The Cariboo Foundation Hospital Trust could not have raised its 60 per cent share of a new digital mammography unit for the hospital without the generosity of the community, board members said Monday.
“A big thank you goes out to everyone,” board member Joy Hennig said during the board’s monthly meeting at Deni House.
It was three years ago when the board consulted with local doctors and set a goal to fundraise for the unit.
The total cost of the machine is approximately $800,000. The remainder will be paid for by the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District.
Trust chair Carol Taphorn said the new machine has been ordered and should arrive for installation at Cariboo Memorial Hospital in about six months.
“It will replace the current screening mammography unit with better quality pictures and instant transmission,” Taphorn said.
The CFHT consists of 10 hardworking and dedicated board members, however, Hennig said anyone interested in joining the board is encouraged to do so.
Hennig is in charge of the upcoming sixth annual Gala, taking place Saturday, Nov. 29 at Sacred Heart Parish Hall.
It’s a fun, formal, black tie event, featuring the live band Hit Zone from Vancouver, Taphorn said.
“This year’s theme is Christmas,” she added.
The evening always includes an auction and board member Richard Nelson has secured four framed NHL jerseys for prizes, including one from Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier and two from Patrick Roy.
“There’s also the Woodland Jewellers ring designed and made by Geoff Bourdon and valued at $10,000,” Taphorn reminded.
Donations for the auction are welcome and can range from paintings, to trips and even cash to help put on the event, Hennig said.
Tickets for the gala are now available at RE/MAX Williams Lake and Cariboo GM.