by Jane Adams, Communications Lead, WDMH Foundation
Friends helping friends. That’s what Jennifer Lemieux was thinking about when she contacted the Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) Foundation to talk about a fundraiser for the WDMH cancer program.
“My colleague Wendy McFaul has a daughter who received chemotherapy treatments at the hospital,” explains Jennifer. “Her name is Erin and she spoke very highly of the staff in WDMH’s Chemotherapy Unit. We wanted to do something for chemo patients and the staff who support them.”
Jennifer organized a fun day at her home in Kingston that included a bocce ball tournament, BBQ and pool party. There was even a lemonade and cookie stand. Friends, family and co-workers participated, and other business associates and corporations made donations as well. The final tally is $18,995!
“There are no words to describe the ups and downs of treatment – the influx of medications, physical reactions, family disruptions and emotional rollercoaster – that a cancer diagnosis brings,” adds Erin. “I chose to go to WDMH for my treatment because a good friend of mine spoke very highly of the hospital. Being from a small town myself, and living away from home and my support network, I was so thankful for the medical team in Winchester. I felt comfortable, supported, safe, and cared for by the incredible nurses in this small but mighty Oncology Unit at a time when I needed it most. I am so glad to be finished that stage of my treatment, but I miss the nurses and support team who had such a huge impact on my life while I was there. I am excited that we will be able to support them and their future patients as a small thank you for their amazing care.”
The money will be used to support staff through the purchase of two new portable work stations. Patients will benefit from a new iPod® and speaker to help them relax during their treatments.
“We are so grateful when community members support our patients during their hospital stay, or in this case, their cancer journey,” notes Cindy Peters, Manager of Direct Mail and Events. “Many people do not realize that the provincial government does not fund medical equipment for hospitals, so these donations make a big difference.”
