Wellington Elks helping County’s hospital get new x-ray machine

Pictured on the future site of the new hospital from left, are: Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation; Briar Boyce, senior development officer with the PECMH Foundation and Dave Bowden, president of the Wellington Elks Lodge. Bette-Anne Smith photo

Members of the Wellington Elks Lodge #566 showed their support for a new x-ray machine needed at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH).

Dave Bowden, president of the Wellington Elks presented the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation (PECMHF) with a $1,000 gift toward the purchase of the x-ray machine. The funds were raised through dinners the Elks hosted over the past year.

“The Elks members thank all those who continue to support our events. Ongoing attendance at our dinners helps us to raise these funds. The lodge is proud to be able to give back to our community and that includes this gift to our local hospital,” said Bowden. “It is important to keep our current hospital well-equipped as anyone could have occasion to need these services. The Elks look forward to seeing a new hospital one day but, in the meantime, we must maintain the current hospital.”

This year, PECM Hospital Foundation’s goal is to raise $595,000 for the x-ray machine needed to replace the current 14-year-old model. The new machine will serve the current hospital and transition into the new hospital in 2027.

This donation will be matched 1:1 by the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, which has agreed to match donations made this month designated for the x-ray machine.

“The Elks support many community causes and the hospital foundation is grateful for being included in their funding initiatives over the past 21 years,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “And, this gift will have double the impact thanks to the Auxiliary!”

Coull emphasized how important it is for communities to help fund their local hospitals, through donations to their foundations.

“We can’t equip the hospital with leading edge equipment, like a new x-ray machine, without donors investing in our hospital.”

Hospital equipment receives no government funding.

“The foundation plays a critical role in providing funding for essential, specialized equipment. Donor dollars go a long way toward improving care for residents in our community who need treatment, close to home,” she said.

For information about the foundation and how to make a donation, visit www.pecmhf.ca or call 613-476-1008 ext. 4425.