The season of giving did not fall short with an annual campaign to support urology services at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) Christmas Wish Tree campaign has exceeded its expectations by surpassing its goal of $100,000 and has raised $175,909 so far.
A tree lighting ceremony was held on Wednesday at the hospital in Wallaceburg and a second ceremony at the Chatham site was scheduled for Thursday evening.
“We know this past year has been challenging for so many, and I continue to be amazed by the loyalty and generosity of our community,” said CKHAF President and CEO Mary Lou Crowley. “Please know that the funds you have donated will make an impact on patients and families across Chatham-Kent.”
Funds raised this year will be used to buy two pieces of equipment for the CKHA's Urology program, which includes a new bladder scanner at the hospital in Wallaceburg and a new Urodynamics Machine at the CKHA's Chatham site.
“I am really looking forward to providing patients in Chatham-Kent with urology services that are closer to home, with quicker diagnosis and access to more specialized treatment,” said Urologist Dr. Hamid Abdi.
The Christmas Wish Tree campaign is now in its 31st year and allows residents to celebrate the memory of a loved one by making a donation in their honour. For every donation made to the campaign, a light is added to the tree.
“Keeping a light burning in remembrance of someone special signifies that your memories of them still live on and burn bright,” said CKHAF Board Chair Greg Hetherington.
Much of the campaign's success in raising over $175,000 this year can be attributed to the Foundation's partners but also to two retired business owners who have lived in Chatham-Kent for over 31 years.
A release from the CKHAF said Bob and Robin Hockney offered to match every donation received in November up to $25,000. The two also donated an additional $25,000 as part of Giving Tuesday.
A few purple lights were added to the trees this year in recognition of four CKHAF members who died this past year, Dr. John Button, JoAn Dale, Molly Oliver, and John Thompson.
Donations to support the Christmas Wish Tree campaign can still be made online until January 31, 2021.
