North Central Health Care Foundation
SUCCESS
THANK YOU for your continued support!!
Together We Have Achieved Great Success In Helping Our Health Care System To Thrive…Let’s Keep Growing!
We Want to Hear YOUR Story
NCHCF success comes from a compassionate and caring team of volunteers working to better our health care system. We love our community and all of the people living here. YOU are the reason why we work so hard.
Do you have a personal experience with our local health care system that you’d like to share? Maybe your donation is in honour of someone you love or are inspired by? Maybe you know the heartwarming reason why your loved one willed a donation to the NCHCF upon their passing?
We love knowing that what we are doing is helping you and we love hearing the stories behind the hearts and faces.
We are inspired by ALL of our local heroes, including Melfort’s own Kurt Ferguson who is a VIP in all of our hearts.
Are YOU inspired by Kurt’s story? DONATE NOW
The STARS Air Ambulance Service heliport station at the Melfort Hospital was fully funded by generous donations made to the NCHCF.
Even MORE Inspiration to Donate!
“STARS means that my family still has me.”
Sochaski was camping at the Nipawin Regional Park in 2016 when an infection from previous open-heart surgery threatened her life. Debbie was suffering from sepsis and was transported to the Nipawin Hospital. Soon after, she was was on the STARS energy transport helicopter and, in 51 minutes, she was at the Saskatoon hospital. The doctor told her husband that she wouldn’t have survived the trip to Saskatoon without STARS.
“The incubator will help children and parents in the province and if we can help you keep your children in their home community, that’s better for them.”
“My kids, at the time, were eight and five; Melfort Hospital was the closest thing to home… honestly, I will never forget the care and the service that they provided to me. If we can do everything in our power to maintain and enhance services in a great establishment just down the road, I strongly believe that we should do that.”
Blandin was commuting to Melfort for work in 2010 when her vehicle hit a tire in the middle of the highway. She broke her pelvis, left foot, and right wrist, leading to some significant mobility issues. Blandin spent 18 days in the hospital in Melfort and said she was treated well from the start, with St. Brieux first responders the first on the scene, and Melfort Ambulance transporting her to the hospital.
“The other really impressive and important note, was that we had absolutely zero expenses so every dollar that was pledged is actually a dollar going towards this project to enhance healthcare in Melfort.”
“We get the direction from the people here that are using the equipment; they know what is needed and it is just a matter of a priority list and what we think we can raise funds for”
“To see the Wellness Centre built, really gives me faith in the community that they want this area to grow. It’s awesome that the local Rural Municipalities are getting involved, I think it’s very important. Whether you live out in the country or you live just down the street, we’re all in this together.”
NCHCF Success With YOUR Help
Heliport Emergency Transport
NCHCF Success! A 2021 NCHCF Campaign that surpassed its goal and raised over $750,000.
The addition of the heliport at the Melfort Union Hospital, allows the emergency STARS Air Ambulance Team to land right directly at the hospital saving valuable minutes that are often critical for the patient. No EMS transfers are required which frees up EMS to respond to other calls and reduce the cost to the patient as they would not be billed for additional transport.
Donor wall unveiled in Melfort Wellness Centre to honour heliport contributors
A metaphorical bow has been tied on the Melfort Heliport project.
After fundraising kicked off in January 2020, donors from across the region did their part to help make a heliport at the Melfort Hospital a reality. The heliport’s construction was completed November 2020 and Transport Canada granted its stamp of approval at the end of that month.
On Feb. 11 a donor wall was unveiled to honour all those who financially contributed to the project that was expected to cost around $600,000. The donor wall splits them into groups based on contribution amounts. The ‘Lead Pilot Donor’ donor was Redhead Equipment who contributed over $100,000 to the project. The other donation categories are labelled Co-Pilot, Lifesavers, Flight Crew, Responder and other titles.
“Melfort Heliport Complete” – St. Thomas Times Journal Article
Melfort hospital helipad complete
The project is expecting one large donation in the next several weeks
Dec 01, 2020 • Last Updated December 1, 2020 • 1 minute read
“The entire region will now benefit from shorter transfer times for trauma patients from Melfort Hospital to Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon,” said fundraising committee chairperson, Rod Gantefoer. “The Heliport Fundraising Committee is currently in the process of wrapping up their work. A final donation total of more than $750,000 is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Any excess funds will benefit the North Central Health Care Foundation.”Stars are now able to land at the Melfort Hospital, should they be called upon to transfer patients from Melfort to Saskatoon.“The completion of this project was made possible because of the financial support of local citizens, businesses, surrounding communities and the tireless efforts of the Municipal Health Advocacy Committee members,” City of Melfort Director of Development, Planning and Community Relations, Brent Lutz stated.The North Cental Health Care Foundation has been involved with the project as well.“Funds from this campaign will further the work of the Foundation. The Foundation plays an important role in supporting our local health care professionals by providing funding for equipment in the facilities throughout the district,” said Peggy George, chairperson.
Ground broken at Melfort Hospital for new helipad
“Northeast Now” – News Article
The fundraising campaign for the new heliport in Melfort is off to a flying start.
The official launch of the North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) Melfort Hospital Heliport Fundraising Campaign was held Wednesday, Jan. 15 at the Kerry Vickar Centre.
Even though the fundraiser was just launched, $468,000 has already been raised toward their $600,000 goal.
NCHCF Chair Peggy George said the start has been fabulous, but they need to be this far along if they are to begin construction on the heliport this spring, as planned.
The City of Melfort stipulated 100 per cent of the funds raised for the heliport need to be in place before shovels go into the ground.
George said she draws inspiration for another local health improvement.
“To see the Wellness Centre built really gives me faith in the community that they want this area to grow,” George said. “It’s awesome that the [local Rural Municipalities] are getting involved, I think it’s very important. Whether you live out in the country or you live just down the street, we’re all in this together.”
She said it’s important to support local health initiatives.
STARS success story
One of the presenters at the launch on Wednesday was Debbie Sochaski.
She told her story about her life being saved by the quick response of the STARS Air Ambulance, and the importance of having that option as quickly as possible.
Sochaski was camping at Nipawin Regional Park in 2016 when an infection from previous open heart surgery threatened her life.
Debbie was suffering from sepsis and was transported to Nipawin Hospital. Soon after, she was taking the 51 minute ride via STARS to hospital in Saskatoon.
“STARS means that my family still has me,” Sochaski said.
She said the doctor told her husband at the hospital that she wouldn’t have survived the trip to Saskatoon without STARS.
Sochaski encouraged people to donate to the heliport fundraiser.
“Do your part for STARS,” Sochaski said. “Do what you can, it will save a life. Maybe even your own.”
The Saskatchewan Health Authority will maintain the heliport once it is built just east of the Melfort Hospital.
“Northeast Now” – News Article
NCHCF continues to raise funds for heliport at Melfort Hospital
The North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) continues to accept donations to the Melfort Heliport project.
The campaign is seeking to raise $600,000 to go toward the construction of a heliport adjacent to Melfort Union Hospital.
NCHCF chair Peggy George told northeastNOW that COVID-19 “is going to put a little kink in our plans.”
She said the fight against the virus will likely slow the fundraising campaign down a bit, but they are still trying to have meetings via teleconference, and corresponding by email.
“Now people are all back, but they’re all kind of isolated and quarantined,” George said. “We’re definitely getting very, very close to the 100 per cent raised, but we’re not there yet.”
The COVID-19 pandemic also raises questions about when the project can start. Construction was to get underway this spring and that remains the goal, but George said the timeline could be affected by the virus if people aren’t able to get together to start the build. She said the situation is still “wait and see”, but they’re trying to remain positive.
NCHCF Chair talks about next steps in Melfort Heliport project
The Melfort Heliport Project at the Melfort Hospital took a major step on Monday, May 4 as Melfort City Council approved to release tenders for the project.
North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) Chair Peggy George said it’s nice to see the project move forward.
“It’s been a long haul,” she said. “But yes, we’re thrilled to finally be at this stage. The light is getting a little bit brighter, and we’re looking forward to it getting even brighter.”
The NCHCF is still accepting donations for the project, even though the $600,000 goal is very close to being reached. George said if there is money left, it will remain with the NCHCF to go towards more diagnostic equipment.
“Melfort Journal” – News Article
Fundraising for Melfort Heliport project officially launched
Jan 20, 2020 • January 21, 2020 • 2 minute read
The Heliport Committee in Melfort has officially launched their fundraising campaign after hosting a fundraising launch at the Kerry Vickar Centre on Wednesday, January 15. The fundraising launch announced that the project is well on the way to get construction under way this spring.
Speakers at the event included Fred Matiko of STARS, Brent Lutz of the City of Melfort, Rod Gantefoer of the fundraising committee, STARS survivor Debbie Sochaski Dr. Ige spoke for the hospital staff, Lionel Lavoie spoke about the future vision for Melfort as a health center and George gave the update on the fundraising thus far including listing the many donors.
- The Melfort Hospital serves a referral population of approximately 12,200 people and currently does not have a heliport. All patient transfers occur by ground EMS directly or through the Melfort Airport via fixed wing air ambulance or STARS service. The City of Melfort proposes to develop a heliportbeside to the Melfort Hospital. The landing area would be a certified area used by STARS for the transport of patients from the emergency department at the hospital.
- The proposed heliport would be an important service for our growing community. The greatest risk for patients being transported isduring handover. With STARS service, the care team can come right to the patient, get report from the team providing care and transfer direct to tertiary care in Saskatoon.
- A helipad would save STARS time to patient as they would be able to land right at the hospital. These minutes are often critical for the patient. No EMS transfers would be required which would free up EMS to respond to other calls and reduce the cost to the patient as they would not be billed for an additional transport.The Melfort Heliport will shorten transport time to patient by approximately 30 minutes plus a further 20 minutes time is saved on transport time to Royal University Hospital as the helicopter will land right at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon as opposed to the airport where ground transportation is again required.
- The most significant impact will be on the patient who is able to benefit from a timelier transfer with fewer handovers along the way.Patient care will be improved since the heliport will reduce the number of patient handovers between referring and receiving teams. While best efforts are made by the professionals involved in handing care of the patient to another team, the process carries inherent risks for the patient in the areas of communications between care teams and continuity of care for a critical patient. STARS transport via the heliport would reduce these risks to the patient and improve patient stability. Speed is not always the only factor. Sometimes the level of care provided by the STARS crew may be beneficial to the specific needs of patient, versus the crew of a ground ambulance.
- The Melfort community is a growing urban center that currently requires a 2 hour ambulance trip to the Saskatoon Royal University Hospital. This is very dependent and weather conditions and City traffic delays can also impact estimated times. The introduction of a heliport will improve access to tertiary services for those in greatest need. The heliport will help ensure patients receive the care they need, when they need it, regardless of where they are located. The proposed heliport will improve the timely transfer of patients via STARS from Melfort to Saskatoon’s Royal University Hospital. A reduction in the transfer of patient care between ground ambulance and STARS crews at the airport will positively impact quality and patient safety.
- Positive patient outcomes would be expected to increase for patients where time is critical. While not a factor in all STARS flights, the impact can be dramatic when it is. Resources will be released for other priorities including STARS air time, ground EMS, and fixed wing resources. The respective transport physician will be able to make the decision based on patient need and available resources.
- The project is being completed in the summer of 2020 at a cost of approximately $600,00.00. The project costs will be funded entirely by private donations from community-minded individuals, businesses and organizations. Construction is anticipated to commence as soon as the funds have been raised.
New Digital Imaging Systems
NCHCF Success! A NCHCF Fundraising Campaign that, with your help, surpassed its goal and raised over $510,000.
The Melfort Hospital has been upgraded from outdated computer x-ray technology to industry-standard digital technology. Our new digital x-ray equipment produces the highest quality, filmless image, reducing errors and the need for repeat examinations. It is also safer for patients and staff.
“Sarnia Observer” – News Article
NCHCF reaches goal for Digital Imaging Campaign
Feb 19, 2019 • February 19, 2019 • 2 minute read • Join the conversation
Peggy George placed a paid up sticker on the Digital Imaging Machine at the Melfort Hospital after the completion of the fundraising by the NCHCF.
According to George the Foundation is still receiving donations that are earmarked for the campaign and they covered the difference with money from the general account.
“We used a lot of our money from our general account, money that was in our account before we even started this,” she said.
“Until we start to plan and until we order the donor board that lists all of our donors. If we get more money in that is designated for the DI campaign absolutely that is where it will go and the donors will be recognized,” she added.
People that donate and designate the DI campaign will get recognition on the donor board.
According to George there is always another campaign to begin and this was just a particularly large one.
George explained that she was amazed to complete the fundraising in under four years.
“It wasn’t just people from Melfort it was the surrounding area that people have donated. Obviously that huge donation from the Kinsmen Telemiracle really made it able to write the cheque a lot faster,” she said.
The foundation is important because it is there when you need health support in the region.
“I have always thought supporting health care and donating to the Foundation is sort of like buying insurance. You hope you never have to want to use it but it is really good to know it is there if you do. By supporting the Health Care Foundation you enhance the health care in our region and it is there if you or your loved ones need it,” she said.
“We hope you never have to use it but at some point in time you go to the doctor and you need some health care services and that is what we are doing,” she said.
Items next on the “much needed” list are 51 over-bed tables for Parkland Place ($24,000) and an incubator ($60,000).
“Kingston WHIG Standard” – News Article
Telemiracle Foundation helps NCHCF get closer to goal
Dec 04, 2018 • Last Updated December 4, 2018 • 1 minute read
(L to R) Trent Fedorychka of the Telemiracle Foundation, Peggy George and Dwayne Friesen after the foundation presented the NCHCF with $50,000.
The Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation has assisted The North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) with a $50,000 grant which will help them get closer to their fundraising goal in their Digital Imaging Campaign. The organization is now closer than ever to their goal.
“We are getting there, the light is getting brighter. We had $110,000 left and now with this $50,000 and we have had a few other donations, we are about halfway there,” NCHCF chair Peggy George said.
The North Central Health Care Foundation made a commitment to the health region in 2016 to fund the new $510,000 x-ray equipment, to date $400,000 has been raised. This donation relieves a lot of pressure and makes the remaining amount seem more feasible.
According to George there is around $50,000 remaining.
Kinsmen TeleMiracle will become their first Diamond Sponsor.
“We applied for a grant, assistance from Telemiracle, the Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation. And they have reviewed it and accepted to award us $50,000. So we are exstatic, over the moon and thrilled,” George said.
“We are getting there, the light is getting brighter. We had $110,000 left and now with this $50,000 and we have had a few other donations, we are about halfway there,”
To reach that final goal George is hoping that people contemplate donating before the end of the fiscal year.
“We are asking the public, yes one last push get us over the edge let us finish this campaign and move on. There are more things waiting that need to be purchased,” she explained.
“Northeast Now” – News Article
NCHCF gets boost from two local donations
Two generous donations were made to the North Central Health Care Foundations(NCHCF) digital imaging equipment campaign at the Melfort hospital on Jan. 9.
One of the donations was made possible through a new project in the city over the Christmas holidays. Over $6,000 was brought in through a silver collection at the Christmas Castle at the historic post office.
Dr. Yemi Laosebikan and his wife Foluke spearheaded the Christmas castle project that saw around 3,114 take the tour of the light display that aimed to bring life and light to the community.
“It was more than we expected it turned out and we had people from all the provinces surrounding us as far as B.C. and Ontario and international visitors from the U.S., Japan, Australia and the U.K.,” Yemi said.
Foluke said the funds were just the bonus for them.
“It brought out a communal spirit, we were able to see how giving and community minded people were,” Foluke said. “It created a place for people to gather together too during the Christmas season so there were a lot of positives.”
There is a demand for the project to come back again in the coming years and the Laosebikans said they will be looking to the community and numerous volunteers for help in setting up again when the time comes.
The Eastern Star Melfort chapter also made a donation of $1,260 to the foundation.
Worthy Matron, Florence Bott said many fundraisers contributed to making the funds possible including a barbecue at the Co-op, a chase the ace supper, a stew supper at Diefenbaker and a bake sale.
Bott also purchased a quilt to raffle off which brought in around an additional $400.
The group does a yearly project where they choose a recipient in the community for funds.
“We chose the digital diagnostic equipment as our project because it is so worthwhile to have right in our hometown that we don’t have to go to the city for some of these things that we can have right here,” Bott said.
NCHCF chair Peggy George said both donations were a surprise to the board.
“It’s so wonderful to know that the community is out there and supporting us and thinking about us and trying to raise funds for us,” George said.
The digital diagnostic imaging equipment campaign is very close to wrapping up after these two donations as well as two other cheques presented before the new year.
Ag Com provided $8,000 and the SaskTel Pioneers gave $3,000.
George said that they had a immense amount of support in 2018. She cited donations from the Star City Elks, the Tim Horton’s smile cookie campaign, and the RCMP golf tournament.
Members of the foundation board will meet next week to get an official total and then go over the wish list that has already come in for their next needed pieces of equipment.
Radio-a-thon and Pancake Breakfast for Melfort Hospital
Foundation to host radiothon and pancake breakfast to raise money for digital imaging equipment
The North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) in Melfort will be hosting a pancake breakfast to formally kick-off their one-day radiothon for the Melfort Hospital Digital X-Ray Campaign. The radiothon will be live on 105 CJVR and CK750 all day long.
During the radiothon, the NCHCF intends to meet the campaign’s $510,000 target. The NCHCF has already raised $200,000 toward meeting the campaign goal. Individuals, groups and businesses from the community and surrounding area are encouraged to pledge their support to the campaign during the radiothon.
The radiothon donation line is: 306-752-8831.
Melfort Hospital Digital X-Ray Campaign Radiothon Friday, October 20th 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Pancake Breakfast Kick-Off 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. Melfort Curling Club 110 Crawford Avenue West
For more information on the campaign or the North Central Health Care Foundation, visit the NCHCF website at www.nchcf.ca
The NCHCF is in the final phase of the Melfort Hospital Digital X-Ray Campaign focused on securing the final investment for the state-of-the-art x-ray equipment currently providing patients with safe, timely diagnostic care. Melfort Hospital is one of seven diagnostic imaging sites in Kelsey Trail Health Region (KTHR) that has been upgraded from the outdated computed x-ray technology to industry standard digital technology, aligning all diagnostic imaging equipment in the health region.
The NCHCF has been raising funds to support the ongoing delivery of healthcare services in Melfort and area since 2001. Funds raised by the NCHCF over the last 16 years have supported the purchase of much-needed equipment necessary for the delivery of healthcare services in Melfort Hospital, Parkland Place, Nirvana Assisted Living, Melfort & Naicam Home Care and Chateau Providence in St. Brieux.
On an annual basis, the NCHCF works in collaboration with Kelsey Trail Health Region to determine the highest priority equipment needs with the Melfort area, ensuring the funds that are raised through the generous contributions of community-minded individuals, groups and businesses are directed to the areas where they are most needed.
To date, the NCHCF has been successful in generating $200,000 toward the campaign goal of $510,000. We need your donation to reach our target for this campaign and generate the funds necessary to address ongoing future equipment needs. Donors may make lump sum donations or arrangements for multi-year installments can also be made.
The North Central Health Care Foundation is dedicated to encouraging and securing community investment to meet the long –term healthcare equipment needs of Melfort and area. Your generous contribution to the Melfort Hospital Digital X-Ray Campaign is an investment in the future of Melfort Hospital and the community of Melfort as a whole. More importantly, it is also a reflection of the tradition of giving that supports the advancement of healthcare in the community and the well-being of all that require these vital healthcare services.
All donors will receive formal recognition through acknowledgement on the NCHCF website, the newspaper, and the NCHCF donor board. Donations over $20 will receive a charitable donation receipt for income tax. Thank you for your generosity!
Support the North Central Health Care Foundation
How Can I Donate?
To support this campaign or any future fundraising needs of the NCHCF, donations may be made by:
Calling the North Central Health Care Foundation at 306-752-8700
Cheque or money order payable to North Central Health Care Foundation
Credit Card
Online at www.nchcf.ca
By mail to Box 1480, Melfort SK S0E 1A0
In person at the gift shop at Melfort Hospital or Parkland Place
In person at the Pancake Breakfast Kick-Off
Calling in anytime during the Radiothon 306-752-8831
North Central Health Care Foundation begins next fundraising campaign
The North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) has paid off one of its larger campaigns.
During its annual general meeting on Oct. 2, the NCHCF announced the $510,000 Digital Imaging X-Ray machine in Melfort Hospital has been paid for entirely thanks to one final $50,000 donation from Kinsmen Telemiracle.
NCHCF’s Chair Peggy George said the campaign took over two and a half years to complete.
“When I think about it and look back, I think it seemed like it was an eternity,” George told northeastNOW. “Hopefully it will last about 10 years and then we’ll have to start all over again, which is just the world we live in. Everything needs to be replaced and updated; it wears out.”
“Melfort Journal” – News Article
Province announces CT scanner for Melfort
The scanner was originally promised in the 2010 budget.
Mar 18, 2020 • March 18, 2020 • 3 minute read • Join the conversation
It was welcome news in Melfort on Wednesday, March 18 as the provincial government fulfilled a $2 million promise to put a CT scanner in the Melfort Hospital.
The new service will benefit people from across the region, shortening wait times and giving doctors an additional diagnostic tool, said the city.
“The City of Melfort, through the Municipal Health Advocacy Committee and the local physician’s group, has been working towards enhancing medical services for the whole Region,” Lang said.
The Advocacy committee has been working in getting a CT scanner in Melfort for some time, holding an open house last December.
“It is due, it is needed, it will be used well, I think it is just a benefit to the whole process. When I talk to people in Saskatoon and what it means to have five CT Scanners in Saskatoon, people wait as long as six weeks. They would definitely drive out here if they could get it in two weeks. The road to Saskatoon is equal distance in both directions,” Rod Gantefoer of the Municipal Health Advocacy Committee said at the time.
“But the main thing is the diagnostic on a regional basis then everybody is going to benefit. The CT Scanner isn’t just for Melfort it is for all of the northeast,”
The City said it acknowledge the “leadership and foresight” shown by the province and also recognized people that worked hard to make it happen, including Gantefoer(former MLA and Minister of Finance), the late Kevin Phillips (former MLA and Mayor of Melfort), Lang, Todd Goudy (current ML) and current members of the medical community throughout northeast Saskatchewan.
“Northeast Now” – News Article
‘Very, very excited’: NCHCF on news of CT scanner for Melfort
The chair of the North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) is thrilled the provincial government will fund a new CT Scanner in Melfort.
In the government’s expense budget announcement on Wednesday, documents revealed $2 million is slated for a new CT scanner in the city, as part of a $4 million investment for diagnostic imaging in the province.
The funding comes 10 years after provincial officials announced their intention to financially support a new scanner in Melfort in 2010.
NCHCF chair Peggy George said she had a few reactions after the announcement.
Melfort Hospital Digital X-Ray Campaign Fact Sheet
- The Melfort Hospital is one of seven diagnostic imaging sites in Kelsey Trail Health Region (KTHR) that has been upgraded from the outdated computed x-ray technology to the industry standard digital technology, aligning all diagnostic imaging equipment in the health region to a safer, higher quality at an affordable price.
- Kelsey Trail Health Region (KTHR) worked in partnership with community Trust Committees and Foundations in each the region’s diagnostic imaging sites to cover the costs associated with the purchase and installation of the new technology. Community Trust Committees and Foundations were tasked with raising the funds required for the equipment purchase while KTHR covered the costs associated with site readiness and installation.
- KTHR was able to take advantage of economies of savings through the bulk purchase of the digital x-ray equipment for all of the health region’s digital imaging sites. The lifespan of the new x-ray equipment is up to 15 years.
- Patient and staff safety is significantly better with a 60% reduction in patient exposure to radiation.
- Digital x-ray equipment produces the highest quality, filmless image, reducing errors and the need for repeat examinations.
- Turnaround time is significantly improved with digital x-ray. Physicians can view a patient’s x-ray immediately and reports can be viewedalmost immediately after having the image taken – a substantial decrease from the 10-14 days associated with film.
- Off-site doctors or specialists can also read images almost instantly after they have been captured providing faster diagnosis and treatment for patients.
- Digital x-ray units are portable which provides physicians with the flexibility to take images directly in the Emergency Room and the Operating Room rather than having to transport critically ill patients to the x-ray department.
- Workflow is significantly improved for x-ray technologists, eliminating the need to move heavy equipment and cassettes around.
- Digital images can be stored and accessed both on-site and off-site through the provincial PACS (Picture Archiving & Communication System) database. They are also very portable and can be transferred for viewing on a CD, flash drive or an email.
- The North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) has raised $200,000 of a $510,000 fundraising goal for the Melfort Hospital Digital X-Ray Campaign. The NCHCF intends to meet the fundraising target during a 12 hourRadiothon on CJVR/CK750 on October 20 from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. A kick-off pancake breakfast will be held at the Melfort Curling Club from 7 – 9 a.m.
- The North Central Health Care Foundation has been raising funds to support the ongoing delivery of healthcare services in Melfort and area since 2001. In addition to Melfort Hospital, funds raised by the NCHCF support the purchase of much-needed equipment necessary for the ongoing delivery of healthcare services in Parkland Place, Nirvana Assisted Living, Melfort & Naicam Home Care and Chateau Providence in St. Brieux.
For more information about the Digital X-Ray Equipment and Diagnostic Imaging in KTHR contact:
Renee Simoneau
Director Lab, Diagnostic Imaging & EMS
Kelsey Trail Health Region
Phone: 306-873-6519
Together, We’ve Also Achieved
NCHCF Success! The NCHCF Fundraising Team and our generous supporters, together, have funded over $5,000,000 to put towards many amazing areas of need including but not limited to:
- Over $1,000,000 for furnishings at Parkland Place
- Over $54,000 for new infant incubators (Melfort Hospital)
- Surgical Stretchers: $15,000 each
- Medical lifts & scales: $14,500 each
- Stethoscopes & health care equip.
“Saskatchewan Government” – News Article
NEW MELFORT LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY OPENS
Year in Review: NCHCF Radiothon brings in over $54,000 for infant incubators
northeastNOW is taking a look back at the biggest and most interesting stories of 2019, as selected by our newsroom:
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The North Central Health Care Foundation’s radiothon makes this year’s list of top stories.
In early October, it was announced that the NCHCF had completely fundraised for the digital imaging x-ray machine that cost about $510,000. Next on their list was infant incubators to go in the Melfort Hospital. The price tag there was about $60,000.
“Regina Leader-Post” – News Article
Author of the article:Michael Oleksyn
Publishing date:Oct 22, 2019 • Last Updated October 24, 2019 • 2 minute readTy Milne was among those who took in the pancake breakfast kickoff to the NCHCF Radiothon on Friday, October 18.The North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) can begin the process of ordering a new Incubator for the Melfort Hospital after their second Radiothon on Friday, October 18. The 12 hour Radiothon raised over $54,000 in 12 hours.“The Radiothon was very successful we are so thrilled with the final results. For the generous donations we received pledges of $54,203,” Peggy George of the NCHCFAccording to George because of funds that were already designated for the incubator it is now possible to order the equipment. All funds raised went towards the purchase of an incubator as well as other future health equipment and enhancements.“The other really impressive and important note about the Radiothon was we had absolutely zero expense so every dollar that was pledged is actually a dollar going towards this project and to enhance the healthcare in Melfort,” she said.George explained that one pleasant surprise during the Radiothon, which ran from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. was the Power Hour where the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation matched all funds raised. During the Power Hour over $11,000 was raisedShe explained that the Foundation matched the funds because the incubator will help children and parents in the province.So that’s why this is rather near and dear to their heart and they said if we can help you keep your children in their home community that’s better for them. So matching dollars that was a fabulous finish to the Radiothon,” she said.George thought the Radiothon was a great start to the newest campaign by the NCHCF. The new project is selected each time by consultations with the facilities managers of both the Melfort Hospital and Parkland Place. Firstly the Saskatchewan Health Authority sends a list of what they think are priorities and what they will supply and then the rest is up to the NCHCF.“So we get the direction from the people here that are using the equipment, they know what is needed and it is just a matter of priority list and what we think we can raise funds for and this year it was the incubator,” she explained.The Radiothon kicked off with a Pancake Breakfast at the Melfort Curling Club that served 250 people.Sponsors for the Radiothon included Beach Radio, the Melfort Curling Club, Prairie North Co-op, Tim Hortons, TJ’s Pizza and Venice House“A huge thank you to all of our sponsors and our volunteers, we needed each and every one of them to pull this off and to make those dollars really count. To all of the donors thank you for your continued support and we will be doing it again in two years,” George said.
“Beach Radio 750” – News Article
Smile cookie campaign at Tim Hortons benefiting local charities
The Tim Hortons smile cookie campaign is well underway and continues throughout the week.
Each restaurant owner chooses a charity, hospital, or program to benefit from cookie sales each year.
Melfort Tim’s owner Shannon Sigfusson told northeastNOW they have selected the North Centre Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) to benefit from cookies sales this year.
“With the year that our health care system has had, we felt it was important to donate to that very worthwhile foundation again this year,” Sigfusson said.
The NCHCF has benefited from the campaign for the past three years.
Last year 5,284 cookies were sold in Melfort and Sigfusson said she hopes to reach 6,000 for this campaign.
“We are very fortunate, with each year we tend to outdo the past year so we are hoping to do the same again this campaign,” Sigfusson said.
The foundation plans to dedicate the funds to a $15,000 surgical stretcher for the Melfort Hospital.
(Facebook/North Central Health Care Foundation)
The Melfort Tim Hortons has participated in the campaign since the restaurant opened in 2010.
The first two days of the campaign have been going well and Sigfusson said it typically really ramps up as the weekend approaches.
Pre-orders for a larger number of cookies can be called in as well.
Whether it’s camp day or smile cookie campaign, Sigfusson said the local community seems to always come through.
“We have to say thanks to all of our costumers and guests in the Melfort area,” Sigfusson said.
In Humboldt, cookie proceeds are supporting the Humboldt District Hospital Foundation (HDHF). The HDHF is raising funds to replace all cardiac monitoring equipment which has a price tag of $350,000.
The Tisdale Tim Hortons is selling cookies in support of STARS Air Ambulance and the Nipawin location will donate to Handiworks in the community.
“Northeast Now” – News Article
Melfort’s Smile helps fund the North Central Health Care Foundation
Through Tim Horton’s smile cookie sales, funds were raised to support new hospital equipment in the northeast, so that the joy extends beyond the cookies.
Tim Horton’s across Canada sold smile cookies from Sept. 13 until Sept. 19.
Peggy George, Chair of the North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) and manager of the hospital gift shop, said the organization cannot express how grateful they are.
“We have been so fortunate. We have been in the last two campaigns Melfort Tim Horton’s has done,” she said.
“Northeast Now” – News Article
Former patient weighs in on Melfort Hospital, need for local services ahead of radio-thon
The North Central Health Care Foundation is embarking on their next fundraising campaign, and it kicks off on Friday.
The 12 hour radio-thon, featured on 105 CJVR and Saskatchewan’s New Beach Radio, will raise money for an updated infant incubator.
The new incubator would go a long way to helping babies throughout the region, something that isn’t lost on Melani Blandin of St. Brieux.
Blandin was commuting to Melfort for work in 2010 when her vehicle hit a tire in the middle of the highway. She broke her pelvis, left foot, and right wrist, leading to some significant mobility issues.
Melfort Hospital gift shop temporarily moves into Historic Post Office
The gift shop at the Melfort Hospital will be temporarily set-up at the Melfort Historic Post Office.
Volunteers with the North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) run the gift shop but have been locked out of the space since March when the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Executive Director Peggy George said the operation of the gift shop serves as a steady income for the foundation.
“Every dollar that we make in the gift shop goes to the foundation and we typically turn over $30,000 to $35,000 a year,” George said.
Before the pandemic began, the NCHCF committed to purchasing $95,000 worth of equipment.
“We can’t do any fundraising so we aren’t too sure how we are going to pay that $95,000,” George said.
The city was willing to work with the foundation and provide the space at the Historic Post Office since it is not available for rentals at this time.
“Hopefully we can stay there for a good while because it doesn’t sound like we are going to be getting back into the hospital or Parkland Place anytime soon,” George said.
Set-up has been underway over the month of October and is set to open to the public on Monday and is having a soft opening today and tomorrow. The gift shop will be open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m.
“We have lots of things to look at and we have lots of things to sell,” George said.
Sadly, the lack of funerals due to the pandemic has also affected the foundation this year.
“We have so many people that do memorial donations when they lose a loved one and we are so grateful for that,” George said. “Now when there aren’t any funerals, we are missing out on those donations too so it is extremely important to have the gift shop open.”
The ear marked equipment includes a camera for the surgical operating room, a special bed at Parkland Place and equipment for the lab at the hospital for bloodwork.
Parkland Place was also recently in need of a lift to move residents out of bed and chairs.
“We were strapped and we couldn’t help them so it’s important to always have a contingency plan and have something on hand for those kinds of things,” George said.
George said the blanket warmer at the hospital also broke and needed replacing but wasn’t on the radar or in the budget.
“Everything ages and everything has a life span and when it comes to healthcare equipment it all wears out too fast,” George said.
Donations are always being collected by the foundation at www.nchcf.ca or by cheque through the mail at Box 1480 in Melfort.
The NCHCF is also once again part of Melfort and District Donor’s Choice which runs throughout the month of October.
Farmers can also donate to the foundation by taking a load of grain into Viterra or Richardson Pioneer and they will donate the funds.
“Beach Radio 750” – News Article
Melfort Museum and Christmas Castle teaming up to create Christmas Village
A Christmas Village walk-thru is in the works at the Melfort and District Museum grounds in December.
Museum curator Gail Marie Anderson told northeastNOW the village is being created in conjunction with the Christmas Castle group.
Admission is by donation only and will be split between the two groups.
“The Christmas Castle proceeds will go to the North Central Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) and the museum’s money is going to the restoration of our 1912 caboose,” Anderson said.
One of many displays that could be seen at the Christmas Castle at the Melfort Historic Post Office. (Angie Rolheiser/northeastNOW Staff)The Christmas Castle project was a vision of a local doctor who felt there should be more activity on Main Street.
The Christmas Castle put on by Dr. Adeyemi Laosebikan and his wife, Foluke, was not only something for people in the area to do over the holidays but also served as a fundraiser for the NCHCF.
The Christmas Castle ran for the 2018 and 2019 holiday seasons bringing in around $6,000 each year.
For the Christmas Village, much of the decorations from the Christmas Castle are being brought in, as well as decorations from the museum.
The outside of the museum buildings are being beautifully decorated for the holiday season while the school and church buildings will also be open with displays inside.
The Friend’s of the Museum typically hosts a Christmas dinner and silent auction event but that will not go ahead for another year due to COVID-19 restrictions.
There will be 12 nights for the Christmas Village throughout the month of December from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Opening weekend will be December 2, 3, and 4 followed by Dec. 9–11 and Dec.16–18. The last three nights for the village before Christmas will be Dec. 20, 21, and 22.
(Facebook/Melfort and District Museum)
“Everyone is invited to come through the powerhouse which will also be very decorated,” Anderson said.
When entering the powerhouse, school and church buildings attendees will need to wear a mask. Masks are optional when outdoors at the grounds.
“This year it is only available as a walk-thru. We are still trying to figure out how might be able to transport people around, but it is a little tricky,” Anderson said. “The city has plowed a circular path, so you have to go down one way and out a different way.”
The Melfort Woodcarvers group will be doing snow sculptures in the centre.
“We hope that we get lots of visitors each night and we are excited to showcase the museum,” Anderson said.
Hot cider will be served at the museum as well.
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