The role of the Stettler Health Services Foundation is to:
- Work with the community to make decisions about the best use of donated funds.
- Take a lead role in fundraising to ensure resources are available for purchasing equipment and supporting health related programs in the community.
SHSF Provides Equipment for New Medication Room
September 2024
Pictured is Tersha Stevens, RN, and the Assertive Outreach Nurse for Stettler Addictions and Mental Health. As part of their Outreach Program, they offer clients assistance with their depot injections as well as metabolic monitoring for treatment at their clinic. With the financial support of the Stettler Health Services Foundation, they were able to set up a medication room to improve quality patient care. SHSF bought the new stool used when providing injections, a new automated blood pressure machine with 02 sensor as well as oral thermometer and probes. Below in the corner is a new refrigerator which is used to store medications as needed. This equipment has vastly improved the quality and delivery of care in the Addictions and Mental Health Office.
Pictured L-R are RNs Hope Ternes, Kendice Stenlund and LPN Jackie Hahn sitting on a medical grade lounger in the Palliative room of the Stettler Hospital. This $3500 lounger was funded by a donation from the Katie Bainbridge family and donations from other SHSF donors towards Palliative Care. SHSF very much appreciates all these donations in memory of your loved ones, making purchases like this possible.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stettler Festival of Lights Raises over $151,000
December 2023
This year's Festival of Lights raised over $150,000 to fully fund two Panda baby warmers and four syringe pumps for the Stettler Health Care Centre.
This amount raised is a record amount in the 26-year history of the Stettler Festival of Lights.
Festival Chairperson Amy Roberts said, "In a year that a lot of people are struggling, this community still came out and supported us, resulting in another record breaking year. Thank you so much to Stettler and area for your unwavering and overwhelming support."
Stettler Health Services Foundation Chairperson Cheryl Barros commented, "The entire SHSF Board is very appreciative of the efforts of the Festival of Lights volunteer committee. Over the past 26 years they have raised $1.7 million to enhance health care within the Stettler and County of Stettler area, making a true difference in the viability and sustainability of our Stettler Health Care Centre."
Stettler Festival of Lights was held the last week of November in the Stettler Community Hall.
The week-long fundraiser for the Stettler Health Care Centre started with a breakfast and continued with nightly events and a Friday lunch. It finished with a gala on Saturday, December 2 which saw 320 people come out and enjoy entertainment and a live and silent auction.
Stettler Health Services Foundation recently purchased two anesthesia machines for the Stettler Hospital. They were partially funded through the SMILE cookie campaign at Tim Hortons last year and by individual donors to SHSF. Pictured is Dr. Pieter Bouwer of the Anesthesia department of the Stettler Hospital. Dr. Bouwer said "A very big thank you to the Foundation for buying the new anesthesia machines. This will make a significant difference in patient safety as these machines are much more accurate and safe in delivering anesthesia. These new machines also contribute to environmental responsibility as lower gas emissions are achieved."
Record-breaking year for Stettler’s Festival of Lights
Photo credits to Studio Ashmor
This year’s Festival of Lights from Tues. Nov. 29 to Sat. Dec. 3 was a record-breaking year for the Stettler Health Services Foundation with proceeds raised close to $130,000 and still climbing.
This year’s festival of lights event which took place during the last week of November at the Stettler Community Hall had record-breaking results.
The current net proceeds from the event are close to $130,000 with the total still climbing as donations and Tribute Tree sponsorships are still coming in.
For members of the Stettler Health Services Foundation (SHSF) the support received is nothing short of phenomenal, said the Chairperson of Festival of Lights, Amy Roberts.
“It felt amazing to be back at the hall, seeing smiling faces again as we kicked off the Christmas season this year. There just isn’t a word big enough to express our gratitude,” said Roberts.
The total raised will allow SHSF to purchase a new portable ultrasound for the Stettler Hospital, said Foundation Administration Mary-Jane Jackson.
“It’s the second ultrasound there so now they will be able to have one in the ER department and one in the labour and delivery department instead of the departments having to share an ultrasound.”
Money fundraised will also be going towards completing the fundraising effort to renovate the Stettler Hospital Atrium. SHSF has committed $210,000 for the project.
“The atrium is a nice refuge for people to take their loved ones too,” said Jackson.
The renovation of the atrium is slated to start in 2023.
Pictured L-R is Katrina Taylor, Jesse McDonald and Lize-Mari DuToit who are the inaugural recipients of the Dr. Lynne McKenzie Memorial Scholarship. It is given to dedicated students currently enrolled in an Alberta Medical school and will be pursuing a career in medicine in rural Alberta. All three will receive $3000 each as they continue with their studies. Dr. McKenzie was a consummate professional who was passionate about her work in medicine. She delivered the last baby born at the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre. Right up to her retirement in December 2016 she continued to make home visits to her patients in need. Sadly Dr. McKenzie passed away in 2017 and left this endowment to further the studies of rural Alberta medical students. Stettler Health Services Foundation has been entrusted with the administration of these scholarships.
Golf Tournament 2022 a Big Success
From the Stettler Independent (Kevin Sabo) Dec. 15, 2021
Stettler’s Festival of Lights was back for 2021, albeit with some pandemic related changes. A variety of items were donated for the 2021 Stettler Festival of Lights, this year raising funds for the revitalization of the hospital atrium.
Instead of the usual week-long event featuring a pancake breakfast, senior’s teas, craft painting, and a variety of other events culminating in a gala at the Stettler Community Hall which brought friends and families together, the 2021 event was instead held mainly online.
“This year, we decided we we were just going to go online,” said committee chair Amy Roberts.
“With the way things are right now, with the vaccine passports, it's volunteers who run this and we wanted to avoid the whole issue.”
The online Festival of Lights ran through the last week of November, as an online auction, although the event did feature some real-world activities.
Those interested in catching a Christmas flick were able to head down to the Jewel Theatre which on Nov. 21 hosted the 2004 movie Christmas with the Kranks, starring Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis, with all admission money being donated back to the festival.
For those feeling crafty, the Festival of Lights committee made available a take-home craft kit from Nov. 22 to 25.
This year, the craft was was three wooden Christmas gnomes.
Outdoors, the Stettler Festival of Lights committee offered, thanks to Jim Long and his team of horses, ‘sleigh rides and burgers’ on Nov. 24 and 25.
Running between 3 and 8 p.m., the sleigh rides departed the Stettler Sports Park and ran for about 25 minutes touring the Christmas lights of a nearby part of Stettler.
The cost for the ride was $5, which people had to pre-book, and all riders were given a coupon for a free Teen Burger courtesy of A&W Stettler.
Other parts of the fundraising, such as the Tribute Tree in the hospital atrium and the quilt ticket sales, will be continuing until Dec. 24.
Up to this point, the Festival of Lights has raised around $90,000 in the 2021 campaign which is being directed toward the revitalization of the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre atrium.
“Nothing has been upgraded in there since they built the hospital,” said Roberts.
“It’s definitely not a priority for (Alberta Health Services). It needs a little love.”
According to Stan Eicchorn of the Stettler History Book Committee, the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre first opened its doors in September 1971.
The Festival of Lights, according to Roberts, has been running for over 20 years in Stettler and started as an initiative to raise money for the hospital.
Starting small, the initiative at first consisted of volunteers decorating a “few trees” in the hospital atrium, which were then auctioned off.
Over time, the scope of the event has grown with it eventually moving to the community hall and turning into the event people recognize today.
“Every year, whether we run normally or we don’t, I’m overwhelmed by the support,” said Roberts.
“We look forward to seeing everybody at the hall next year and having our events again.”
FOR A FULL LIST OF DONORS SEE THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS TAB
SMILE COOKIE CAMPAIGN A BIG SUCCESS
Thanks to everyone for your support. We’re already making plans for next year!
SMILE Cookie Special Delivery
Smile Cookie special delivery! As we head into the busy Smile Cookie weekend to close out our 25th anniversary campaign, Tim Hortons owners are working together to make sure we raise as much we can for the local charities and community groups we’re supporting.
In Alberta, Tims owners Archie Jacobs and Quinn Jacobs from Olds airlifted some Smile Cookies over to Stettler to support fellow owners Bob Carey and Kathy Lusk, who had phenomenal support from their community over the last few days.
All proceeds from the sale of Smile cookies in Stettler support the Stettler Health Services Foundation
The Stettler Hospital Services Foundation welcomed 53 golfers to the Stettler Golf and Country club on Saturday. The annual golf tournament is one of the events the foundation hosts to raise funds for improvements at the Stettler Hospital Complex.
Close to $7500.00 was raised for the proposed atrium upgrade at the Stettler Hospital.
The tournament had several sponsorships with volunteers working various special activities on most of the course's 9 holes. Heartland Auto Supply sponsored the hole in one prize on hole #6 as did Myers Norris Penny on hole #2. Other volunteers served smokies supplied by IDA Pharmacy and served shooters on a hole sponsored by Firefly Blessings.
-
MENS’ CLOSEST CHIP: John Morrison
-
WOMENS’ CLOSEST CHIP: Arlene Floyd
-
MENS’ CLOSEST TO THE BED PAN: Greg Switenky
-
WOMENS’ CLOSEST TO THE BED PAN: Carolyn Skaley
-
MEN’S CLOSEST TO THE LINE: Malcolm Fischer.
-
WOMEN’S CLOSEST TO THE LINE: Heather Zyerveld
-
MENS’ LONG DRIVE: Jeff Sutton
-
WOMENS’ LONG DRIVE: Kendice Stenlund
-
MARSHMALLOW GAME: Leo Zyerveld
-
BEST COSTUME: East Central Appraisal
-
WATER BALL: Ellion Marion
-
WINNING TEAM: Team Len Skaley
Hole in One Sponsors:
Heartland Auto & Industrial Supply
Meyers Norris Penny
Hole Sponsors:
Baker Hughes
Captain’s Construction
FlareTech Inc.
Gilbert Financial Services
Hadley Concrete
Hoopfer Insurance
Hunter Veterinary Services
Janet Balmer in memory of Wayne Balmer
Krystal Stoutenberg
Mountain Mellow
NAPA
Nixon Projects Inc.
Performance Health & Fitness Centre
Sirrom Wiring and Electrical Services Ltd.
Stettler Electric
The Co-operators
The Mortgage Centre
Wally’s Backhoe Services Ltd.
Meal Sponsors:
Councillors of the County of Stettler
Councillors of the Town of Stettler
Smokie Hole Sponsor:
Stettler IDA Drugs
Shooter Hole Sponsor:
Leona Thorogood/Firefly Blessings
Shopper’s Drug Mart
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STETTLER HEALTH CARE CENTRE OPENS RENOVATED ER
Amy commented "This was a very different year. Donations were even better than last year and nothing short of incredible. I am constantly amazed at the generosity of Stettler and surrounding areas. Thank you to the committee for being able to change plans at the last minute. We look forward to seeing everyone next year."
The annual Festival of Lights event had to change plans at last minute due to Covid19 restrictions and no events were held at the Stettler Community Hall. An online auction and art and food events that were non-contact were implemented.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tim Hortons SMILE Cookie Campaign brings $6260.00 to Stettler Hospital
September 2020
Stettler Tim Hortons held a very successful fundraiser earlier this month selling SMILE cookies for $1 each. They sold 6260 cookies with the full proceeds going towards Stettler Health Services Foundation fundraiser for ER equipment for the newly renovated Stettler Hospital. This fully funds one IV treatment chair and part of another. Five treatment chairs are being purchased in the renovation which will be completed mid-2021.
Bob Carey, Tim Hortons owner, stated “it was a pleasure to work with the SHSF members who were a great help in decorating cookies all week long. We are very happy to support such a worthwhile cause and look forward to increasing our sales of SMILE cookies next year.”
Diane Palmer, Site Manager at the Hospital, said “it’s such a good way for people to support the Hospital. We want to thank Bob and the staff of Tim Hortons, Stettler for their collaboration and hard work all week long.”
Stettler Health Services Foundation is in the midst of a $400,000 fundraising campaign for ER equipment at the Stettler Hospital. If you would like to donate to this please visit https://www.stettlerhealthfoundation.com/donate-now/
Pictured L-R is Stephanie, crew member of Tim Hortons; Diane Palmer, Site Manager of Stettler Hospital; Bob Carey, Stettler Tim Hortons Owner; Cheryl Barros, Stettler Health Foundation Board member and Ashu, Crew Member.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
February 14, 2020
STETTLER – Parents will benefit from two new labour and delivery suites built as part of a major renovation project at the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre.
The suites, which opened last week, enable mothers to stay in the same space for labour, delivery and postpartum care for the duration of their stay, with more privacy and comfort.
“I’m very pleased moms around Stettler will be able to access quality maternal care in these new suites in their community,” says Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health. “This is great news for growing families. Our government remains committed to supporting projects like this that make patients the priority.”
“I’m thrilled to see the completion of two new labour and delivery suites at the Stettler Hospital,” adds Nate Horner, MLA for Drumheller-Stettler. “This is a great investment in our community that will allow mothers in and around Stettler to receive more high-quality and timely maternity care. I can’t thank the Stettler Health Services Foundation enough for its tremendous and ongoing efforts in making this project a reality. Health foundations like the one here in Stettler make our community strong.”
The suites complete the second phase of a multi-year renovation project at the Alberta Health Services facility. The first phase, completed last October, included creation of the new pharmacy and gift shop, as well as modifications to the cafeteria. The third phase of renovations, scheduled to begin next month, will upgrade the emergency department.
“We are thrilled with the improvements to our hospital so far – with more still to come,” says Diane Palmer, site manager of the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre. “We know that these labour and delivery upgrades will improve the experience for moms, and they will provide a superior environment for the healthcare team to care for their patients.”
Funding for the three-phase, $9.3-million renovation project comes from the Government of Alberta’s Infrastructure and Maintenance Program.
Equipment and furnishings for the new labour and delivery suites were provided by the Stettler Health Services Foundation, which continues to raise funds to support the renovation project.
“The foundation is so grateful to the community for supporting parents as they welcome new babies to their families,” says foundation chair Leona Thorogood. “Our residents have provided modernized equipment and comfortable furnishings for moms in labour, and Stettler continues to step up with support for the renovations.”
To date, the foundation has raised $250,000 for renovations with plans to raise an additional $400,000 for the purchase of emergency department equipment.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Archie Lunevich presents a $30,000 cheque to Leona Thorogood, chair of Stettler Health Services Foundation
Pictured in the plaid shirt is Archie Lunevich presenting a $30,000 cheque to Leona Thorogood, chairperson of Stettler Health Services Foundation, and some of the SHSF Board.
This will be used to purchase equipment for the upcoming renovated ER department at the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre.
Archie and his wife Ila saw the recent news release about purchasing a Panda warmer for the Labour and Delivery Suites and wanted to contribute as well. This generous donation will go a long ways towards reaching the ambitious $400,000 goal the SHSF Board has set to purchase ER equipment
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Are you looking for something for that someone that doesn't need more 'stuff." How about donating to SHSF in their name? All proceeds are designated for the purchase of ER equipment in the soon-to-be renovated ER department at Stettler Hospital. For a minimum donation of $20 you will receive an immediate CRA receipt and given a card to give to your named recipient. Just visit the hospital administration office during normal business hours or go online to https://www.stettlerhealthfoundation.com/donate-now/ and write the information in the Additional Information box. We will send out the donor card to you the same day.
New labour and delivery suites ahead for Stettler
December 4, 2019
Leona Thorogood, board chair of the Stettler Health Services Foundation, stands beside a new Panda Warmer which was recently purchased for the labour and delivery area of the Stettler Hospital & Care Centre. The foundation is funding a second Panda Warmer for the space, which is currently undergoing renovation.
Moms and newborns to benefit from equipment and renovations
Story by Amelia Schofield | Photo by Tracy Kennedy
STETTLER — Renovations taking place at the Stettler Hospital & Care Centre are anticipated to help patients like Amanda Banziger and her son Lincoln receive the best possible care in their home community.
Lincoln was born on Oct. 19, 2018, with a rare syndrome called Pierre Robin Sequence (syndrome). It’s a set of abnormalities that affect the head and face, resulting in a smaller lower jaw (micrognathia), a tongue that’s placed farther back than normal (glossoptosis), cleft palate and blockage of the airways.
Lincoln’s condition made breathing difficult and, as a result, he was intubated soon after birth and transferred to Stollery Children’s Hospital.
While in Stettler, the healthcare team supported Lincoln’s breathing with a ventilator. He also benefited from the use of a Panda Warmer, which kept him warm and comfortable during intubation. The Stettler Health Services Foundation funded both pieces of equipment.
“The Panda Warmer was amazing. It kept our baby toasty warm and allowed the doctors and nurses room to work on him and also they were able to weigh him without having to move him,” says Banziger. “They also pulled the Panda Warmer to my bedside so I could hold his hand while we waited for the ambulance to arrive.”
The Stettler Hospital & Care Centre is now undergoing construction for new labour and delivery suites as part of a $9.3-million renovation project.
The suites will feature new equipment and furnishings funded by the foundation, including the addition of a second Panda Warmer and vital signs monitors which attach directly to the equipment. These new monitors will provide increased space for healthcare providers to work and improve their ability to see a baby’s vitals during treatment.
The renovation is taking place in three phases, with the labour and delivery suites included in the second phase. The recently-completed first phase saw the construction of a new pharmacy and gift shop, as well as slight modifications to the cafeteria. The third phase, slated for 2020, will include emergency department upgrades and further kitchen and cafeteria enhancements.
Diane Palmer, site manager of the Stettler Hospital & Care Centre, says patients, families, physicians, staff and volunteers will benefit from improved patient flow, increased safety, more privacy and enhanced quality of service once the renovations are complete.
“These renovations are significant and will have a range of benefits for our facility and those we care for,” she says. “Like us, I know the community will be thrilled with the final changes once this major project is complete as it will help ensure we’re able to deliver the best care possible in a safe and functional environment for years to come.”
Banziger says she’s most looking forward to the labour and delivery suites.
“I think it’s going to be such a great addition to the hospital. I think starting your labour in one room and delivering in the same room will be a much more relaxing experience, rather than being moved from one room to the next down a hallway, trying to manage machines and tubes,” she adds.
“This community deserves beautiful new labour and delivery suites. I wish I could experience it myself, honestly!”
In addition to the foundation’s $250,000 commitment toward the labour and delivery suites, the group is now raising $400,000 toward the purchase of emergency department equipment for the third phase of renovations.
Leona Thorogood, board chair of the foundation, says the community has shown tremendous support thus far, which is a testament to their commitment toward enhancing healthcare in Stettler and the surrounding area.
“We’re grateful that they believe in the Stettler Hospital & Care Centre and the level of care they receive there,” says Thorogood.
“We’re grateful that they have confidence in our system and our foundation that we invest the donations where it’s needed the most — and thankful that we have this facility in our community.”
To learn more about the Stettler Health Services Foundation and their current fundraising efforts, visit stettlerhealthfoundation.com.
A donation from the Sandra Schmirler Foundation will benefit the Stettler Health Services Foundation
Funds will purchase a vital signs monitor for the Panda warmer at the Stettler Hospital
Members of the Stettler Curling Club, Stettler Health Services Foundation Board (SHSF), Stettler Town council and Mark Birtles of the Sandra Schmirler Foundation (SSF) gathered at the Stettler Curling Rink for the ceremonial presentation of $10,000 from the SSF to SHSF.
The money was made possible through the Curling Club’s hosting of the Jiffy Lube Alberta Scottie’s ladies’ curling event last year.
It will be used entirely to purchase a vital signs monitor for the Panda warmer that newborns are put in when born at the Stettler Hospital.
October 9, 2019
The first phase of a $9.3-million renovation project at the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre is now complete with the construction of a new pharmacy and gift shop, as well as slight modifications to the cafeteria. The hospital’s first two labour and delivery suites are now being built as part of the Phase 2 renovations, which started last month. Phase 3 renovations, to begin in the new year, will include emergency department upgrades, as well as further kitchen and cafeteria enhancements. When the work is done, patients, families, physicians, staff and volunteers will benefit from improved patient flow, increased safety, more privacy and enhanced quality of service.
“It’s so gratifying to see this portion of this important work complete,” says Diane Palmer, site manager of the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre. “These renovations are significant and will have a range of benefits for our facility and those we care for. Like us, I know the community will be thrilled with the final changes once this major project is complete as it will help ensure we’re able to deliver the best care possible in a safe and functional environment for years to come.”
Funding for the project comes from the Government of Alberta’s Infrastructure and Maintenance Program.
“This ongoing project will improve the care and services at the Stettler hospital and ensure patients and families have access to modern facilities that place them at the centre of health care,” says Tyler Shandro, Alberta’s Minister of Health.
“Our government is committed to investing in capital projects like this to ensure Albertans receive quality health services in their communities, hospitals and medical facilities. Thank you to Alberta Health Services and the Stettler Health Services Foundation for working with us to strengthen Alberta’s public health system.”
The Stettler Health Services Foundation, which works with the community to make decisions about how best to allocate health related donations, is raising funds to support the renovations. To date, the foundation has raised $250,000 for equipment and furnishings for the labour and delivery suites. Now, the group is focused on raising approximately $400,000 for the purchase of emergency department equipment.
The renovation project was developed following input from 18 stakeholder groups – including physicians, staff and community members – who reviewed the hospital’s use of space and identified priority areas for improvement.
Stettler Health Services’ 2019 annual golf tournament a
Big success despite soggy weather
Pictured above is L-R the winner of best dressed team - Baby Sharks: Erin Eggleston, Angela Hopkins, Jessica Zoller and Jenna Fraser
Stettler Health Services held their annual golf tournament this past Saturday, June 22nd at the Stettler Golf and County Club.
Seventy brave golfers came out in very wet conditions to help raise money for a very worthy cause – purchase of equipment for the upcoming renovated ER department at the Stettler Hospital.
Cheryl Barros, chairperson of the tournament, commented, “I am amazed and thankful at how our community comes together to support events.
“The conditions were less than ideal but the golf course staff worked hard to get it ready for us and the people came with great attitudes which enabled a fun day to be held by all.
“With the support of the people and businesses of this community we were able to raise $6,500 for the hospital for which we are very appreciative.”
This money will go a long ways towards the ambitious $400,000 goal the Stettler Health Services Foundation has set to fund equipment for the Stettler Hospital which is now going through an extensive renovation.
MARSHALL DONATION KICKS OFF FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
Pictured with a drawing of the upcoming renovations is (L) Diane Palmer, Site Manager and (R) Leona Thorogood, Foundation Chairperson.
In a partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS) we will see vast changes to the Stettler Health Care Centre. The Stettler Health Services Foundation (SHSF) has committed to helping with the renovations by funding equipment and furnishings for the Labour and Delivery suite and the new Emergency/Trauma area. While we have raised $250,000 of these funds and set them aside for the Labour and Delivery suite, we are focused now on... expansion and upgrade of the Emergency Room. Stettler Health Services Foundation will be trying to fund in excess of $400,000 of equipment for the Emergency Room.
To kick off this fundraising effort SHSF received a $10,000 donation from Stuart and Judy Marshall. When talking with Stuart and Judy, both expressed the sentiment that they are so thankful for the care and services Stuart has received from the Stettler Hospital.
Like it or not, each of us will access this service at some point in our lives and we hope the new renovations will make the experience meet your needs. SHSF will be hosting their annual fun golf tournament on June 22 at the Stettler Golf Course with all funds raised going towards this project. As well, Festival of Lights 2019 will also support these fundraising efforts. If you would like to contribute, volunteer or support SHSF in any way please call Leona Thorogood at 403-740-9121.
In September 2018 2-year-old Sadie Harden developed flu like symptoms. After three visits to the Stettler hospital, her condition continued to worsen. Dr. Pieter Bouwer made the call to airlift Sadie by STARS to the Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton.
Once she arrived there it was discovered she had HUS (hemolytic uremic syndrome) and was in kidney failure. She spent 17 days in the Stollery and in that time she endured 4 days of blood dialysis, 5 blood transfusions and 4 days of kidney dialysis. Dr. Bouwer was in close contact with the family and the Stollery ICU team. Sadie is back in excellent health due to the great care she received in Stettler and Edmonton.
While in Edmonton a family member set up an online benefit for Sadie. The response of the Alberta Rodeo communities, Stettler and area communities, friends and family was unbelievable. In thanks the Harden family is donating back some of the funds raised: $10,000 to the Stollery Stollerific Program and $14,560.00 to the Stettler Health Services Foundation. The Harden family have also donated in Sadie’s name funds to families with sick children in need of support.
In the fall of 2018 SHSF purchased a ventilator for the emergency department with funds raised through the Stettler Festival of Lights. This cost $35,000.00. With the money donated by the Harden family SHSF is purchasing modules to add to this ventilator. It will enable the physician to ventilate newborns and children while they wait for STARS to transport to a higher level of care. The other module purchased will monitor the carbon dioxide level for all patients while being ventilated.
SHSF is very thankful to the Harden family for “giving back” to the Stettler Health Care Centre. This summer Alberta Health Services will be renovating the emergency department in Stettler and SHSF will be commencing an ambitious campaign to fund equipment for this program. Watch for further details about the “Affair for the Heart” fundraising campaign.
Ritesh Patel, left, owner of Stettler's Tim Hortons presents a $2,994 cheque to Leona Thorogood, second left, Chairperson of SHSF. Tims raised this money through the Smile cookie campaign from Sept. 17-23 during Tims national Smile Cookie campaign. SHSF will use the money for emergency room and trauma equipment in the Stettler Hospital. Also in the photo are staff from Stettler's Tim Hortons.
Amy Roberts, Chairperson of the Stettler Festival of Lights Committee is happy to announce that this year's total raised at the weeklong event held at the end of November is $109,558.00. There is still donations coming in so it's hopeful that we will top $110,000.00 at the end of the day. This brings the 21 year total raised by the Festival of Lights for the Stettler Health Services Foundation to $1,160,646.00.
Amy stated "Thank you doesn't seem like enough to say to our volunteers and sponsors. The generosity of this community is always overwhelming. We were able to surpass our goal of $85,000 for upgrades to the palliative care room, family room and comfort care room across the hall in the Stettler Health Care Centre. Now we can fund new equipment in the soon to be upgraded Emergency Room department. Because of this community's support we have a viable hospital with an Emergency department."
Last year’s Festival of Lights raised $101,232. This helped buy an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) machine for the Rochon Sands community. This machine will be housed in an external heated box outside the Rochon Sands Community Hall for use by the entire community in case of emergency. The AED machine cost $1,250. Festival of Lights funds will also pay for CPR training for the Rochon Sands community in the spring and training on the AED machine.
According to Amy Roberts, Chairperson of Stettler Festival of Lights, the event, over the last 20 years, has raised $1,051,088. Last year's money helped buy: a Stryker Power hydraulic cot and LUCAS 3 Chest Compression system for the district ambulance; 19 Accumax mattresses for acute care at the Stettler Hospital; a ventilator for the ER department and an Automated External Defibrillator for the Rochon Sands Community Hall.
Festival of Lights is celebrating its 21st year with a number of activities. On Dec. 1 is the Dine, Dance and Auction Gala with the theme of Denim and Diamonds. Area residents are invited to to dress up in their favourite denim and wear their best diamonds. Tickets went on sale Oct. 9 at Wish Kitchen and Gift on Main Street Stettler.
Clarity on hospital renos
Dear Editor,
Thank you for covering the exciting news of the renovation project for Stettler Hospital and Care Centre.
We wanted to provide some clarity and additional information on the project.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) shares the Stettler Hospital Foundation’s excitement about the phased project, and we look forward to continuing to work with the foundation to move the project forward.
As with many renovation projects at AHS facilities, the funding for the renovation project comes from the Infrastructure Maintenance Program (IMP).
AHS, Alberta Health and Alberta Infrastructure work together to identify which renovation projects will receive IMP funding.
Renovation of priority areas of the Stettler Hospital will be completed in phases over the next three years, with AHS receiving a total of $9.3 million in IMP funding.
The Stettler Hospital Foundation has committed $250,000 for part of the project.
They have also committed to doing more fundraising, for which we are extremely grateful.
Projects are prioritized based on feedback from site administration, staff, and the community, including foundations.
Eighteen user groups were engaged to review the current use of space and priority areas identified for improvement were the Emergency Department, Labour and Delivery and the facility’s kitchen.
This project has been undertaken to meet AHS’ priorities of increased access and improved quality of service.
It will achieve improved safety, access and flow, and privacy and confidentiality, for the benefit of patients, the public, physicians, staff and volunteers.
Existing space will be optimized for best value and renovations will mitigate patient impact as much as possible.
To achieve this, renovations will be completed in phases: Phase 1 starts near the end of 2018 with the cafeteria being reduced to half its size. The cafeteria will be reworked but will continue to be operational while undergoing renovations and construction of a pharmacy.
Phase 2 starts in early spring 2019. This is the construction of the Labour and Delivery department.
Phase 3 starts late 2019/early 2020 and includes the Emergency Department renovation which includes a new entrance in front of the building which improves the emergency department’s visibility, accessibility, security and workflow.
A new kitchen will be completed last.
Allan Sinclair, Senior Operating Officer,
Alberta Health Services, Central Zone
Stettler Hospital (Terri Huxley/ECA Review)
The ‘Ninja Turtles’ team participate in the Stettler Health Foundation’s Charity Golf June 1. They are, from left, Kim Connon, Red Deer nurse, Sarah Halverson, Stettler nurse, Tricia Wagner, Stettler nurse, Deacon Barclay, 11, and Katie Waine, Stettler nurse. (Lisa Joy/Stettler Independent)
Stettler Hospital pharmacy staff participate in Stettler Health Foundation’s Charity Golf June 2, including, from left, Charlotte Chase, Megan Simon, Angela Bigney and Kim Salmon. (Lisa Joy/Stettler Independent)
The Stettler Festival of Lights 2017 is in the books and the total achieved is $101,232.00.
This brings the 20 year total to $1,051,088.00 raised in Stettler and area for health care enhancements.
This amount will increase in the next few weeks as more donations and Tribute Tree donations are still coming in.
The Festival received a giant kick start with the Byemoor Hutterite Colony donating a pony that was auctioned at the Stettler Auction Mart in June and numerous buyers buying and reselling the pony to the total funds raised of $15,797.00.
This year’s funds will purchase a hydraulic cot and automatic chest compression unit for the district ambulance; 19 upgraded mattresses for the Stettler Health Care Centre, an automated external defibrillator(AED) unit for the Rochon Sands Hall and a ventilator for the ER department at the hospital.
The Festival of Lights committee is grateful for 20 years of Stettler and surrounding communities supporting their endeavors by donating, buying and coming to their events.
Stettler Regional Fire Department
During last night's practice Firefighter/Paramedic Mark Ratch introduced us to the The LUCAS® chest compression system. This system delivers high-quality, Guidelines – consistent impressions in the field, on the move and in the hospital. In this picture our test dummy, firefighter Justin Tanner, was used to demonstrate the ease of deployment without the compressions, of course!
This unit was purchased with funds provided by Stettler Festival of Lights 2017.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stettler Hospital gets Essential
Instruments Worth $35K
Seen here, from left, Gail Peterson, Lesley McDavid, Site Manager Diane Palmer, Mary-Jane Jackson, Kelly Greenwood, Sue Peterson, Amy Roberts and Griffin, Barbara Lynn Goodwin, and Suzanne Bond. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
(From Stettler Independent - August 3, 2017)
Stettler Hospital has two new trays of laparoscopy instruments for use in the operating rooms. The Stettler Hospital has two new trays of laparoscopy instruments, thanks to the Festival of Lights 2016. The instruments are for use in the operating rooms at the Stettler Hospital and came at a total cost of $35,000.Besides the funds invested from the annual Stettler event, Festival of Lights, there were numerous generous donations from community members, which made this possible.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BYEMOOR COLONY DONATES PONY TO AUCTION
TO BENEFIT FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
June 2017
We would like to take a minute to say a HUGE THANK-YOU to a group of awesome donors! Byemoor Colony organized a pony auction in support of our Stettler Festival of Lights Committee.
The total funds raised was - - $15,797.04!!!!
We've been able to put these much needed funds to use right away!! They are being used to purchase 19 Accumax VPC Mattresses to replace existing mattresses at the Stettler Hospital (Acute Care)
...
Please help us by thanking the following sponsors:
1. Byemoor Farming
2. Castor Farming
3. Donalda Colony
4. Donna and Lloyd Larsen
5. Erskine Farming
6. Gadsby Colony
7. GT Hydraulic
8. James and Marilyn Abel
9. Linda and Guy Walstrom
10. Lone Pine Colony
11. Red Willow Farming
12. Schwartz Home Building Center
13. Silver Spring Colony
14. Stettler Auction Mart
15. Suncrest Farming
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$10K Donation from Farm Credit Canada
Helps Newborns at Stettler hospital
A $10,000 donation from Farm Credit's AgriSpirit Fund has helped the Stettler Health Services Foundation purchase a new piece of equipment to help newborn infants in a medical setting.
Diane Palmer, site manager at the hospital, met with hospital foundation Treasurer Tom Campbell and Farm Credit's Lowell Befus and Tina Wraight on Wednesday, Oct. 12, to showcase the resuscitation warmer, a.k.a. panda warmer, used for newborn babies.
The panda warmer, which is one of three owned by the hospital, has a heat lamp, health monitors, and several tools to help doctors to treat newborn babies, especially those in medical distress.
"All newborns end up (on the panda warmer)," Palmer said. "But the specialized units built into it are for resuscitation."
The two older units owned by the hospital aren't anywhere near as mobile or functional as the new one, according to Palmer.
"Every donation brings us closer to our goal," Palmer said, explaining that while grants from the province help with capital costs, like repairing or modifying the physical building of the hospital, equipment purchases are made through money received from grants, donations and fundraising, like the $10,000 cheque cut by Farm Credit.
The money is necessary to bring Stettler's hospital closer to cutting edge, as it's quickly becoming a central and eastern Alberta hub hospital.
"Thirteen years ago, we had six physicians (at the hospital)," Palmer said. "Now we have 13."
Surgical procedures are increasing at the hospital, and thanks to donations that have helped the hospital upgrade equipment over the years, the hospital is one of the only ones east of Red Deer that can do cesarean sections and epidurals during labour. This means the hospital draws people from as far away as the Saskatchewan border for births.
"We have about 200 births in the hospital every year," Palmer noted, a high number for a community the size of Stettler.
"The part I like to hear about is that (the donation) helps the labour and delivery ward," Befus said as he examined the specialized table.
In addition to being able to keep newborns warm and read vitals, the table rises and lowers to help physicians and nurses tend to the newborn, is equipped with specialized tools and has a special slat for x-ray plates so the baby can be x-rayed without leaving the table.
To date, the Affair of the Heart fundraising campaign run by the foundation has raised roughly half-a-million dollars for upgraded equipment at the hospital. Palmer and Campbell said to upgrade everything on the hospital's list would cost about another million in contributions from the foundation – the remaining costs are picked up through grants and government funding.
"Farm Credit believes in its farmers and rural communities," Befus said. "We're glad to support the hospital."
