Hospital board impressed with show of support (15 photos)

Mother Nature was thanked for delivering a wonderful day for the annual Matthews Memorial Hospital Association (MMHA) and its tree lighting and carolling fundraiser in Richards Landing Saturday.

About 60 community members came together from various points across St. Joseph Island and the North Shore, including a number of youngsters who brought an abundance of Christmas cheer.

MMHA board is very impressed by the support it received, attendance numbers not seen in recent years.

The annual event generated nearly $5,000, a record in recent years.

Five of the nine MMHA board members were present singing along to many traditional songs.

"A donation to your Community Hospital, is an investment in quality care for you and your family," an excerpt from MMHA's annual letter to residents in the catchment area.

Generous donations from individuals and municipalities, along with fundraising events, enable MMHA to have a continued high quality medical care.

At the BridgeLink Medical Centre, funds raised are used to offer services such as pharmacy, massage therapists, nursing foot care, counselling and diabetic self care education. The centre also offers physician offices where blood services is offered to all living in the catchment area.

BridgeLink Medical Centre was built in 1998 and is in need of upgrades. Fundraising will focus on replacing the furnace and oil tanks, and possibly the air conditioning system.

The letter also noted what was completed this year, including the reduction of the BridgeLink mortgage, fulfillment of its contract with Dr. Beller and Dr. Lupien, provided accommodations for a new counsellor, participated in recruitment fairs and carried out required elevator repairs.

Matthews Memorial Hospital Association Annual General Meeting and election is slated for Saturday, Jan. 26 at Jocelyn Township Community Hall at 10:30 a.m. for coffee and muffins with the meeting beginning at 11 a.m.