safer and far more comfortable for patients, and so the community’s gifts will be of benefit to so many people, for years to come,” said Derek Graham, MHC’s president and CEO.
Pat Morka, vice president clinical/chief nursing officer said, “With an aging population, and the changing nature of the kind of care MHC needs to provide to our community, the new beds that are being purchased will allow for a whole range of comfort and safety features for patients. The beds are much more senior-friendly, with enhancements aimed at reducing falls; things like height adjustment that allows beds to be lowered to floor level, and alarm features to be used for confused patients, so that staff become aware when someone is trying to exit a bed unattended. In addition, we will now have bariatric capability at both sites, as some beds are being purchased that are roomier and therefore capable of handling larger individuals.”
Suzanne Norris, board chair, added, “The Board of Manitoulin Health Centre would like to thank and recognize the outpouring of generosity from our community that has resulted in this unprecedented level of success for our campaign.”
“Once again, our organization has been the benefactor of the warm outpouring of heartfelt support, shown by so many folks from across the Manitoulin Region,” said Chris Bousquet, board vice-chair.
Angela Becks, fundraising chair, stated, “The efforts of so many organizations and individuals have allowed this wonderful goal to be surpassed. We are truly blessed and thankful to everyone who made this possible.”
Dr. Stephen Cooper, chief of staff, added, “It is not easy to be a patient in hospital. You are sick, maybe a little confused, the routine is not your routine, you are at risk for ulcers and falls, sometimes just rolling over is painful. Today through the generous contributions of many people MHC is able to provide modern safe and comfortable beds to those unfortunate few of us that need to be in hospital. Thank you.”
“The staff at MHC’s two sites recognize the improvements to care that are being enabled by the new beds,” said Paula Fields, nursing manager. “Not only will they improve patient care, but because of their adjustment features, they will be safer for staff, as well. When patients require assistance to move, or get out of bed, the range of motion of the beds will help position patients in a way that will make it safer and easier for staff to be of assistance, decreasing the likelihood of a strained back or shoulder injury to the caregiver.”
