‘Good news’: Community raises a half million at Jim Cuddy night for County’s hospital

Jim Cuddy and Friends take the stage at Compass Rose on May 2. – Christine Reid Photography

An Evening with Jim Cuddy, last week saw a sold-out crowd of 200 guests net $577,000 in support of a new mammography machine for Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH).

The highlight of the evening  was a powerful “Fund-a-Cause” cash auction, where 42 donors pledged outright gifts that were matched dollar for dollar up to $150,000, thanks to the PECMH Auxiliary.

“This is what community looks like,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “To see this level of generosity in one evening, and to fully activate the Auxiliary’s match, is incredibly meaningful. Together, we are ensuring access to life-saving breast cancer screening is available close to home.”

“The Auxiliary is proud to support this initiative and to see the community rally so strongly behind it,” said Sharon Morcom, PECMH Auxiliary chairperson. “Reaching this milestone together is something we can all celebrate.”

Volunteer auctioneer Terry DeRoche brings the energy as he leads the live auction for 200 guests under the tent at Compass Rose Suites. – Christine Reid Photography

The evening, at Compass Rose Suites, brought together community leaders, donors, and supporters for a memorable experience featuring an intimate live performance by Jim Cuddy and Friends, exceptional County cuisine, and both silent and live auctions.

With the Auxiliary’s match fulfilled, the PECMH Foundation has completed its $1 million goal for the mammography campaign, bringing the community one step closer to ensuring patients have access to leading-edge diagnostic care locally.

“This is about people. When someone comes in for a mammogram, they are often carrying worry and uncertainty. This new technology helps us provide earlier answers, more accurate diagnoses, and the reassurance of receiving care close to home,” said Stacey Daub, President and CEO of Quinte Health. “We’re incredibly grateful for the many donors whose support made this possible. As we build a new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital, this investment will be an important part of the modern diagnostic imaging services patients can count on from day one.”

The evening also featured a powerful patient perspective from Moira Coull, whose story underscored the importance of access to diagnostic imaging.

“This evening was a celebration of the fabric of our community—woven together by generosity, connection, and a shared commitment to local health care,” said Peter Morch, volunteer event chairperson. “From the plaid theme to the incredible support from our sponsors and attendees, it was a true reflection of what makes Prince Edward County so special. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the night so memorable.”

Gary Parks, Nancy Parks (Back the Build Campaign Chair), Daniel Curtin, and Christine Faulhaber gather in front of C.H. Bespoked’s trailer during An Evening with Jim Cuddy at Compass Rose Suites on May 2. – Submitted photo

The PECMH Foundation extended sincere gratitude to the lead and event sponsors, volunteers, donors, and everyone who contributed to the success of the evening.

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation raises funds to advance health care for the people of Prince Edward County, including the construction and equipment of a new hospital. For more information or to lend support, visit the website at www.pecmhf.ca