The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital launched their seasonal fundraising campaign in November, featuring the story of a past patient Bruce “Barks” Barker who wanted to help fundraising efforts as an expression of his gratitude for the care he received at GGH when he experienced a stroke.
Contributions of any amount are being encouraged through December 31. Barker, radio announcer for Magic 106.1 and CJOY, credits GGH for saving his life and his livelihood as a professional announcer. He encourages everyone in the community “to support the hospital that saved my life.”
You can watch or read Bruce’s story on the Foundation’s website.
Both donations and messages of gratitude are equally appreciated as holiday gifts this season.
To date, the Foundation has received nearly 100 heartwarming handwritten notes.
“So many donors to the Foundation are past patients like Bruce, and we hear every day how members of our Guelph-Wellington community are incredibly grateful for the care that they or a loved one received,” explained Julie Byczynski, CEO of the Foundation. “We wanted to find a way to make it easy for people to make a donation and also to show their gratitude directly to hospital staff, who really need the extra support right now.”
Melissa Skinner, VP Patient Services and Chief Nursing Executive, Guelph General Hospital added “Being on the receiving end of gratitude is uplifting and motivating for all caregivers and staff who continue to work so tirelessly through ongoing and emerging challenges.”
Community support is essential to Guelph General Hospital being able to provide the best care possible to every patient. That’s because all patient care equipment is funded through donations and participation in fundraising events and other initiatives like the 50/50 Hospital Lottery.
Contributions to the seasonal campaign will help Guelph General Hospital purchase the highest priority patient care equipment. The campaign includes a series of letters to current and potential new supporters.
Donations are also accepted online here, by phone at 519-837-6422, or by cheque payable to The Foundation of GGH mailed to 115 Delhi Street, Guelph, ON N1G 4J4.
The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital gives thanks to the RC Team, John Clark, Collette Aeschlimann, Owen White, for donating this spotlight story opportunity to help share this story.